Postdoctoral Research Associate (Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies)

We are seeking to appoint a Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) to work in the field of the Nonlinear Fourier Transform (NFT) and soliton theory and its applications in optical signal processing at the Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies (AIPT). You will join the team of Dr Auro M. Perego, Associate Professor at AIPT, and work under the framework of an EPSRC project “Optical Darboux Transformer for nonlinear signal processing”, in collaboration with Dr. Mingming Tan, Research Fellow at AIPT, and international project partners.

In this three-year post, you will work at the state-of-the-art problem in the applications of the nonlinear Fourier Transform, namely the development of optical filters and multiplexers for the nonlinear spectrum of an optical signal. The project will build on recent research in Dr. Perego’s team about the implementation of the mathematical Darboux Transformation in the optical domain, leading to the Optical Darboux Transformer (ODT) device to control the nonlinear Fourier spectrum. You will develop your research, in synergy with experimentalists at the AIPT, on the ODT applications in telecom, and for the control of nonlinear dynamics of light in fibre lasers and optical resonators.

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• Develop and advance research on NFT, soliton theory, and their applications to optical signal processing; contribute to the development of optical filters and multiplexers for the nonlinear spectrum.
  
• Collaborate with experimentalists at AIPT to implement the Optical Darboux Transformer (ODT) and explore its applications in telecom and nonlinear dynamics control in fibre lasers and optical resonators.
  
• Engage in independent theoretical research in nonlinear fibre optics, or in soliton theory and the nonlinear Fourier Transform; perform analytical investigations and numerical modelling as required.
  
• Work within the EPSRC project framework and with project partners to deliver research objectives over a three-year period.
  

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• By the start date of the contract, have completed a PhD in Photonics, Theoretical Physics, Optical Engineering, or Electronics and Electrical Engineering.
  
• Proven track record in performing independent research in theoretical nonlinear fibre optics or in soliton theory and the nonlinear Fourier Transform.
  
• Experience in analytical investigation and numerical modelling of light propagation in nonlinear optical fibres, fibre lasers or resonators is required.
  
• Previous research experience in the Nonlinear Fourier Transform and soliton theory and/or experimental work in nonlinear fibre optics is desirable.
  

By joining AIPT you will be part of one of the largest research centres in photonics in the UK and Europe. AIPT is an internationally recognised institution at the forefront of research in several fields of photonics including theoretical, numerical, and experimental nonlinear photonics, optical communications, optical sensing and signal processing, optical frequency combs, biophotonics, fibre lasers, and semiconductor lasers. AIPT hosts the UK Multidisciplinary Centre for Neuromorphic Computing and has developed extensive partnerships with academic and industrial collaborators worldwide.

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• Aston University is a vibrant campus located within Birmingham city centre with excellent transport links via bus or train.
  
• Excellent training and development opportunities.
  
• A generous annual leave scheme with 30 days bookable leave and 13 days of bank holidays and University closure days.
  
• Everyday discounts to a number of activities and retailers.
  
• Great family-friendly policies and on-site gym and pool with discounted staff membership.
  
• Further information on Benefits and Rewards can be found here.
  

This role may meet the requirements for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. If you require sponsorship, Aston University will assess eligibility if you are shortlisted for the role. Please note we are unable to confirm individual eligibility before shortlisting. See here for more information on Skilled Worker visa eligibility: https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa

For informal enquiries about this position, you can contact Dr Auro Perego, AIPT Associate Professorial Research Fellow ()