Project: Have you ever dreamt of having a Superman vision to see through walls? Using a microscope to image inside your body? Or taking a fancy Instagram photo with no flash glare effect? Do you believe that quantum physics can provide answers to these questions?
Imaging through scattering media is a major challenge in optical imaging. For example, scattering in biological tissues limits the penetration depth of optical imaging techniques, which restrict their application to only the eyes (transparent) and the skin surface (~100μm depth). In the last decade, many techniques were developed to overcome scattering phenomena [1]. Among them, optical wavefront shaping enables coherent control of scattered light to focus and image through layers of paint and biological samples [2]. However, these classical approaches have strong practical and fundamental limitations, and the path to Superman vision is still far ahead. In this phD project, the successful applicant will explore a new route towards imaging though scattering media using quantum properties of light. For this purpose, they will start a new experimental project and run theoretical investigations based on the extensive quantum imaging and wavefront shaping expertise developed over the past years by Hugo Defienne (phD supervisor) and Prof. Daniele Faccio (group leader) [3-5].
Research environment: The project will take place in the Extreme Light group at the University of Glasgow (UK). The group is led by Prof. Daniele Faccio and composed of 20 enthusiastic and international researchers (www.physics.gla.ac.uk/XtremeLight/index.html). The project will be embedded in the Quantum Imaging research thematic that already contains several ongoing projects. It will be led by and under the supervision of Hugo Defienne. The successful candidate will benefit from a dynamic and friendly working atmosphere, in which group meetings are run on a weekly basis and teamwork is the driving force. Beside the science, fun and conviviality are core values of the group, that are expected to be enhanced by the successful candidate. Personal training: During the project, the candidate will develop significant expertise in theoretical and quantum optics, with specific skills in optical imaging, sensing and programming. The applicant will also develop writing and communication skills through collaborative projects, international conferences, and by publishing scientific articles in peer-reviewed journals.
Application: The ideal candidate is expected to have followed a curriculum in Physics, Mathematics and/or Engineering, with excellent marks and some evidence of experimental training. A Master of Science level is required and a specific background in optics/quantum mechanics is desirable. Determination, curiosity and the ability to go above and beyond are keys values for the successful completion of the project. To apply, please send an email to
hugo.defienne@glasgow.ac.uk including:
- CV
- Cover letter
- Recommendation letters and/or references
- Candidate contact details (email, phone number and skype pseudo)
Details on the position: A fully funded 3,5 years PhD place on this project is available. Expected starting date is September 1st, 2020. Consideration of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.
References:
[1] S. Rotter and S. Gigan, Review of Modern Physics 89, 15005 (2017)
[2] S. Popoff et al, Nature Communications 1, 81 (2010)
[3] H. Defienne et al, arXiv 1911.01209 (2019)
[4] H. Defienne et al, Science Advances 5, 10 (2019)
[5] H. Defienne et al, Physical Review Letters 121, 23 (2018)