Program Overview

Introduction to the Applied Optics Group

The Applied Optics Group hosts students studying for 3-year PhD and 1-year MSc (by research) degrees in the School of Physics and Astronomy. In addition to funded positions, which are advertised when they become available, the group welcomes applications from self-funded students at any time and can also support strong candidates in applying for external funding.

Research Areas

PhD and MSc projects are available in a broad range of areas around biomedical imaging and sensing technology, including:

• Optical coherence tomography
• Photoacoustic imaging
• Confocal microscopy and endomicroscopy
• Optical design
• Light-tissue interaction and modelling
• Optical sources and fast tunable lasers
• Signal processing methods and GPU processing

Research Environment

AOG postdocs and research students are all housed in dedicated space in the University's Photonics Centre, with all the necessary optics research facilities on hand. The group is highly collaborative, and members work as part of a friendly international team with a range of expertise. Regular group meetings and internal research seminars are held, as well as regular external speakers. Group members regularly attend national and international workshops and conferences, and the group often hosts events.

Training and Networking Opportunities

A range of training and networking opportunities are available through the Kent Graduate Researcher College. With the agreement of their supervisor, there are also opportunities for students to be involved in outreach and undergraduate teaching.

Application Process

Applications are made through the University's main admissions site. Candidates are advised to make contact with a potential supervisor to discuss opportunities before applying. When applying, candidates should select either MSc Physics or PhD Physics and be sure to include the name of their preferred supervisor. A detailed research proposal is not required, but candidates should clearly set out their motivation for obtaining a research degree in applied optics, state the project or area they wish to focus on, and highlight their skills and experience.

Available Projects

A list of potential projects is available, although this is not exhaustive. Candidates are encouraged to discuss alternative projects within the group's broad areas of work. Funded projects are advertised separately.