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Integrated photonics is a major emerging technological field with the potential for massive impact on the biomedical, security, defence, transportation, telecoms and other sectors. Specifically, integrated high-Q optical microresonators could form the basis for a vast array of new devices including handheld optical clocks, trace gas detectors, ultraprecise lidar, narrow-linewidth lasers, low-noise microwave sources, biosensors, gyroscopes and optical data transmitters.
The role
This project addresses two of the main challenges in bringing such devices to fruition: achieving ultra-high-Q waveguide ring resonators and integrating these with semiconductor lasers on the same chip. The project will focus on developing silicon nitride waveguide ring resonators with Q factors approaching 108 and above, building upon the latest and most advanced techniques for deposition, nanolithography and etching, and modelling the waveguide geometry to optimise dispersion.
The resonators will then be used for frequency comb generation, with emphasis on self-referenced octave-spanning combs for optical clocks and dual-comb spectroscopy. For the first half of their project, the student will be based primarily at the James Watt Nanofabrication Centre at the University of Glasgow. This is a world-leading cleanroom facility where the student will have access to a comprehensive range of cutting-edge equipment for growing, etching, imaging and characterising integrated photonics devices on both III-V and silicon platforms, all supported by full-time technical staff. Here, they will develop and hone the process of fabricating silicon nitride waveguide ring resonators on silicon wafers, from growing and depositing silica and silicon nitride all the way through to patterning, etching and polishing, with the aim of achieving very high Q factors.
They will also be able to build upon considerable in-house experience in working towards integrating III-V semiconductor laser sources with the resonators. During the remainder of their project and short trips before that, the student will work at the National Physical Laboratory within the Time and Frequency Department, where they will use the resonators to generate frequency combs. They will have access to two laboratories and a cleanroom that are fully equipped for these purposes. They will also benefit from close collaboration with NPL experts in optical frequency metrology and gas spectroscopy.
The student will be co-supervised by Prof. Marc Sorel at the University of Glasgow, a leading expert in integrated optics, silicon photonics and semiconductor lasers, and by Dr Jonathan Silver, who leads NPL’s Microphotonics activities. The successful applicant will have access to the professional training courses and support offered by NPL’s Postgraduate Institute for Measurement Science (PGI) and Glasgow’s Doctoral Research Training.
About You
Successful candidates are expected to have a bachelor’s degree in physics, engineering or a similar subject with class 2:1 (or equivalent) or above. A master’s degree is preferable but not essential and previous research experience is greatly valued. The project includes the design, modelling, fabrication and characterisation of photonics devices and systems. The students will also be expected to engage with the UK Quantum Technology Programme, including collaborative working and networking activities with other UK Universities, industry and government agencies.
About Us
The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK.
NPL and BEIS have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.
At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we hold memberships and accreditations to ensure we’re creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome, please see our Diversity & Inclusion page.
We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of benefits. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success.
To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we’re always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.
