2026 University of Southampton Scholarship in Quantum Nano-optical Metadevices

Controlling nanoscale light−matter interactions will be foundational for advanced quantum nanophotonic devices, including optically/electrically pumped light sources, switches, modulators, and photodetectors. In this project we will engineer coupling of quantum emitters, such as quantum dots, atomic defects in 2D materials or Moiré superlattices, to metasurfaces for future monolithic chips with indistinguishable emitters.

Engineering light−matter interactions will be foundational for advanced quantum nanophotonic devices. A motivation that drives this research field is the industry demand for monolithic integration of photonics and optoelectronics to achieve all-optical interconnects, photonic logic gates, and quantum networks.

This next generation photonic systems requires advances that allow, for example, the precise placement of quantum emitters, such as quantum dots, atomic defects in 2D materials or Moiré superlattices, into photonic cavities.

During the project you'll explore metasurfaces as optical cavities to study phenomena like coupling multiple quantum emitters for indistinguishability or fostering strong or ultrastrong light−matter interactions for tuning nonlinear interactions. You'll do it through a blend of experimental activities, theoretical analysis and numerical modelling.

You'll join the ORC, a world-leading photonics research organization, and collaborate closely with students, researchers and academic experts. You'll be encouraged to take initiative, develop and test your own ideas. You'll have the opportunity to engage in collaborations, research meetings and to present your work at major international conferences. Your research is expected to generate several papers in leading academic journals and contribute to shaping the future of this exciting field.

As you progress through the project, you'll gain highly transferable skills in cleanroom nanofabrication, photonic and optoelectronic materials, device design, manufacturing and characterisation, numerical simulations. You'll also explore new concepts and play an active role in shaping innovative ideas. This experience will prepare you for opportunities in academia and industry.

Find out more about our postgraduate research in Photonics and Optoelectronics. 

• Table of Content
• About University of Southampton
• University of Southampton Postgraduate Scholarship
• Aim and Benefits of University of Southampton Postgraduate Scholarship
• Requirements for University of Southampton Postgraduate Scholarship Qualification
• Application Deadline
• How to Apply

University of Southampton Postgraduate Scholarship

Aim and Benefits of University of Southampton Postgraduate Scholarship

• Funding is on a competitive basis and within the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Quantum Technology Engineering at the University of Southampton. 
• UK students receive a 4 year UKRI TechExpert tax-free stipend of around £31k per year (UKRI minimum +£10k). 
• Studentships at the UKRI minimum rate are available for EU and Horizon Europe students and International students. Overseas students who have or are seeking external funding are welcome to apply. 
• While researching your project, you will also receive substantial training in scientific, technical, and commercial skills.

Requirements for University of Southampton Postgraduate Scholarship Qualification

• You must have a UK 2:1 honours degree or its international equivalent.

Application Deadline

How to Apply

You need to:

• choose programme type (Research), 2026/27, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
• select Full time or Part time
• search for programme PhD Quantum Tech Eng
• add name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application

Applications should include:

• your CV (resumé)
• 2 academic references
• degree transcripts and certificates to date
• English language qualification (if applicable)

Supervisors: Potential Supervisors.

Contacts:

• Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences

  • If you have a general question, email our doctoral college ([email protected]).

• Project leader

  • For an initial conversation, email Dr Giorgio Adamo ([email protected]).

For more information, kindly visit University of Southampton webpage.