"PhD Studentship: Photonic Time–Space Correlator (PhoTiSC) for Ultra-Fast 3D Imaging & Time-Resolved Microscopy"

University of Birmingham - School of Physics and Astronomy

About the Project

Capture when and where each photon lands—build the instrument that makes it possible.

Project Overview

This PhD project focuses on developing the Photonic Time–Space Correlator (PhoTiSC)—a novel instrument that can measure both the arrival time and position of photons with exceptional precision. Current solutions for 3D imaging and time resolved microscopy are either prohibitively expensive or limited in speed and accuracy. PhoTiSC offers a cost effective alternative by combining an ultrafast timing detector with a position sensitive sensor, enabling simultaneous time–space correlation at sub nanosecond resolution.

As a PhD researcher, you will take PhoTiSC from concept to prototype: designing and integrating optical and electronic components, validating performance in the lab, and deploying the system in real experiments. This technology has applications in advanced microscopy, compact LiDAR systems, and scientific imaging, with strong potential for industrial impact and commercialisation. You will gain hands on experience in optics, high speed electronics, FPGA based readout, and data analysis, while collaborating with leading academic and industrial partners.

What You’ll Do

• Design & build a PhoTiSC demonstrator integrating ultrafast timing detectors with a novel monolithic position-sensitive detector (mPSD).
• Develop electronics and firmware for high-speed readout (FPGA/SystemVerilog optional).
• Integrate the prototype into a reaction microscope at TU Dortmund and validate performance.
• Collaborate with industry partners (Hamamatsu, Laser Components, Dstl) and present at international conferences.

Training & Environment

• Access to cleanroom/nanofabrication, advanced optical labs, and data analysis resources.
• Gain skills in experimental optics, high-speed electronics, FPGA design, and commercialisation strategy.
• Work in a supportive, collaborative group with opportunities for international travel.

Impact

• Scientific: Enable sub-nanosecond timing in imaging workflows; advance photonic instrumentation.
• Technological: Deliver a cost-effective alternative to six-figure detection systems.
• Societal: Applications in robotics, medical imaging, and defence.
• Commercial: Progress toward TRL 4–5, industry demos, and spin-out potential.

Career Prospects

Graduates will be competitive for roles in:

• Photonics R&D, LiDAR/autonomous systems, medical imaging, defence, and academic instrumentation.

You’ll leave with a portfolio of hardware prototypes, data analysis tools, and industry engagement experience.

Candidate Profile

• Degree in Physics, Electrical Engineering, or Photonics.
• Interest in instrumentation, optics, FPGA design.
• Programming (Python, SystemVerilog) is desirable, but training will be provided.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

The School of Physics and Astronomy is an Institute of Physics Juno Champion since 2014 and holder of the Athena SWAN Silver Award. Both initiatives recognise the School’s commitment to promote diversity and equality, and to encourage better practice for all members of the community, whilst also working towards developing an equitable working culture in which all students and staff can achieve their full potential. We welcome applications from all qualified applicants, and encourage applications from traditionally under-represented groups in physics and astronomy including, but not limited to, women and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic.

How to Apply

Apply via the University of Birmingham portal with:

• CV
• Academic transcripts
• 1-page statement of research interests

Start date: October 2026

Informal enquiries: Dr Andre Kaplan – a.kaplan.1@bham.ac.uk