3D printable THz waveguides for on-chip applications

Driven by our data hungry society, chip-to-chip and device-to-device data bit rates will need to reach terabits per second in a not distant future. Such data rate will only be met if there is a shift from microwaves to mm-waves (ca. 30 – 300 GHz) or even Terahertz frequencies (ca. 0.3 – 1 THz). Current on-chip interconnect technology relies on printed circuit board (PCB), which is not suitable for high frequencies due to loss and dispersion limitations. Tackling these problems with complex equalization techniques will not be possible because of their high-power consumption and needed area. To address the need for high-speed links for THz interconnects, this project will focus on the topological optimisation of the promising dielectric-lined metallic waveguide. The recent fabrication flexibility enable by two-photon polymerisation 3D printing rationalizes the use of the powerful topological optimisation.

The PhD candidate should have completed (or about to complete) their undergraduate degree in engineering or physics (preferably with first class honours or equivalent) and we expect the PhD candidate to develop the expertise required to lead an experimental research project, to train students, to interact with colleagues with different backgrounds (physics and engineering) and from different disciplines (i.e., electromagnetism, RF communications, material science). Details of the project will be agreed with the interested candidates to tailor the research on his/her interest.

The School of Physics and Astronomy is an Institute of Physics Juno Champion since 2014 and holder of the Athena SWAN Silver Award. Both initiatives recognise the School’s commitment to promote diversity and equality, and to encourage better practice for all members of the community, whilst also working towards developing an equitable working culture in which all students and staff can achieve their full potential.

We welcome applications from all qualified applicants and encourage applications from traditionally under-represented groups in physics and astronomy including, but not limited to, women and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic. The research programme will take place in the an interdisciplinary environment of the Metamaterials and Nanophotonics group (https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/research/activity/physics/quantum/metamaterials/index.aspx) and the Communication and Sensing group (https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/research/activity/eese/communications-sensing/communications-sensing.aspx), which will substantially favour collaboration opportunities within University of Birmingham and afield.

You can apply here: https://sits.bham.ac.uk/lpages/EPS005.htm (physics programme) or https://sits.bham.ac.uk/lpages/EPS019.htm (engineering programme) clearly stating the title of the project and the name of the supervisor (Dr. Miguel Navarro-Cía).

Funding notes:

Applications are sought from highly motivated students graduating with first degree (2:1 or higher) in physics or engineering (and preferably a MSci/MEng degree). Funding is awarded by the School on a competitive basis, depending on the strength of the applicant. The funding will cover tuition fees and provide a stipend for 3.5 years. For details of the funding available and advice on making your application, please contact: m.navarro-cia@bham.ac.uk.