Colloidal perovskite nanocrystals (NCs, specks of semiconductor materials) represent an exciting frontier in solution-processed materials due to their size-tunable optical properties and unique quantum behaviour. These properties make perovskite nanocrystals ideal for a wide range of advanced photonic applications, including solar cells, light-emitting diodes (LEDs), high-speed colour converters, and laser technologies. A particularly intriguing area of recent research in this field has been the demonstration of superfluorescence from assemblies of perovskite quantum dots (PQDs).1 

Superfluorescence, a quantum collective phenomenon, occurs when excitons (electron-hole pairs within the nanocrystals) align and emit light in phase, creating a coherent burst of intense light.1 We hypothesise that this collective effect also enhances the emission cross-section, allowing for more efficient laser devices even in the case of fast dephasing, with potential for significantly improved performance in both classical and quantum photonics.1

Building on recent advances,2,3 this research project will focus on the synthesis, assembly, and characterization of perovskite nanocrystals organized into supracrystals, hierarchical structures where the nanocrystals act as "nanobricks." These supracrystals are highly ordered, densely packed assemblies that allow to investigate and exploit collective optical behaviours, such as superfluorescence and laser oscillation.1, 4 The overarching goal of the project is to fabricate and study these supracrystals to achieve superior light emission properties, reducing laser threshold requirements and advancing the state-of-the-art for fast, ultra-bright photonic sources. If successful, the project outcomes could benefit applications in optical communications, nanoscale sensing, and quantum photonics for next-generation computing and precision metrology.

Key objectives for this project include:

• Synthesis and characterization of perovskite nanocrystals and supracrystals: the student will develop and refine protocols for synthesizing perovskite quantum dots, followed by their controlled self-assembly into supracrystals.
• Demonstrating superfluorescence and laser oscillation: by carefully characterizing the photophysical properties of these supracrystals, the project aims to achieve superfluorescence and explore its enhancement via the cavity effect of a supracrystal. Laser oscillation will also be targeted, with a focus on achieving lower emission thresholds to facilitate highly efficient laser sources suitable for both classical and quantum optical applications.
• Investigating lead-free perovskite alternatives: to address environmental concerns associated with traditional lead-based perovskites, the project will explore the synthesis and integration of lead-free perovskite materials, such as CsCuX₃ (X = halide). This aspect will examine whether these materials can match the performance metrics of their lead-based counterparts, contributing to the development of safer, sustainable photonic devices.

The student will work within two research groups at Strathclyde (the Colloidal Photonics team at the Institute of Photonics and the Smart Materials Research Device Technology (SMaRDT) group in the Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry) specializing in the synthesis of perovskite materials, quantum dots, and the photonics of supraparticle/supracrystals structures. This will provide a strong interdisciplinary foundation, enabling fine control over nanocrystal properties and assembly techniques. Leveraging expertise in material functionalization and nanoscale control, the project will push the boundaries of what is possible with perovskite supracrystals, paving the way for more efficient, robust, and scalable photonic devices.

Ultimately, this project will contribute to the broader effort of advancing perovskite-based technologies for next-generation photonic and quantum applications.

Further information

EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Applied Quantum Technologies