At a Glance
- Tasks: Innovate and develop cutting-edge optical fibre sensors for energy applications.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at the University of East Anglia and the Institute of Carbochemistry.
- Benefits: Receive a competitive stipend, tuition coverage, and hands-on research experience.
- Other info: Opportunity for international research experience and advanced training.
- Why this job: Shape the future of energy technology with impactful research and collaboration.
- Qualifications: 2:1 degree in Material Science, Optical Engineering, Physics, or related fields.
The predicted salary is between 21805 - 21805 £ per year.
Through your insights and innovation, you will help shape the future of optical sensing for energy applications. The race is on to develop sensors that enable smarter, safer, and efficient energy systems. One technology to achieve this is Lossy Mode Resonance (LMR), which occurs when light guided in an optical fibre couples to a lossy mode in a suitably engineered thin-film coating, generating a characteristic attenuation band in the transmission spectrum. Changes in the properties of the coating or its surrounding environment shift the resonance wavelength, enabling highly sensitive measurements. LMR sensors can therefore monitor temperature, chemical species, humidity, and other parameters relevant to energy technologies. Recent demonstrations include temperature monitoring in lithium-ion batteries, illustrating their potential for energy storage.
The project will examine how changes in fibre geometry, thin-film composition, and fabrication technique influence LMR sensor performance in energy environments. It will also address the miniaturisation of established sensor designs, supporting integration into compact energy-monitoring systems.
Your research will allow you to:
- Explore sensor geometries to understand their influence on sensitivity and robustness.
- Investigate thin-film materials, including metal oxides, conducting polymers, and hybrid coatings, for optical, chemical, and thermal stability in energy-system environments.
- Develop manufacturing methods, including spin and dip-assisted layer-by-layer coatings, for reproducible and scalable fabrication.
- Miniaturise current LMR sensor prototypes for integration into energy systems such as battery packs and solar panels.
You will join a growing international team at the University of East Anglia (UEA) and the Institute of Carbochemistry (ICB) in Spain, developing and applying LMR optical fibre sensors. You will have the opportunity to undertake a research stay at ICB, gaining hands-on experience with complementary expertise and facilities. Training in advanced analytical and experimental techniques at both institutions will support you in developing new approaches for optical fibre sensors for energy applications.
Entry requirements
The standard minimum entry requirement is 2:1 in Degrees in Material Science, Optical Engineering, Physics, Engineering, and other related disciplines will be considered.
Mode of study
Full-time
Start date
1 October 2027
Additional Funding Information
This PhD project is in a competition for a Faculty of Science funded studentship. Funding is available to UK applicants and comprises 'home' tuition fees and an annual stipend for 3 years. The current UEA / institutional PhD stipend rate is £21,805 and will be subject to any agreed inflationary uplift for 2027/28.
PhD Studentship: Development of Lossy Mode Resonance Optical Fibre Sensors for Energy Applications in Norwich employer: University of East Anglia
The University of East Anglia (UEA) is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. As a Commercialisation Administrator, you will benefit from a generous benefits package, including 34 days of annual leave, and the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects that impact society and the economy. UEA's commitment to gender equality, recognised by its Athena Swan Silver Institutional Award, further enhances its reputation as a progressive workplace.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Studentship: Development of Lossy Mode Resonance Optical Fibre Sensors for Energy Applications in Norwich
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
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We think you need these skills to ace PhD Studentship: Development of Lossy Mode Resonance Optical Fibre Sensors for Energy Applications in Norwich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at University of East Anglia. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at University of East Anglia. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of East Anglia
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at University of East Anglia. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
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In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at University of East Anglia to drive research projects forward.
