Research Fellow in Topological Photonics

1000scholars; Southampton; On-site; GBP 37,000 - 45,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous holiday entitlement

USS pension

Health and fitness facilities

Mentoring schemes

Job summary

University of Southampton seeks an outstanding researcher to develop novel topological photonic crystals and metamaterials for efficient light control. This Royal Society–sponsored project targets reconfigurable terahertz topological states for next‑gen wireless applications.

The role is in the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC), joining a diverse team with access to world-class facilities, mentoring, and flexible working arrangements. Salary scales apply; closing 2028-11-30.

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent in Physics/Optical Engineering or related field.
• Proven ability to progress research ideas from concept to dissemination.
• Strong problem-solving and collaborative skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop novel topological photonic crystals and metamaterials for efficient light control.
• Contribute to experimental and computational studies within a multidisciplinary team.
• Disseminate findings through publications and conference presentations.

Skills

Problem-solving

Collaboration

Research dissemination

Education

PhD or equivalent (Physics/Optical Engineering)

Job description

We are seeking an outstanding, creative researcher with the skills to develop novel topological photonic crystal/metamaterials for efficient light control. Our project - sponsored by the Royal Society – aims to deliver the reconfigurable terahertz topological states for the application in the next generation of wireless communications.

To be successful in this role, you will have:

• a PhD or equivalent qualification (or be nearing completion thereof) in Physics/Optical Engineering or another subject relevant to the study, development and/or application of topological photonic materials;


• proven practical knowledge and expertise in the field of photonic crystals/metamaterials;


• strong problem-solving skills, self-motivation, and an ability to collaborate in multidisciplinary teams;


• a strong track record of research dissemination through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

It will be advantageous, but not essential, to have recent experience in one or more of:

• the use of micro/nanofabrication and materials characterization tools;


• computational multi-physics/electromagnetics modelling and eigenmode analysis for photonic crystals;


• terahertz/microwave far-field spectra measurements or near-field scanning.

In this role, you will join an interdisciplinary research group at the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC), with interests ranging from nanophotonics, metrology, metamaterials, and topological photonics.

The ORC is proud to hold an Athena Swan Bronze Award, recognising our support for the advancement of women in science. Our diverse community encompasses over 49 nationalities, and we offer a range of initiatives to support personal and professional growth, including mentoring schemes, an Early Career Researchers Forum, and the Women in Optics group. We also offer flexible, hybrid, and part-time working arrangements to help meet individual needs.

As well as a world-class research environment, we offer benefits including a generous holiday allowance, access to the Universities Superannuation Scheme (USS), and subsidised health and fitness facilities.

This is a full-time fixed-term position until 30 November 2028 from 1st of December 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.

The post is available at the level of Research Fellow, with specific salary scale depending on the experience.

For informal enquiries, please write to Dr Dongyang Wang ([e-mail]).

Working at the University of Southampton:

Check out the staff benefits and why you should join us at The University of Southampton.

Further details:

Job Description and Person Specification

£36,636 to £44,746 per annum