PhD Studentship: Light at the Atomic Scale: A PhD in Single-Molecule Nanophotonics

Overview

This experimental PhD position focuses on nanophotonics and plasmonics, examining how metallic nanocavities, metasurfaces, and two-dimensional materials can confine light to enhance light-matter coupling at the nanoscale. The research aims to detect mid-infrared signatures of individual molecules using molecular frequency upconversion, where molecules in a nanocavity absorb mid-infrared photons and emit visible photons for room-temperature detection. The project is part of a United Kingdom Research and Innovation Future Leaders Fellowship and takes place within the Metamaterials and Nanophotonics Research Centre at the University of Birmingham in the United Kingdom.

Who can apply

Candidates must have completed, or be close to completing, an undergraduate degree in a physical science such as Physics, Materials Science, or Physical Chemistry, ideally achieving first-class honours or an equivalent standing. The position is open to United Kingdom nationals for whom funding is available.

What you get

The successful candidate joins an active, international research group supervised by Dr Rohit Chikkaraddy. The role supports the development of an autonomous scientific profile, personal research vision, industrial connections, and academic collaborations. Specific project details are collaboratively established to align with the candidate's personal interests.

Requirements

Applicants need strong analytical and experimental capabilities. The student will construct and refine optical microscopy and spectroscopy configurations spanning from the visible to the mid-infrared spectrum, investigate thermal responses and molecular vibrations, fabricate and self-assemble plasmonic nanocavities, and examine chiral and customized nanostructures.

How to apply

Submissions require applications to be submitted alongside the project title, the supervisor name of Dr Rohit Chikkaraddy, and the Metamaterials and Nanophotonics Research Centre. Informal questions, funding specifics, and application guidance can be directed to Dr Rohit Chikkaraddy.

Key dates

The closing date for applications is January 12, 2027.