Summary
The University of Southampton is offering a fully funded PhD studentship focused on the exploration of van der Waals semiconducting ferroelectrics. This research aims to develop programmable, energy-efficient optoelectronic devices for future computing, sensing, and quantum technologies. The successful candidate will work within the vibrant 2DMINDs research lab, gaining expertise in nanofabrication, electrical characterization, and optical spectroscopy.
PhD Scholarship: van der Waals Semiconducting Ferroelectrics for Programmable On-Chip Optoelectronics at University of Southampton
Designation
PhD Research Student
Key Scholarship Details
| Institution | University of Southampton |
| Faculty | Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences |
| Degree Type | Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) |
| Funding Status | Fully funded (UK); Bursaries/Waivers available for International students |
| Closing Date | 31 August 2027 |
| Supervisor | Dr. Soumya Sarkar |
Research Area
The project falls under the disciplines of Nanoelectronics, Materials Science, Photonics, and Integrated Optoelectronics. Specifically, it involves the study of van der Waals heterostructures and the use of switchable polarization to control light-matter interactions.
Location
Southampton, United Kingdom (Highfield Campus and Southampton Nanofabrication Centre).
Eligibility/Qualification
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- A UK 2:1 honours degree or its international equivalent in physics, electronic engineering, materials science, photonics, or a related discipline.
- A strong interest in experimental research and interdisciplinary problem-solving.
- Proficiency in English (standard university requirements apply for international students).
Scholarship Description
Optoelectronic devices, which convert electrical signals to photons and vice versa, are essential for modern communications and sensing. However, they often require continuous power to maintain their configuration. This project investigates ferroelectric materials as an alternative, utilizing their electrically switchable polarization to enable nonvolatile optical functionality.
As a PhD researcher, you will:
- Investigate how polarization in van der Waals ferroelectrics controls optical properties.
- Fabricate advanced devices in the Southampton Nanofabrication Centre.
- Perform device characterization, assessing photoresponse, luminescence, switching energy, and endurance.
- Contribute to emerging technologies that bridge the gap between electronic memory and light.
The project is hosted within the Sustainable Electronic Technologies research group and is affiliated with the ECS Centre for Neuromorphic Technologies.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should follow these steps to apply through the University of Southampton application portal:
- Visit the official application system and choose Programme Type: Research.
- Select the 2027/28 academic year and the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences.
- Search for the programme: PhD Electronic & Electrical Engineering (7092).
- In Section 2 of the application, explicitly name Dr. Soumya Sarkar as the intended supervisor.
Required Documents:
- Research proposal
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Two academic references
- Degree transcripts and certificates
- English language qualification (if applicable)
For an initial conversation regarding the project, you may contact Dr. Soumya Sarkar at soumya.sarkar@soton.ac.uk.
Last Date for Apply
The closing date for applications is 31 August 2027. Funding is awarded on a rolling basis, so early application is strongly encouraged.
