Threading quantum states of light through complex scattering media PhD in Physics and Astronomy (funded) Ref: 5797

Supervisors

Professor David Phillips

Associate Professor Simon Horsley

Fully-funded PhD Studentship – Threading quantum states of light through complex scattering media

We are offering a fully-funded PhD studentship in the field of quantum photonics (UK/international tuition fees covered). The aim of project is to develop a new experimental platform to control quantum states of light as they propagate through complex scattering media, with future applications to quantum networking, computing and sensing.

Quantum technologies exploit the unique properties of quantum physics to deliver functionality that cannot be achieved using classical physics alone. For example, quantum communication protocols promise ultra-secure communication networks; quantum computing and machine learning open up the possibility of solving problems that are intractable on classical computers; and quantum sensing and imaging allows measurement precision far beyond classical limits. 

Underpinning all of these applications is the ability to robustly transfer quantum information from one place to another - from fibre links within a datacentre to free-space optical links with satellites. A key challenge is the fragility of quantum states that are very easily disrupted by uncontrolled interactions with their environment. A front-running strategy to shuttle quantum information around is by encoding quantum information into photons, known as ‘flying qubits’. Photons not only travel close to the speed of light, but also interact only minimally with one another and their environment, meaning they are well suited to the preservation of quantum information. Photons also benefit from an exceedingly high information capacity. For example, information can be encoded into the polarization, frequency and arrival time of light. An emerging area is the encoding of quantum information into the spatial states of photons. In the same way as a qr-code or an image can convey data, the spatial shape of the wavefunction describing single or entangled photons can be manipulated - representing a relatively unexplored avenue for quantum information transfer. 

Using wavefront shaping technologies it is possible to manipulate high-dimensional entangled states in the spatial modes of light [1]. In this project we will build upon our research group’s expertise in controlling classical states of light through complex scattering media [2-5], extending these approaches to enable the quantum states of light to be guided through dynamically changing complex scattering media. Among the possible applications are the development of quantum communication protocols over free-space optical links, compensating for scattering of entangled photons in media such as multimode fibres and the turbulent atmosphere, and the realisation of logic gates to perform quantum computation operations.

This is a 3.5-year PhD position based in the Structured Light Lab, within the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Exeter (Streatham campus, Exeter). The Structured Light Lab is led by Prof. David Phillips and consists of a dynamic team of PhD and postdoctoral researchers working at the forefront of photonics research. You will conduct your research in the Lab’s dedicated state-of-the-art laser laboratory facilities, which are well-supported by active grants from the European Research Council (ERC), and the UK Engineering and Physical Science Research Council (EPSRC). You will gain significant expertise in experimental optics and quantum photonics, and specific skills in programming (e.g., python). The project will be co-supervised by Prof. Simon Horsley (who brings expertise in quantum theory) and Dr Callum Jones (who brings hands-on experience in developing quantum optics platforms). The PhD studentship includes travel resources for national and international research visits and attendance at the leading international conferences in the field.

The ideal candidate should have an enthusiasm for experimental physics and programming. This research project would ideally suit a candidate with a background in one of the following disciplines: Physics, Optics, Electronic Engineering, Computer Science, Natural Sciences, Quantum technologies, although we are open to any enthusiastic applicant with a science-related background.

The start date of the studentship is October 2026 (or earlier or soon thereafter). The award covers UK/International tuition fees plus an annual tax-free stipend for a duration of 3.5 years (full time) or part time equivalent. The stipend will be at least £20,780 per yr. (which is the 2025-26 rate). The studentship will be awarded on the basis of merit.

For informal enquiries please contact Prof. David Phillips at the University of Exeter (email: d.phillips@exeter.ac.uk).

[1] Lib, O., Bromberg, Y. Quantum light in complex media and its applications. Nature Physics, 18, 986–993 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41567-022-01692-y

[2] Mididoddi et al. (2025). Threading light through dynamic complex media. Nature Photonics, 1-7. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41566-025-01642-z

[3] Kupianskyi et al. (2024). All-optically untangling light propagation through multimode fibers. Optica, 11(1), 101-112. https://doi.org/10.1364/OPTICA.502144

[4] Li et al.(2021). Memory effect assisted imaging through multimode optical fibres. Nature Communications, 12(1), 3751. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-021-23729-1

[5] Stellinga et al. (2021). Time-of-flight 3D imaging through multimode optical fibers. Science, 374(6573), 1395-1399. https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2107.11450

Entry requirements

Applicants for this studentship must have obtained, or be about to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class UK Honours degree, or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK, in the physical sciences or engineering. (relevant subjects include Physics, Optics, Electronic Engineering, Computer Science, Natural Sciences, although we are open to any enthusiastic applicant with a science-related background).

If English is not your first language you will need to meet the English language requirements and provide proof of proficiency. Click here for more information.

How to apply

Apply now

To apply, please click the ‘Apply Now’ button above. In the application process you will be asked to upload several documents:

•            CV

•            Letter of application (outlining your academic interests, prior research experience and reasons for wishing to undertake the project).

•            Transcript(s) giving full details of subjects studied and grades/marks obtained (this should be an interim transcript if you are still studying)

•            Two references from referees familiar with your academic work. If your referees prefer, they can email the reference direct to PGRApplicants@exeter.ac.uk quoting the studentship reference number.

•            If you are not a national of a majority English-speaking country you will need to submit evidence of your proficiency in English.

The closing date for applications is midnight on 31^st January 2026.  Interviews will be held virtually approximately 1-2 weeks after the application closing date.

All application documents must be submitted in English. Certified translated copies of academic qualifications must also be provided.

Please quote reference 5797 on your application and in any correspondence about this studentship.

Summary