Research Fellow in Topological Photonics

Cyber Security Academy Southampton; Southampton; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Athena Swan Bronze Award

Flexible/hybrid/part-time working

Generous holiday allowance

USS pension

Job summary

The University of Southampton invites applications for a Research Fellow in Topological Photonics within the Optoelectronics Research Centre. You will develop novel topological photonic crystals/metamaterials for terahertz state control in wireless communications, funded by the Royal Society.

We seek a PhD holder (or near completion) with proven expertise in photonic crystals/metamaterials, strong problem‑solving, and a track record of publications.

Qualifications

• PhD in Physics/Optical Engineering or related field (or nearing completion).
• Proven knowledge in photonic crystals/metamaterials.
• Strong problem-solving, self-motivation, and collaboration in multidisciplinary teams.
• Solid track record of peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

Responsibilities

• Develop novel topological photonic crystals/metamaterials for light control.
• Work on reconfigurable terahertz topological states for wireless applications.
• Collaborate within an interdisciplinary ORC research group.

Skills

Photonic crystals

Metamaterials

Research dissemination

Multidisciplinary collaboration

Education

PhD in Physics/Optical Engineering or related field

Tools

Micro/nanofabrication tools

FEM/EM modelling software

Job description

Research Fellow in Topological Photonics

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 1 st 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.

Working at the University of Southampton:

As a university we aim to create an environment where everyone can thrive and are proactive in fostering a culture of inclusion, respect and equality of opportunity. We believe that we can only truly meet our objectives if we are reflective of society, so we are passionate about creating a working environment in which you are free to bring your whole self to work. With a generous holiday allowance as well as additional university closure days we are committed to supporting our staff and students and open to a flexible working approach.