Modelling of innovative optical designs for novel sensor systems

This MSc by Research project (with possible extension to PhD) will be concerned with studying and modelling the behaviour of innovative optical designs.  The project will allow the student to acquire expertise in optical modelling tools and techniques for novel sensing systems within the electro-optical and infrared (EOIR) regions of the electromagnetic spectrum.

This MSc by Research project (with possible extension to PhD) will be concerned with studying and modelling the behaviour of innovative optical designs.  The project will allow the student to acquire expertise in optical modelling tools and techniques for novel sensing systems within the electro-optical and infrared (EOIR) regions of the electromagnetic spectrum.

The main objectives of this project are:

• Investigate the performance of innovative optical designs using existing optical modelling tools and techniques

• Understand changes within the design that impact the system performance

• Modify the existing models as appropriate to adequately describe likely performance outcomes

If the project is extended to a PhD the investigation will likely be extended into an experimental stage to help validate and verify the modelled sensing systems performance.

Our partner, Dstl, is a proven national asset and an executive agency of the Ministry of Defence (MOD) providing world class expertise and delivering cutting-edge science and technology for the benefit of the nation and its allies. Dstl is one of the principal government organisations dedicated to science and technology in the defence and security field. Dstl supplies specialist services to MOD and wider government, working collaboratively with external partners in industry and academia worldwide, providing expert research, specialist advice and invaluable operational support. Dstl is innovative, collaborative and impactful.

The student will be physically located at Cranfield Defence and Security (CDS) which is located at Shrivenham and will be part of the research community within the Centre for Electronic Warfare Information and Cyber. 

CDS provide unique educational opportunities to the Defence and Security sectors of both public and private sector organisations. Based at the UK Defence Academy at Shrivenham in Oxfordshire, CDS is the academic provider to the UK Ministry of Defence for postgraduate education at the Defence Academy, training in engineering, science, acquisition, management and leadership.

To be eligible for these funding, applicants must be a UK citizen and pass a baseline personnel security standard (BPSS) check.

This is a DSTL funded project. Funding will cover tuition fees, the purchase of a laptop and a stipend set at the £20,000pa.  Funds will be available for travel to DSTL as required. 

Applicants should have a a minimum of an upper Second Class UK Honours degree or international equivalent in a relevant science or engineering discipline.