The Novel Phase Change Materials for Integrated Photonics Scholarship 2026 at the University of Southampton, United Kingdom, is a fully funded doctoral research opportunity. The project develops next-generation reprogrammable photonic materials and devices to improve energy-efficient computing, neuromorphic systems, and optical data processing for AI applications.

About the Novel Phase Change Materials for Integrated Photonics Scholarship

The University of Southampton offers this PhD project under the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, within the Zepler Institute for Photonics and Nanoelectronics.

The research focuses on solving the growing global data and energy challenge by developing phase-change materials (PCMs) that can dynamically reconfigure optical circuits.

These materials enable reprogrammable photonic systems, where light-based circuits can be rewritten to perform different computational tasks such as image recognition, lidar processing, and neuromorphic computing.

The project develops:

  • Advanced phase-change material synthesis and optimization
  • Reconfigurable integrated photonic devices
  • Optical computing and neuromorphic architectures
  • High-efficiency photonic components for AI and telecom applications

Students also work in state-of-the-art cleanroom facilities and gain hands-on experience in design, fabrication, and experimental characterization of photonic devices.

Why Choose The Novel Phase Change Materials for Integrated Photonics Scholarship?

This PhD allows you to work at the frontier of photonic computing, nanomaterials, and artificial intelligence hardware.

You gain practical experience in:

  • Designing reprogrammable photonic chips
  • Working with phase-change and nanophotonic materials
  • Cleanroom fabrication and optical testing
  • Neuromorphic and in-memory photonic computing

You also build strong career pathways in:

  • Semiconductor and photonics industries
  • AI hardware development
  • Advanced materials research and innovation

Novel Phase Change Materials for Integrated Photonics Scholarship Summary

  • Host Country: United Kingdom
  • Host University: University of Southampton
  • Scholarship Name: Novel Phase Change Materials for Integrated Photonics
  • Study Level: PhD (Doctoral Research)
  • Funding Type: Fully funded studentship
  • Duration: Up to 3.5–4 years
  • Funding Coverage: Full tuition fees + UKRI stipend (tax-free)
  • Research Field: Photonics, materials science, neuromorphic computing, nanotechnology
  • Selection Basis: Academic excellence in physics, engineering, or materials science
  • Application Requirement: Direct PhD application with supervisor contact
  • Closing Date: 31 August 2026

Scholarship Benefits

This PhD studentship provides:

  • Full tuition fee coverage
  • A tax-free UKRI doctoral stipend
  • Access to world-class Zepler Institute cleanroom facilities
  • Training in photonic device fabrication and material engineering
  • Hands-on research in neuromorphic and optical computing systems
  • Opportunities for publications in top photonics journals
  • Collaboration with international photonics research networks

Eligibility Criteria

You qualify for this PhD if you:

  • Hold a UK 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent
  • Have a background in:
    • Physics
    • Chemistry
    • Engineering
    • Electronics or materials science
  • Demonstrate understanding of:
    • Semiconductor physics
    • Photonics or optical systems
    • Materials science fundamentals
  • Show interest in:
    • Nanophotonics
    • Neuromorphic computing
    • Reconfigurable optical systems
  • Have (preferred):
    • Experimental or lab experience
    • Programming or computational modelling skills

Required Documents

You must submit:

  • Completed the University of Southampton PhD application form
  • Academic CV
  • Degree transcripts and certificates
  • Two academic references
  • Research proposal or statement of interest
  • English language test results (if required)
  • Supervisor contact confirmation (recommended)

Application Process & Timeline

You follow these steps:

  1. You apply for a PhD in Electronics and Computer Science or Photonics at Southampton.
  2. You contact the project supervisor (Dr Ioannis Zeimpekis).
  3. You prepare your CV, transcripts, and research statement.
  4. You submit your application via the university portal.
  5. The university evaluates academic and technical suitability.
  6. Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed.
  7. Successful applicants receive a fully funded PhD offer.