Research Fellow in Topological Photonics (Terahertz Metamaterials), Optoelectronics Research Centre, University of Southampton
Job Description
The University of Southampton’s Optoelectronics Research Centre (ORC) has a postdoc in topological photonics. You will develop new topological photonic crystals and metamaterials to control light. The Royal Society project aims at reconfigurable terahertz topological states for future wireless links.
At a glance
- Position: Research Fellow, full time (ref. 3517226BA)
- Where: Optoelectronics Research Centre, Highfield Campus, Southampton, UK
- Pay: £36,636 to £44,746 a year
- Contract: Fixed term from 1 December 2026, or soon after, until 30 November 2028
- Enquiries: Dr Dongyang Wang
- Apply: 28 October 2026, 11.59 pm UK time
What the topological photonics research fellow will do
- Design and develop topological photonic crystals and metamaterials for efficient light control
- Work towards reconfigurable terahertz topological states for next-generation wireless communication
- Join an interdisciplinary ORC group in nanophotonics, metrology, metamaterials and topological photonics
Why this role matters
Topological photonics lets light travel along edges without scattering at bends and defects. At terahertz frequencies this could give robust, tunable parts for 6G-style wireless links. The ORC is a large, well-equipped photonics centre, so the post suits an optics PhD who wants device and fabrication experience.
What Southampton is looking for
- A PhD or equivalent (or nearly finished) in physics, optical engineering or a related subject relevant to topological photonic materials
- Proven practical knowledge of photonic crystals or metamaterials
- Strong problem-solving, self-motivation and ability to work in multidisciplinary teams
- A strong record of peer-reviewed papers and conference talks
Nice to have
- Recent micro- or nanofabrication and materials characterisation
- Computational multiphysics or electromagnetic modelling, including eigenmode analysis of photonic crystals
- Terahertz or microwave far-field spectroscopy, or near-field scanning
Pay and location
The salary is £36,636 to £44,746 a year, set by experience. The post is full time and fixed term until 30 November 2028, starting on 1 December 2026 or as soon as possible after. The job is on the Highfield Campus in Southampton. The ad does not say whether a visa can be sponsored, so overseas applicants should check the university’s right-to-work page.
How to apply
Apply through the official Southampton page. The closing date is 28 October 2026, 11.59 pm UK time. Apply online through the university’s portal with the reference 3517226BA. The job description is linked from the ad.
See all our postdoc jobs, or browse more research jobs on ResearchJobs.in.
Hiring institution: University of Southampton
Official advertisement: jobs.soton.ac.uk
How to prepare for this application
- Lead with your strongest photonic-crystal or metamaterial result and the method behind it
- Show both sides if you can: simulation (eigenmodes, band structures) and measurement
- Read a recent review on topological photonics at terahertz and microwave frequencies
- Read the job description and answer each criterion in your statement
- Check visa and right-to-work rules early if you are outside the UK
About the Optoelectronics Research Centre
The ORC at the University of Southampton is a large photonics research centre known for work on optical fibres, lasers and nanophotonics. It has its own cleanroom facilities for fabricating photonic devices.
