Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team to design ultrathin lenses for compact imaging devices using cutting-edge optical technologies.
- Company: Be part of the University of Nottingham's innovative Optics and Photonics Research Group.
- Benefits: Enjoy a fully funded PhD with tuition fees and stipend covered for 3 years.
- Why this job: Work on groundbreaking projects in VR/AR, quantum tech, and biomedical imaging while gaining valuable skills.
- Qualifications: Must have a high (1st or 2:1) honours degree in Physics or Electrical and Electronic Engineering.
- Other info: Collaborate with leading researchers and gain hands-on experience in AI, nanofabrication, and computational modelling.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 30000 £ per year.
Closing Date
Monday 17 November 2025
Reference
ENG280
AI design of ultrathin lenses for compact imaging devices
The Faculty of Engineering at the University of Nottingham is seeking an enthusiastic, self-motivated student who enjoys working as part of a team to undertake a PhD in the Optics and Photonics Research Group (OPG), supervised by Dr. Mitchell Kenney alongside collaborators within OPG and Life sciences.
( https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/research/groups/optics-and-photonics-research-group/index.aspx ).
The advent of the smart-phone has undoubtedly revolutionised portable imaging systems, but the need for smarter imaging capability grows with increased healthcare end-user and accessibility demands. Imaging is a crucially important aspect in many scientific fields, with it being of particular importance in life-sciences and biomedical imaging. Novel techniques, such as microscopy, fluorescence microscopy, and light-field imaging allow users to gather more useful information with higher levels of details than ever imagined. However, lots of these advanced systems still rely on old technologies based on standard glass lenses and components which are bulky and have limited capabilities.
Metamaterials are artificial materials that use digitally-arranged nanometre-sized optical structures for intelligent manipulation of light. They require only simplistic (microelectronics-compatible) fabrication processes, and have the potential to replace previous optical components, with enhanced functionalities capable of gathering extra optical information.
The proposed project is to design flat metamaterial optics [1,2,3] and utilise their increased functionality to develop novel computational imaging and sensing techniques for compact imaging systems. These systems are applicable to all sectors which require compact imaging specifications, but will have a primary focus on VR/AR, quantum tech, life-sciences, computing and biomedical imaging. The project will work on cutting-edge optical technologies alongside collaborators Prof Melissa Mather, Prof Dmitri Veprintsev, and Dr Sendy Phang.
The student can gain experience and skills in a range of topics, such as Artificial Intelligence and Deep Learning, nanofabrication, computational modelling, metamaterial design, and optical setup construction. They will make use of commercial simulation software to test electromagnetic designs, algorithmic coding to design metamaterials, fabrication techniques to produce these, and then determine their imaging performance in bespoke optical systems in the visible light range.
Applicants should have, or be expected to gain, a high (1st or 2:1) honours degree in Physics or Electrical and Electronic Engineering and be a UK or home student. The studentship covers tuition fees and stipend for 3 years. For any enquiries about the project please e-mail Dr. Mitchell Kenney ( ezzmgk@nottingham.ac.uk ).
[1] L. Huang, S. Zhang, T. Zentgraf, \”Metasurface holography: from fundamentals to applications,\” Nanophotonics 7, 1169 (2018).
[2] X. Zou, G. Zheng, Q. Yuan, et al., \”Imaging Based on Metalenses,\” PhotoniX 1 (2020).
[3] M. Kenney, J. Grant, et al., \”Large area metasurface lenses in the NIR region,\” in Modeling Aspects in Optical Metrology VII, SPIE (June 2019). #J-18808-Ljbffr
PhD Studentship: AI design of ultrathin lenses for compact imaging devices employer: University Of Nottingham
Contact Detail:
University Of Nottingham Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Studentship: AI design of ultrathin lenses for compact imaging devices
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in metamaterials and their applications in imaging technologies. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Engage with the Optics and Photonics Research Group's work by attending seminars or webinars they host. This will give you insights into their current projects and allow you to ask informed questions, showcasing your enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current PhD students or alumni from the University of Nottingham who are involved in similar research. They can provide valuable advice on the application process and what to expect during your studies.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss how your background in Physics or Electrical and Electronic Engineering aligns with the project’s goals. Highlight any relevant projects or experiences that demonstrate your skills in AI, deep learning, or optical design.
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Studentship: AI design of ultrathin lenses for compact imaging devices
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Project: Familiarise yourself with the details of the PhD project. Read about metamaterials, computational imaging, and the specific technologies mentioned in the job description to demonstrate your knowledge and enthusiasm.
Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant academic achievements, particularly in Physics or Electrical and Electronic Engineering. Include any experience with AI, deep learning, or optical technologies that aligns with the project focus.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that explains why you are interested in this PhD studentship. Discuss your motivation for pursuing research in optics and photonics, and how your background makes you a suitable candidate.
Prepare for Potential Interviews: Be ready to discuss your research interests and how they align with the project. Prepare questions about the research group and the methodologies used, showing your genuine interest in the work being done.
How to prepare for a job interview at University Of Nottingham
✨Understand the Project Scope
Familiarise yourself with the details of the PhD project, especially the focus on ultrathin lenses and metamaterials. Be prepared to discuss how your background in Physics or Electrical Engineering aligns with the project's goals.
✨Showcase Relevant Skills
Highlight any experience you have with AI, deep learning, or optical technologies. If you've worked with simulation software or fabrication techniques, make sure to mention these skills during the interview.
✨Prepare Questions for Your Interviewers
Think of insightful questions to ask Dr. Mitchell Kenney and other collaborators about their research. This shows your genuine interest in the project and helps you understand the team's dynamics better.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork and Collaboration
Since the role involves working as part of a team, be ready to share examples of past collaborative projects. Emphasise your ability to work well with others and contribute positively to group efforts.
