Optical Theory Group

The ability to detect single molecules and precisely monitor their behaviour is critical to understanding key processes in biology such as protein folding, DNA synthesis and membrane transport. Modern biosensing techniques often exploit the advantages offered by optical technologies, namely speed, flexibility and low cost. An important and powerful example is that of a whispering gallery mode (WGM) sensor in which light is confined in a dielectric microstructure and brought to repeatedly interfere with itself. As a result, only specific optical frequencies can be supported and reside within the cavity without suffering large losses. Sensitivity to single bioparticles has been demonstrated by monitoring perturbations to the spectral properties of optical WGMs and hence they represent an indispensable component of next generation high-performance optical biosensing.

In the quest to push the sensitivity limits to enable detection of smaller bioparticles, or facilitate earlier disease detection, we have recently considered advanced WGM sensing platforms, such as hybrid photonic-plasmonic systems and droplet resonators. In this PhD project a number of novel unconventional whispering gallery modes will be studied theoretically and their sensing characteristics established. Analytic techniques to enable quantification of bioparticles, including size, shape and enantiomer characterisation will be established. The ideal candidate has a keen enthusiasm for theoretical optics and an interest in development of new applied methodologies for optical sensing. They would have a first degree in physics, engineering, or mathematics with strong analytical, mathematical and programming skills.

Please contact Matthew Foreman for further information.