Ultrafast microscopy of quantum materials

In some materials, quantum effects are so strong that they can dominate how light interacts with matter. A well-known example is the exciton, which is created when an electron and a hole bind to form a new type of particle, referred to as quasiparticle. Yet, this is only one of many different quasiparticles that emerge when light interacts with matter. These emergent quasiparticles are very important because they have countless applications for sensing, quantum information and communications. However, to become useful we need to first better understand their fundamental internal structure. One of the most direct ways to do this is to measure experimentally how they evolve on their natural timescales (~10s-100s of femtoseconds) using ultrafast microscopy.

This PhD project will focus on developing the necessary experimental methods to unveil these dynamics, using deep-subwavelength ultrafast and terahertz (10^12 Hz) spectroscopy. This unique experimental platform will provide fundamental new insights into ultrafast dynamics in these quantum materials.

The PhD candidate should have completed (or about to complete) their undergraduate degree in Physics, or a closely related subject, with at least a 2:1. Ideally you will have an interest in Optics, Lasers and Materials Science.

The project will take place in the group of Dr Tom Siday (https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/staff/profiles/physics/siday-thomas), part of the Metamaterials and Nanophotonics group (https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/research/activity/physics/quantum/metamaterials/index.aspx) in the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Birmingham. There will also be opportunities to collaborate closely with several external universities such as Oxford, UCL and Regensburg (Germany).

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.

You can apply here: https://sits.bham.ac.uk/lpages/EPS005.htm, clearly stating the name of the supervisor (Dr. Tom Siday), the title of the project and the Metamaterials and Nanophotonics group.

Funding notes:

Funding is awarded on competitive basis, and it will cover tuition fees and living stipend for 3.5 years.

For details of the funding available, advice on making your application or any other informal enquiries, please contact Dr Tom Siday at: t.siday@bham.ac.uk

References:

M. Plankl et al., Nature Photon. 15, 594–600 (2021)

T. Siday et al., Nano Lett. 22, 2561-2568 (2022)