PhD Studentship: Metasurfaces for Molecular Spectroscopy

Applications are invited for a PhD position in metamaterials and Molecular Spectroscopy. This experimental project will involve the development of hybrid metasurfaces and the exploration of their molecular dynamics using spectroscopic techniques for exotic light-material coupling [1-4]. Applicants should have completed (or closer to completion) their undergraduate degree in Physics, Chemistry, Material Science or related Physical Science disciplines (preferably with first-class honours or equivalent). Strong analytical and experimental skills are desirable. The project's specifics will be determined in collaboration with the successful candidate, tailoring the research to their interests. The project will be conducted within the research group led by Dr. Rohit Chikkaraddy (www.birmingham.ac.uk/staff/profiles/physics/chikkaraddy-rohit.aspx), based at the Metamaterials and Nanophotonics Research Centre (www.birmingham.ac.uk/research/activity/physics/quantum/metamaterials/index.aspx) in the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Birmingham, UK. The work will comprise different fabrication techniques to develop metasurfaces and integrate them with plasmonic nanocavities and the elucidation of their light emission characteristics. The thesis is strongly multidisciplinary, and applications are welcome from candidates with backgrounds in materials, chemistry, and/or physics. This research is conducted in collaboration with international partners, and the candidate's focus can be adjusted according to their interests and preferences. You will join a vibrant, international laboratory environment and receive support in developing your personal vision and an autonomous scientific profile, as well as possible industrial links and scientific collaborations. The University is actively committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applicants from all sections of society. In line with the Department’s Athena SWAN programme, we particularly encourage female candidates to apply. For information on available funding, application guidance, or any other informal inquiries, please contact Dr. Rohit Chikkaraddy at r.chikkaraddy@bham.ac.uk. To apply, please use this link (sits.bham.ac.uk/lpages/EPS005.htm) and clearly specify the project's title, the name of the supervisor (Dr. Rohit Chikkaraddy), and the Metamaterials and Nanophotonics Research Centre. The application deadline is January 18th, 2024. Funding, awarded on a competitive basis, is available to UK/EU nationals, covering tuition fees and living stipend for 3.5 years. Non-EU candidates with the appropriate qualifications will be considered for competitive scholarships/funding. References: 1. R. Chikkaraddy, et al. "Single-molecule mid-infrared spectroscopy and detection through vibrationally assisted luminescence", Nature Photonics 17, 865–871 (2023). 2. R. Chikkaraddy, et al. "Mid-infrared-perturbed molecular vibrational signatures in plasmonic nanocavities". Light: Science & Applications, 11, 19 (2022). 3. A. Xomalis, X. Zheng, R. Chikkaraddy, et al. "Detecting mid-infrared light by molecular frequency upconversion in dual-wavelength nanoantennas". Science, 374, 1268 (2021). 4. R. Chikkaraddy, et al. "Single-molecule strong coupling at room temperature in plasmonic nanocavities", Nature, 535, 127 (2016).