PhD Project: Time-synchronised microcomb communications
About the role
Lead University: Monash University
Primary Supervisor: A/Prof Bill Corcoran (Monash University)
Co-Supervisors: Dr. Park Prayoonyong (Monash University), Prof. Suelynn Choi (RMIT University), Prof. Allison Kealy (Swinburne University of Technology)
PhD stipend: AUD$41,555 per/annum + $5,000 per/annum top up
The project
This project explores the idea that the intrinsic periodic oscillation of a microcomb can be used to simplify advanced optical communication systems, and help support precision timing across optical communication networks.
Digital communication systems that our connected world (i.e. everything internet) runs on require translation from our continuous analogue universe into discrete digital signals. Part of this is “sampling”, grabbing digital bits out of optical systems at the right time.
Our microcombs are intrinsically stable in the rate that they output pulses, and so can provide a reference source for systems – enabling a communication system that is locked to a fingernail sized device. In addition to this, the precision of these pulses might help to keep time to a really precise level.
We’d like to test if this idea can revolutionise the way that we send data between AI data centres, across our nation through the NBN, under the sea in continent-connecting cables, and potentially through the air and in space.
The aim is to make advanced communication systems simpler to build, and to take less energy to run – to help continue societal progress without requiring exponentially more resources.
Eligibility criteria
- The candidate should have first-class honours equivalent (or above) degree in Physics or Electrical Engineering, and be able to study experimental optics and photonics in Australia.
- PhDs in Australia run between three and four years in duration (equivalent full time load).
- Meet all Monash PhD eligibility requirements: www.monash.edu/graduate-research/study/apply/admission-criteria
COMBS is committed to achieving gender equity and strongly encourages applications from women and women identifying candidates.
Why do a PhD with us at COMBS?
Competitive tax-free stipend
The Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence rate is (AUD$41,555 p/a) + $5,000 p/a top up
Be a part of our global network
Opportunities for industry internships.
Get prepared with real-world skills
Opportunities to apply for internal grant schemes to upskill.
Attend events to build your network
Supported attendance at COMBS events like the Annual Centre Workshop, theme workshops and PhD network events.
How to apply
Please use the link below to submit your application.
Valid applications must:
- Be submitted using the application portal (applications will not be accepted via email)
- Include valid data for all required fields in the application form
- Include a cover letter (maximum one page) that includes:
- Your educational/professional experience that is relevant to the specific project you are applying for,
- Why you are interested in the specific project and pursuing a PhD in COMBS, and
- Any other information you think is relevant to your application.
- Meet all Monash PhD eligibility requirements: www.monash.edu/graduate-research/study/apply/admission-criteria
Please note: You can apply for more than one PhD project by submitting a separate application for each project you intend to apply for in the form below.
What happens after I apply?
Once you have submitted your application you will receive an email confirmation as evidence that we have received it.
After the project application window has closed, all applications will be reviewed and a shortlist selected for interviews.
If you are successfully shortlisted, you will be contacted to arrange an interview.
NOTE: If you are unsuccessful in being shortlisted, you will still be contacted with this information so please avoid contacting us for updates on the status of your application.
Should you be offered the project after your interview, you will be required to apply for enrolment in a PhD program at the relevant university. Your successful enrolment will be dependent on meeting the university’s eligibility requirements so it is essential that you check these before applying with us to avoid disappointment.
The team you'll be joining
Dr William (Bill) Corcoran
Bill is an optical communications researcher focusing on using novel photonic technologies to fix problems in the systems underpinning the backbone of the internet.
Dr Chawaphon (Park) Prayoonyong
Chawaphon (Park) is a research fellow at Monash University
Professor Suelynn Choi
Suelynn specialises in applications and methods of accurate and reliable positioning, and satellite remote sensing of the Earth atmosphere. She is a Professor of Satellite Navigation in RMIT University and Director of the RMIT Satellite Positioning for Atmosphere, Climate and Environment (SPACE) Research Centre.
Professor Allison Kealy
Allison is a Professor specialising in Geodesy and resilient positioning, navigation, and timing, with the aim of developing more resilient navigation systems that can operate without dependency on satellite signals.
Our culture at COMBS
We value gender equality, equity, diversity, inclusion, and access, and we recognise the importance of intersectionality.
We are committed to creating an environment that embraces and harnesses these intersections to do the best science we can.
We invite you to join us to become part of our diverse and inclusive COMBS community.
Hear from others who have done a PhD at a Centre of Excellence
Read about your future teams' research
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, but you must submit a separate application for each project you intend to apply for.
The cover letter should highlight:
- Your educational/professional experience that is relevant to the specific project you are applying for,
- Why you are interested in the specific project and pursuing a PhD in COMBS, and
- Any other information you think is relevant to your application.
Each university has their own English requirements so you must check the relevant university’s website for details (linked with each project description above).
Visa approval times vary but will usually be completed within 2-3 months. You can check the current estimated approval time on this website (search for Student visa (subclass 500)): https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-processing-times/global-visa-processing-times