Development of Erbium-Doped Heavy-Metal-Oxide Glass Fiber Lasers for the Mid-Infrared Optical Window

Description

Context:
This PhD opportunity is part of a collaborative research program in materials and photonics between the University of Bordeaux (France) and Université Laval (Canada). Conducted under a joint supervision framework (cotutelle PhD with a double degree), the project is supported by the International Research Project (IRP-CNRS) LuMAQ, fostering scientific exchange and high-impact research across both institutions.

Description:
The mid-infrared (MIR) spectral range (2.5 - 20 µm) is critical for military, environmental sensing, and medical diagnostics applications, as it encompasses the fundamental vibrational modes of biological and organic compounds. However, the availability of suitable optical materials remains challenging, with only a few classes of inorganic glasses, such as heavy-metal-oxide, halide, and chalcogenide glasses, offering viable solutions.

For over a decade, a strong collaboration between Université Laval and the University of Bordeaux has led to breakthroughs in germano-gallate heavy-metal-oxide glasses, enabling:
- Low-loss optical fibers
- Supercontinuum generation
- Ultrafast laser-inscribed waveguides

Building on this foundation, this PhD project aims to achieve the first demonstration of efficient mid-infrared fiber lasers using erbium-doped germano-gallate fibers. Conducted between ICMCB (France) and COPL (Canada), this research will span the entire development pipeline, from glass synthesis to fiber integration in laser systems, leveraging world-class expertise in fiber-based photonic devices.

In collaboration with LumIR Lasers as our industrial partner, the candidate will optimize fiber design through numerical simulations and experimental validation, bridging fundamental research with industrial applications.

Requirements and Conditions

We seek a highly motivated candidate with:
- Strong interest in optics, photonics, and laser technology
- Proficiency in experimental techniques (numerical simulations are an asset)
- Problem-solving and analytical skills
- Fluency in English and French
- Willingness to engage in international mobility (France-Canada cotutelle)

Application Deadline

July 6, 2025