Research Fellow in Polaritonics

Recently we proposed polariton lattices as a new platform for analogue simulation. Polariton lattices benefit by the continuous optical readout of the phase, energy, momentum and spin of the individual polariton vertices, the strong inter-particle interactions −mediated through the exciton component-, room temperature operation −with appropriate choice of materials-, and even the potential for electrical injection, utilizing well-developed semiconductor technologies.

Inverse scattering problems, namely reconstructing the shape of objects from their scattered intensity distributions occur in many fields of science and technology, such as tomographic imaging (MRI, CT scan), seismology, single shot X-ray scattering and imaging. Solving the inverse scattering problem, in cases where all the phase information is lost, is generally very difficult. This difficulty is alleviated by resorting to some a priori knowledge such as the boundaries within which the object lies (compact support), sparsity or other spatial features. Under such restrictions, it is possible to reconstruct the object using iterative algorithms, such as the well-known Gerchberg-Saxton algorithm. Unfortunately, the algorithms are time consuming and do not always converge to the right solution even with advanced computational resources. In this project, we will design and realise a polariton simulator to address inverse scattering problems with the aim to demonstrate solutions within the coherence lifetime of the polariton condensates (10ths of picoseconds; 6-9 orders of magnitude faster than current supercomputers).

Along with a PhD* in Physics or relevant engineering background, you will have a strong background in fundamental physics, optics, inverse problems, quantum, laser and semiconductor physics, and expertise in experimental photonics, and advanced spectroscopies.

*Applications for Research Fellow positions will be considered from candidates who are working towards or nearing completion of a relevant PhD qualification. The title of Research Fellow will be applied upon successful completion of the PhD. Prior to the qualification being awarded the title of Senior Research Assistant will be given.

Joining a strong international team of students, postdoctoral and academic staff working together on many aspects of cutting-edge research in polaritonics and quantum simulation you will have close collaboration and therefore international travel at the Weizmann Institute of Science, and MIT-Skoltech.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 10 months in the first instance due to funding restrictions with a tentative starting date the 1st of December 2019 with a salary of £32,236 per annum.

Interested candidates should contact Prof Pavlos Lagoudakis ( lagous@soton.ac.uk ) for further information.

Equality, diversity and Inclusion is central to the ethos in Physics and Astonomy (P&A). In recognition of our continued commitment to improving equality for women in science we were awarded an Athena SWAN Silver and achieved JUNO champion status. P&A gives full consideration to applicants that wish to work flexibly including part-time and due consideration will be given to applicants who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy*, onsite childcare facilities.

The University of Southampton is in the top 1% of world universities and in the top 10 of the UK's research-intensive universities. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and being a globally responsible university and has recently been awarded the Platinum EcoAward. Our vision is to embed the principles of sustainability into all aspects of our individual and collective work, integrating sustainable development into our business planning, policy-making, and professional activities. This commits all of our staff and students to take responsibility for managing their activities to minimise harm to the environment, whether this through switching off non-essential electrical equipment or using the recycling facilities.

Application procedure:

You should submit your completed online application form at www.jobs.soton.ac.uk . The application deadline will be midnight on the closing date stated above. Please note that applications will be assessed as soon as they are received. Do not delay your application. Interviews may be held and appointments made before the stated expiry date. If you need any assistance, please call Charlene Tyson (Recruitment Team) on +44 (0) 23 8059 6803. Please quote reference 1180519WF on all correspondence.

We aim to be an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all sections of the community. Please note that applications from agencies will not be accepted unless indicated in the job advert.