Project Description
The successful candidate will join Fraunhofer Centre for Applied Photonics (CAP) — the UK’s leading applied photonics research organisation — and pursue development of next-generation Raman Spectroscopic instrumentation with a particular emphasis on its utility within the UK’s world-class emerging fusion energy sector.
Raman spectroscopy provides unique molecular “fingerprints” for chemical and biological sensing, but its inherently weak signal limits sensitivity for trace gases and dilute samples. This EngD project aims to overcome these challenges by integrating hollow-core fibres with advanced Raman instrumentation to create order-of-magnitude improvements in utility. Through this integration, the project seeks to significantly enhance sensitivity and enable new modes of operation beyond the reach of conventional Raman systems. Your work will push the boundaries of optical sensing, with applications in gas detection, energy systems and environmental protection.
You will work within Fraunhofer CAP’s molecular sensing team, collaborating closely with Dr David Stothard (Fraunhofer CAP) and Professor Karen Faulds (University of Strathclyde) in the department of Pure & Applied Chemistry. You’ll gain hands-on experience developing and testing new optical systems — from laboratory design to real-world validation.
You will have access to state-of-the-art Fraunhofer CAP facilities and Strathclyde’s world-class Raman expertise, both located within Glasgow’s Technology and Innovation Centre. You will work collaboratively across academia and industry. The programme offers extensive professional development through technical, commercial, and leadership training, along with opportunities to publish your work, present at conferences, and travel internationally.
As an EngD researcher, you will benefit from:
- Access to cutting-edge laboratories and expert supervision.
- Collaboration with leading scientists, engineers, and industry partners.
- Professional and personal development through training and leadership programmes.
- Opportunities to present research at international conferences.
- A diverse and supportive culture
This EngD combines advanced academic research with industry-driven innovation, preparing you for a career at the forefront of photonics and communication engineering.
We are a bright, engaging, welcoming, helpful and diverse team and want like-minded individuals who want to make a difference and really contribute.
Fraunhofer CAP offers a competitive edge when it comes to further career progression through the following:
- Work in a world-class, well-funded and well-appointed research hub, within the innovation district of Glasgow City Centre
- Learn from a talented team of international colleagues – through interaction with other projects and students
- Opportunity to develop commercial skills – business development, innovation, leadership through exposure to commercial project partners and programmes
- Wider opportunities to travel and present your research activities
Fraunhofer CAP is a friendly and encouraging ”Great Place To Work” accredited workplace with high rankings for ‘Development’ and ‘Women’.
If you’re a motivated physics, applications of lasers, engineering, or photonics graduate eager to shape the future of optical sensing, we’d love to hear from you.
CDT Essential Criteria
A Masters level degree (MEng, MPhys, MSc) at 2.1 or equivalent in Physics, Chemistry or relevant Engineering subject
Desire to work collegiately, be involved in outreach, undertake taught and professional skills study
Project Essential Criteria
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present research clearly and collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams
A strong interest in hands-on experimental work, applied photonics, and sensor development, with the drive to carry out sustained, original research leading to doctoral-level contributions
Ability to analyse and interpret experimental data
Aptitude for numerical modelling (this will be supported with in-house expertise).
A desire to engage with industrial applications and partners
Project Desirable Criteria
Familiarity with scientific programming tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW) for instrument control, data acquisition, and signal processing
An interest in electronics and instrumentation
Some hands-on experience with laboratory optical setups and instrumentation
The CDT
The CDT in Applied Photonics provides a supportive, collaborative environment which values inclusivity and is committed to creating and sustaining a positive and supportive environment for all our applicants, students, and staff. For further information, please see our ED&I statement: https://bit.ly/3gXrcwg.
Forming a supportive cohort is an important part of the programme and our students take part in various professional skills workshops, including Responsible Research and Innovation, and attend outreach training.