Distributed Sensing in Complex Photonic Network Ensembles

Apply to pursue a PhD in the Optical Theory Group, led by Matthew Foreman, where you will explore optical and plasmonic properties of random complex networks and develop novel sensing algorithms. Located at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, this opportunity offers a unique and exciting environment for your research journey.

Complex and random nanophotonic networks, formed for example by a web of interconnected optical or plasmonic waveguides, are an emerging technology offering a unique and novel approach to light transport, lasing, data processing and optical control. Intrinsically, light propagating in an optical network, or graph, undergoes multiple scattering, which can lead to a diverse range of phenomena such as Anderson localisation, loop resonances and long range correlations. Moreover, optical modes formed by recurrent scattering and interference, are highly sensitive to network topology, connectivity, scattering node properties and the balance of optical losses and gain. In our group we have recently shown that multiple scattering in a quasi-two dimensional optical systems, can be leveraged to significantly enhance the sensitivity of optical single molecule biosensors when these cooperative and localisation effects are appropriately engineered. Complex photonic networks therefore represent a promising, yet unexplored, platform for sensing which will be explored in this project.

During the course of this project, the candidate will theroetically and computationally study light propagation in random complex photonic and plasmonic network. Statistical properties of different network ensembles will be established. Enhancements of light-matter interactions and topological effects will also be theoretically investigated. The sensing capabilities, and corresponding sensitivity of network modes to bulk, localised and distributed effects will be established with development of supporting algorithms. As such the project aims to develop a novel, versatile and highly sensitive platform for sensing applications such as environmental monitoring, biomedical diagnostics or fault detection.

The ideal candidate has an enthusiasm for informatics, mathematics, statistical analysis and algorithm development. They would have a first degree in physics, mathematics or engineering with strong analytical, mathematical and programming skills. We consider an applicant’s Grade Point Average (GPA) an important factor in assessing their suitability.

About the Group

We are a theoretical research group at the School of Electrical and Electronic Engineering and the Institute for Digital Molecular Analytics and Science at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. The group is lead by Assistant Professor Matthew R. Foreman (PhD, MPhys). We have a strong background in physics, mathematics and optical modelling.

Our research focuses on optical and plasmonic sensing, polarisation sensitive imaging, disordered media and electromagnetic theory. We seek to drive progress in quantitative bioimaging and sensing, through development of novel modalities, system modelling and optimisation, and fundamental physical insights.

Important Links

Optical Theory Group website: https://mrforeman.com/

Other available projects: https://mrforeman.com/join.php

Full admissions guide can be found here: https://www.ntu.edu.sg/admissions/graduate/radmissionguide#Content_C047_Col00

This PhD project is funded through an NTU Research Scholarship. To secure the scholarship the PhD position must be taken up in the Jan 2025 student intake. Details can be found here: https://www.ntu.edu.sg/admissions/graduate/financialmatters/scholarships/rss. Speculative applications welcome all year for either Jan or Aug intake.

Apply through the online portal (application fee of S$50 applies, so please get in touch first): https://venus.wis.ntu.edu.sg/GOAL/OnlineApplicationModule/frmOnlineApplication.ASPX. Indicate Asst Prof Matthew Foreman as proposed supervisor.

Admissions Eligibility

Applicants must have Bachelor’s degree with minimum Honours (Distinction) and its equivalent and the ability to pursue research in the candidate’s proposed field of advanced study.

Required Test Score

A valid GRE/GMAT score is required for applicants who are not graduates of the Autonomous Universities in Singapore. Test dates must be within 5 years or less from the date of your application. Applicants from India may use the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering [GATE] score of at least 90th percentile in place of GRE. Test date must be within 3 years or less from the date of your application. 

For applicants whose native language is not English, a good TOEFL score is required. Test dates must be within 2 years or less from the date of your application. IELTS may be submitted in place of TOEFL.

A copy of GRE/GMAT/TOEFL/IELTS test scores should be attached to the application.