van der Waals semiconducting ferroelectrics for programmable on-chip optoelectronics

About the project

This PhD project explores van der Waals semiconducting ferroelectrics for programmable, energy-efficient optoelectronic devices. Combining nanofabrication, electrical characterisation and optical spectroscopy, you will investigate how switchable polarisation controls light–matter interactions, aiming to enable nonvolatile optical functionality for future computing, sensing and quantum technologies with reduced power.

This PhD project at the University of Southampton will explore van der Waals ferroelectrics for electrically programmable, energy-efficient integrated optoelectronic devices.

Optoelectronic devices can convert electrical signals to photons and vice versa, with applications in communications, sensing and quantum technologies. However, maintaining their optical configuration often requires continuous electrical power. Ferroelectric materials offer an exciting alternative as their electrically switchable polarisation can persist after the applied voltage is removed. The emerging family of semiconducting van der Waals ferroelectrics hosts strong light-matter interactions, potentially enabling optoelectronic devices with reduced standby energy consumption.

You will investigate how polarisation in van der Waals ferroelectrics can control its optical properties, both within these materials and in heterostructures. Key questions include how interfaces, material thickness and ferroelectric domains influence light-matter interactions, switching behaviour and stability.

The research will combine assembly of van der Waals heterostructures, nanofabrication, electrical measurements and optical spectroscopy. You will fabricate devices in the Southampton Nanofabrication Centre and develop skills spanning materials science, nanoelectronics and integrated photonics. Device characterisation will assess optical contrast, photoresponse, luminescence, switching energy, retention and endurance, establishing opportunities and limitations for practical integration.

You will join the vibrant 2DMINDs research lab within the Sustainable Electronic Technologies research group and be affiliated to the ECS Centre for Neuromorphic Technologies , and contribute to emerging technologies connecting electronic memory with light.

The School of Electronics and Computer Science 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.

Dr Soumya Sarkar

• Device materials and related physics
• Nanoelectronic, spintronic and nanophotonic device fabrication and characterization
• Atomically thin semiconductors, thin film oxides, ferroelectrics

Entry requirements

A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent in one of the following:

An interest in experimental research and interdisciplinary problem-solving is essential.

• physics
• electronic engineering
• materials science
• photonics
• or related disciplines

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:

Applications should include:

• choose programme type (Research), 2027/28, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
• select Full time or Part time
• search for programme PhD Electronic & Electrical Engineering (7092)
• add name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application
• research proposal
• your CV (resumé)
• 2 academic references
• degree transcripts and certificates to date
• English language qualification (if applicable)

Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences

For questions about applying, email our Doctoral College (doctoralcollege-admissions@soton.ac.uk) .

Project leader

For an initial conversation, email Dr Soumya Sarkar (soumya.sarkar@soton.ac.uk).

Research areas