PhD Topics

Main Research Interests - Active and Passive Antennas, Antenna Arrays and Quasi-Optical Devices for microwave, mm-wave and THz applications and communication systems.

• Electromagnetic and antenna theory
• Classic and long-wave (quasi) optics
• Basic circuit theory with emphasis on active and non-linear operational modes
• Measurement experience using a VNA or THz-TDS
• Basic knowledge of spectroscopy
• Basic knowledge of Physics (e.g., Lagrangian Dynamics) and Chemistry
• MATHEMATICS – Applied, Mathematical Physics

If you are interested in working together there is a more detailed list of suggested topics with their more detailed descriptions and requirements (see below). However, any of your own exciting suggestions would be carefully considered for acceptance. Terms and conditions of PhD study at Queen Mary University of London can be found on the main page.

1. Lagrangian dynamics as a tool for investigation of large scale bio-molecular oscillation in the THz frequency domain. The main emphasis is to focus on simplifying models using “electrical” equivalent circuits, involving macro scaling of complex molecules. A solid background is required in both mechanics (classical and Lagrangian approach) and electronics, including signal and system theory. In addition, a candidate is required to have basic knowledge of chemistry, i.e., chemical bonds, molecular structure and organic chemistry.
2. Design of efficient sub-THz quasi-optical non-linear integrated system, e.g., multennas (multiplier + antenna on a single substrate). The work is aimed at further progress in already developed prototypes of quasi-optical active/non-linear antenna arrays, with an ultimate target of creating a full set of THz quasi-optical devices emulating RF and/or microwave circuitry, including generators, mixers and amplifiers. The work would require a solid understanding of electromagnetics/antenna theory, long-wave optics, basic RF active/passive and non-linear circuitry.
3. Active and non-linear arrays in the mm-wave and THz domains. This topic brings challenges in the classical fields of antennas and antenna arrays, however, in the emerging areas of mm-wave and sub-THz frequencies. It is similar to the previous topic, however, it emphasises antenna array solutions for quasi-optical devices, allowing much better power handling. An ultimate target is to model, design and measure a reliable and powerful prototype of THz quasi-optical active/non-linear antenna arrays. The candidate is required to have a solid background in electromagnetics, quasi-optics, active device operations, non-linear circuitry and, obviously, antenna array theory.
4. Beam shaping antenna arrays as an effective feed system for a modern mm-wave Compact Antenna Test Range (CATR). This work aims to combine theoretical and engineering approaches to create a combined theoretical and empirical tool which will be able to generate a reasonable solution for the “ideal” beam shape for a given CATR. Various fields of electromagnetics would be involved in this work, namely: various feed horn antennas; geometric theory of diffraction; physical theory of diffraction; mutual coupling, etc.
5. Electromagnetic theory of arbitrary elliptically polarised high order Ince-Gaussian modes’ propagation via systems of second or higher order surfaces. As it is seen from the topic title, the works emphasis is focused on building a suitable theoretical model of arbitrarily polarised and shaped, collimated, propagating beams. The model is aimed to be a simple and fast tool to predict complex behaviour of multi-reflector/lens systems, e.g., in on-board satellite quasi-optical networks. This topic would require a solid background in various areas, namely: basic electrodynamics; long-wave optics; microwave circuits theory; advanced mathematics, including differential geometry, matrix and, perhaps, tensor analysis.
6. Mutual coupling between collimated beams using Gaussian beam mode analysis. The topic is similar in requirements to those above, i.e., it requires a solid knowledge of antenna arrays, quasi-optics, Gaussian beam analysis. However, an ultimate aim of the work is to create a useful tool for predicting performance of large scale antenna arrays consisting of large radiating apertures or surfaces. It means that instead of making a model for the network and Gaussian beam propagation, one should concentrate on interaction between Gaussian beams.
7. Effective antennas for drone-to-drone as well as drone-to-base communications in short range secured digital THz channels in air. The topic aims to find possible solutions for new generations of “flying” communication systems, which can be used for various tasks: from security to temporary “hot-spots”. It would require from candidate a solid knowledge of electrodynamics, antenna theory, electromagnetic waves propagation as well as a good understanding of modern digital communication systems and their standards.
8. Splitting mechanisms of nano- and micro-particles using energy at mm- and sub-THz frequencies for precise in-body drug delivery. It is clearly seen from the title that the work aims to find an efficient mechanism, if any, of splitting nano-particles within a human body without “invading” it. This multi-disciplinary topic asking a candidate to be familiar and confident in areas of nano-particles and electromagnetism, antenna theory and microwave devices, as well as a general physics and chemistry.