PhD Studentship: Optimisation of Antiresonant Hollow Core Fibres for Quantum Computing, Communications and Memories

Supervisory Team: Prof Francesco Poletti, Dr Ghafour Amouzad Mahdiraji, Prof Radan Slavik 

Project description:

The University of Southampton is expanding its PhD research in the area of Quantum Technology Engineering. In addition to the research project outlined below, you will receive substantial training in scientific, technical, and commercial skills. 

The project focuses on the development of state-of-the-art hollow core fibres (HCFs), a promising technology that could revolutionise the physical layer of optical communication. Unlike conventional optical fibres, which achieve ultralow transmission loss only in a narrow spectral region where the glass is ultra-transparent, HCFs guide light through air, allowing for potentially ultralow propagation loss at any desired wavelength. 

These custom fibres can be optimised to operate at specific wavelengths used for example by ion traps, diamond NV centres, and semiconductor quantum dots. Furthermore, the absence of detrimental nonlinear optical effects in HCFs enables the simultaneous propagation of classical signals and single photon quantum signals within the same spectral band. 

This project is supported by and in collaboration with Microsoft Azure Fiber. The aim is to design and produce optimised HCFs tailored for various quantum applications. Increasing the data transmission security within the Azure datacentre network will be one of the main tasks. In addition, collaborations with key existing application partners in the main UK and European quantum labs will be exploited to develop ground-breaking demonstrations in quantum key distribution, quantum sensing, entangled state transmission, and quantum computing. 

This initiative represents a significant step forward in the practical application of quantum technologies, potentially leading to advancements in secure communication, precise sensing, and powerful computation. It underscores the University of Southampton’s commitment to pioneering research and innovation in Quantum Technology Engineering. Direct link with the nearby Microsoft Azure Fiber labs will offer the opportunity to see a direct impact of the research developed in the project, and a direct connection to a potential future employer. 

If you are interested, please contact the supervisor for more information: Francesco Poletti [email protected]   

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent). 

Closing date : 31 August 2024. Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified. 

Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships. For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of Southampton   Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered. 

How To Apply

You should submit your completed online application form by clicking the ‘Apply’ button above. Select programme type (Research), 2024/25, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD ORC (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Prof Francesco Poletti 

Applications should include:

• Research Proposal
• Curriculum Vitae
• Two reference letters
• Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date 

For further information please contact: [email protected]