This PhD project focuses on the design and fabrication of bespoke Micro-LEDs for advanced applications in free-space quantum key distribution (QKD) and high-speed optical wireless communications (OWC). Micro-LEDs are a cutting-edge display and photonic technology, known for their high pixel density, fast modulation speeds, and direct CMOS integration.

The University of Strathclyde’s Institute of Photonics, a global leader in Micro-LED research, has demonstrated their utility beyond displays—including in quantum imaging, biophotonics, and secure communications. Recent work has extended Micro-LED capabilities into the deep ultraviolet (230–280 nm) range, with bandwidths up to 800 MHz, making them ideal for terrestrial and space-based optical links.

The student will:

• Design Micro-LED structures tailored for QKD and OWC.
• Fabricate devices using advanced cleanroom techniques such as lithography, etching, micro-transfer printing, and deposition.
• Test and characterize devices using state-of-the-art optical facilities.
• Collaborate with Fraunhofer Centre for Applied Photonics (CAP), gaining exposure to commercial R&D and undertaking a short placement to test devices in real-world use cases.

This interdisciplinary project offers hands-on experience in photonics, semiconductor processing, and quantum communications, preparing the student for careers in both academic and industrial research.