Super-resolution imaging and metrology with quantum light detectors

About the project

Super-resolution imaging and metrology now routinely break the classical optical diffraction limit. Leveraging recent advances in subwavelength control of light, metamaterials, information theory and artificial intelligence, this project will investigate the use of quantum light and quantum detectors in scenarios where classical light and its detection fail.

Optical imaging and metrology become increasingly difficult at the nanoscale, where objects, their dimensions, shapes, positions and displacements, are much smaller than the wavelength of light. Despite recent remarkable advances in label-free deep-subwavelength imaging and metrology, there are scenarios where classical methods do not perform satisfactorily or cannot be applied, and the use of non-classical light and single-photon detectors and detector arrays is necessary.

In this project you'll explore the use of single-photon detectors and detector arrays, in conjunction with non-classical light, to push the boundaries of deep-subwavelength label-free imaging and metrology. This might allow, for example, to sample the diffraction pattern of nanoscale objects interacting with single photons, to identify photon correlations within the scattered light patterns, or to infer three-dimensional information of an object from temporal correlations between entangled photons interacting with it. You'll do it through a blend of experimental activities, theoretical analysis and numerical modelling.

You'll join the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) , a world-leading photonics research organization, and collaborate closely with students, researchers and academic experts. You'll be encouraged to take initiative, develop and test your own ideas. You'll engage in collaborations, research meetings and present your work at major international conferences. Your research is expected to generate several papers in leading academic journals and contribute to shaping the future of this exciting field.

You'll gain transferable skills in experimental photonics, computational electromagnetic modelling, nanofabrication, machine learning, and electron and optical microscopy, preparing you for opportunities in academia and industry.

Dr Giorgio Adamo

• nanophotonics and super-resolution microscopy
• light–matter interactions in advanced nano-optoelectronic systems and their visualization at deep subwavelength scales

Supervisors

• Supervisors: Professor Kevin Macdonald Professor of Photonics

Professor Kevin Macdonald

• Professor Kevin Macdonald: Professor of Photonics

Entry requirements

You must have at least a UK 2:1 honours degree or its international equivalent .

Fees and funding

Funding is available on a competitive basis through the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Quantum Technology Engineering at the University of Southampton.

UK students receive a 4 year UKRI TechFirst tax-free stipend of £30,000 per year. Studentships at the UKRI minimum rate are available for EU, Horizon Europe and International students.

Overseas students who have or are seeking external funding are welcome to apply.

While undertaking your research project, you'll also receive substantial training in scientific, technical and commercial skills.

How to apply

Apply now

Please apply via the online portal and select:

Applications should include:

• Academic year: 2027/28
• If you will be full time or part time
• Faculty: Engineering and Physical Sciences
• Search for PhD Quantum Tech Eng
• Add the name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application
• your CV (resumé)
• 2 academic references
• degree transcripts and certificates to date

Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences

For questions about applying, email the Centre for Doctoral Training in Quantum Technology Engineering (qte@soton.ac.uk) .

Project leader

For an initial conversation, email Dr Giorgio Adamo (G.Adamo@soton.ac.uk) .

Research areas