PhD Studentship

PhD Project: Coherent Detection of Terahertz Quantum Cascade Lasers for Imaging Applications

The terahertz (THz)-frequency quantum cascade laser (QCL) is a high-power source of THz radiation that has attracted significant interest for the development of imaging, sensing and spectroscopy systems across a diverse range of applications including biomedicine, industrial process monitoring, and chemical sensing.

This EPSRC-funded PhD project aims to develop and investigate techniques for the coherent (i.e. phase-sensitive) detection of THz radiation emitted by QCLs, and to apply these techniques to the development of THz imaging and sensing systems. Two possible approaches will be investigated: sensing the THz radiation by making use of the self-mixing effect whereby radiation is injected back into the QCL device; and/or sensing the interaction of the THz radiation with an electro-optic crystal using visible lasers. The chosen technique will then be applied to the development of imaging systems using THz QCL sources.

The studentship will involve experimental research in the fields of laser physics, optics and electronics, underpinned by a strong theoretical understanding. It is suitable for a motivated student with a good degree in physics, electronic/electrical engineering, or a related discipline. The successful candidate will work as part of an experienced and vibrant research team in the field of THz science and technology.

The School of Electronic and Electrical Engineering at Leeds was ranked top for Electronic and Electrical Engineering in the UK in the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise. The research will be undertaken in the Institute of Microwaves and Photonics, which comprises over 60 people, including 16 academic staff. It has an international reputation for research on semiconductor optoelectronic devices, and microwave circuits and systems, with particular expertise in the design, growth and fabrication of THz QCLs, and the development of THz QCL-based systems.

Value: The studentship will fund tuition fees at either UK/EU level and a tax free maintenance grant of £13,590 p/a for 3.5 years (subject to satisfactory performance), and is available for tenure from 1st October 2012.

Number of awards: 1

Entry requirements:Candidates should have at least an upper second class (2:1) undergraduate honours degree (or equivalent) in physics, electronic/electrical engineering, or a related discipline.

Applicants are expected to have good experimental, mathematical and software skills. Experience in lasers and optics would be beneficial.

If English is not your first language, then candidates must also meet the University’s English language requirements.

Supervisor: Dr Paul Dean

Application deadline: 13 April 2012

Further information: For informal enquiries please contact Dr Paul Dean by email p.dean@leeds.ac.uk

Please indicate that you are interested in these particular PhD positions in section G of the application form.

How to apply: Formal applications for research degree study should be made on-line through the University's website. Please state clearly on the funding section of the application form that you wish to be considered for the “Coherent detection of terahertz quantum cascade lasers for imaging applications” scholarship. In the research information section please state the name Dr Paul Dean. The closing date for applications is 13 April 2012 with a commencement date of 1st October 2012 anticipated.

Please upload all the documents required as soon as possible. Scanned copies are acceptable though you will need to provide originals or certified copies at registration. These will include your degree certificate(s), transcripts of marks achieved in previous degrees, plus evidence of English language qualifications if your first language is not English and you do not hold a degree from an English-speaking country. Please do not provide school certificates, or non-academic certificates.

The Faculty will contact your named academic referees directly.

If you have any questions please contact our Graduate School Office.
e: phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk
t: +44 (0)113 343 8000