About the project
This PhD project will focus on developing cutting-edge optical fibre amplifier technologies designed to reduce power use, lower the cost-per-bit, and enhance overall data capacity.
Optical fibre networks form the backbone for the internet, transmitting 99% of the world’s data at the speed of light and playing a critical role in the digital transformation of our society and economy. However, the environmental impact of the internet is significant, accounting for ~10% of the world’s total electricity consumption and 3.7% of global CO2 emissions. As data traffic continues to grow, there is an urgent need for energy-efficient technologies to support green optical communications.
A key contributor to power consumption in telecommunication networks is optical fibre amplifiers, which is essential for boosting signals every 80-100 km in long-haul transmission systems. In subsea networks, power consumption directly limits data capacity, making energy-efficient amplifiers critical.
Central to this research is Space Division Multiplexing (SDM), a technique that utilizes multiple channels (e.g. multiple cores within a single fibre) to improve optical amplification efficiency.
Our research team has been a leader in SDM technology, contributing to several landmark EU and UK projects. Our notable achievements include:
- developing the world’s first multimode erbium-doped fibre amplifiers
- setting a GUINNESS World Record for SDM transmission
- winning the prestigious EU HORIZON prize for overcoming the optical transmission barrier
- successfully commercializing SDM amplifier technology
This project offers a balance of simulation and experimental work, providing the successful candidate with the opportunity to join a globally recognized research group equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories.
The candidate will also have the chance to collaborate with industrial partners, ensuring that their work drives real-world impact through innovation in energy-efficient optical communications.
Research Environment
You’ll be part of the Pulsed Fibre Laser Group (~10 researchers) within the world-leading Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC). This dynamic and collaborative environment provides access to cutting-edge facilities, mentorship from academic experts, and engagement with industrial partners. You’ll work on ground-breaking research with real-world impacts, particularly in optical communications.
Join Us
If you’re passionate about contributing to the future of optical communication technology and eager to explore the advanced optical components and amplifiers, we invite you to apply and embark on an exciting journey of innovation and discovery.
