Non-Hermitian topological physics

About the project

About the Project Supervisory Team: Dr Dong-Yang WANG This project will be focusing on the research on non-Hermitian topological physics. Frontier research topics of exceptional point/surfaces, non-Hermitian skin effect, and catastrophe theory will be pursued. Topological band theory serves as a fundamental framework to generate new phase of matter with novel material properties. Topological physics has thus rendered direct impact in many research categories, such as materials science, photonics, acoustics, and electronics. Non-Hermitian physics involves the gain/loss ingredients as in general practical physical systems, where the extra degrees of freedom in the system eigenmodes promise fruitful topological physics beyond Hermitian systems. This project will be exploring the topological physics in a non-Hermitian context, where the topological phase transition, band gap topology, and momentum space singularities will be extensively investigated. The research will majorly focus on theoretical investigations, experimental demonstration through topological electrical circuit will also be pursued. Entry requirements A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent in physics or mathematics. You are expected to have strong background and research interest in physics and mathematics. Knowledge in electrical circuits will also be helpful. Fees and funding We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students. Horizon Europe fee waivers automatically cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for qualifying students. Competition-based Presidential Bursaries from the University cover the difference between overseas and UK fees for top-ranked applicants. Competition-based studentships offered by our schools typically cover UK-level tuition fees and a stipend for living costs for top-ranked applicants. Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered. For more information, please visit our postgraduate research funding pages. How to apply Apply now 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 ORC (7097) add name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application Applications should include: research proposal your CV (resumé) 2 academic references degree transcripts and certificates to date English language qualification (if applicable) Contact us Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences If you have a general question, feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk . Project leader For an initial conversation, d.y.wang@soton.ac.uk The School of Optoelectronics (ORC) is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.

Research areas