About the Project

Supervisory Team: Dr Ian Davidson, Dr Ghafour Amouzad Mahdiraji, and Professor Francesco Poletti

About the project

Are you a graduate in physics, engineering, materials science, chemistry, or a related discipline? Do you want to be part of a technological revolution that could redefine how the world communicates? Join our cutting-edge PhD project at the Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) - in collaboration with Microsoft Azure Fiber

Join our cutting-edge PhD project to help develop the next generation of Hollow Core Fibres (HCFs). These innovative fibres guide light through air rather than glass, offering the potential to dramatically increase the speed, efficiency, and performance of global data transmission.

Why This Project?

• breakthrough technology: HCFs are poised to overcome the physical limits of conventional fibre optics, unlocking new possibilities in telecommunications, quantum photonics, space exploration, and high-energy physics.
• real-world impact: Work with Microsoft Azure Fiber, one of the world’s largest communication networks, to help shape the future of global connectivity.
• interdisciplinary exploration: Apply your background in physical sciences to a project that spans materials engineering, photonics, quantum technologies, and advanced manufacturing.

What You’ll Do

• design and fabricate novel HCFs using state-of-the-art cleanroom facilities.
• investigate their unique optical properties and performance.
• collaborate with world-leading researchers and industry partners.

Why Join Us?

• be part of a globally renowned research centre with over 90 labs and 200 researchers.
• access a vibrant PhD community and a strong network of photonics spin-out companies.
• receive comprehensive training and support to develop as a future leader in science and technology.
• if you're excited by the idea of working at the forefront of innovation and making a tangible impact on the future of communication, we want to hear from you.

During your PhD you will receive support and training from our world-leading team (both at the University of Southampton and Microsoft Azure Fibre) which will help you develop your research career and achieve ground-breaking results.

Entry requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent) in physics or a closely related discipline.

Fees and funding

Fully funded studentships are available for suitably qualified UK or international students paid for by our collaboration with Microsoft-Azure Fiber.

Full scholarships include tuition fees, a stipend at the UKRI rate plus 10% ORC enhancement tax-free per annum for up to 3.5 years (totalling £22,858 for 2025/26, rising annually) and a budget of £4200 for things like conference travel. UK, EU and Horizon Europe students are eligible for scholarships. Chinese Scholarship Council funded students are eligible for fee waivers. Funding for other international applicants is very limited and highly competitive. Overseas students who have secured or are seeking external funding are welcome to apply.

How to apply

Apply now

• Programme type: Research
• Academic year: 2026/27
• If you will be full time or part time
• Faculty: Engineering and Physical Sciences
• Search for programme PhD ORC (7097)
• Please add the name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application.

Applications should include:

• your CV (resumé)
• 2 academic references
• degree transcripts/ certificates to date
• English language qualification (if applicable)