Project Description
The successful candidate will join Fraunhofer Centre for Applied Photonics (Fraunhofer CAP) — the UK’s leading applied photonics research organisation — and pursue development of next generation Quantum Raman Spectroscopy.
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 quantum photonic technologies with advanced Raman instrumentation to create quantum-enhanced Raman spectrometers. Through this integration, the project seeks to significantly enhance sensitivity and enable new modes of operation beyond the reach of conventional Raman systems. During the project student will explore single-photon, time-correlated Raman technology, where the time of arrival of each Raman photon is measured with respect to the emission light. Such technology allows for measurement of the exact location of Raman scatterer and extremely efficient suppression of fluorescence and other backgrounds. Your work will push the boundaries of optical sensing, with applications in gas detection, energy systems, environmental protection, and transport safety.
You will be based at, and work within Fraunhofer CAP’s molecular sensing team, collaborating closely with and jointly supervised by Dr David Stothard (Fraunhofer CAP) and Dr David Li (University of Strathclyde in Biomedical Engineering). 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 in Glasgow’s Technology and Innovation Centre and 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.
If you are a motivated physics, engineering, or photonics graduate eager to shape the future of quantum sensing, we’d love to hear from you.
Fraunhofer CAP is a not-for-profit Research and Technology Organisation (RTO) and is the UK’s first Fraunhofer Research Centre — part of Europe’s leading applied research organisation. Based within the University of Strathclyde’s Technology and Innovation Centre in the heart of Glasgow, we collaborate with industry and academia to transform research into solutions that benefit society.
Our work spans renewable energy, quantum technologies, space, health, security, and beyond — helping companies bring ideas from the lab to the real world.
We are an inclusive, supportive, and dynamic team that values curiosity, integrity, and collaboration. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds who share our passion for scientific discovery and innovation. Dr David Li (https://www.strath.ac.uk/staff/lidaviddr/) leads a research group of 10 researchers at the Department of Biomedical Engineering (BME), University of Strathclyde, he has published over 140 research articles (citations ~ 3,600; h-index = 30) and has a track record in knowledge
transfer. So far Dr Li has supervised 21 PhD students as First Supervisor. Dr Li’s team focuses on picosecond time-resolved imaging/spectroscopy, single-photon counting imaging/sensing, embedded AI, and LIDAR/image analysis. His team works with the Department of Physics, Institute of Photonics, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences (SIPBS), and European research institutes.
While working at Fraunhofer CAP, you will be fully supported by Dr Li’s research team and BME.
Each studentship combines advanced academic research with practical, applied projects. You’ll gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge photonic technologies and work alongside leading scientists, engineers, and industry partners. Our projects are designed to challenge you, stretch your abilities, and prepare you for a meaningful research or innovation career.
Fraunhofer CAP is a friendly and encouraging ”Great Place To Work” accredited workplace with high rankings for ‘Development’ and ‘Women’.
CDT Essential Criteria
A Masters level degree (MEng, MPhys, MSc) at 2.1 or equivalent in Physics or relevant Engineering subject.
Desire to work collegiately, be involved in outreach, undertake taught and professional skills study.
Project Essential Criteria
A strong interest in quantum technologies, 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.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present research clearly and collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams.
To be practical, curious and self-motivated.
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.
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.