As indoor environments generate over 80% of global data traffic, next-generation networks urgently require high-capacity, ultra-reliable indoor connectivity. Optical wireless communication (OWC) and LiFi offer vast optical bandwidth for 6G applications but remain constrained by limited device bandwidth, power, and non-ideal channel conditions; challenges are amplified in multi-user systems where interference degrades performance.

This project introduces a transformative approach; an integrated photonics-enabled platform that unifies communication, sensing, and localization within a single indoor optical system. By deploying spatially distributed transmitter arrays combined with advanced imaging photonic front ends, the system delivers robust, high-speed connectivity while simultaneously performing accurate environmental sensing and high-precision (cm range accuracy) user localization.

Based in Glasgow’s Technology and Innovation Centre, home to the Institute of Photonics and Fraunhofer UK, you will join a world-class research hub at the heart of the city’s Innovation District.

As a PhD researcher, you will benefit from:

• access to cutting-edge laboratories and expert academic and industrial supervision.
• collaboration with leading scientists, engineers, and industry partners.
• professional and personal development through training and leadership programmes.
• opportunities to present research at international conferences.

This PhD combines advanced academic research with industry-driven innovation, preparing you for a career at the forefront of photonics and communication engineering. You will be based at the University of Strathclyde, with excellent opportunities to collaborate closely with the industrial partner, Fraunhofer UK.

Institute of Photonics

The Institute of Photonics (IoP), part of the Department of Physics, is a centre of excellence in applications-oriented research at the University of Strathclyde.  The Institute’s key objective is to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial applications and development in the area of photonics. The IoP is located in the £100M Technology and Innovation Centre on Strathclyde’s Glasgow city centre campus, at the heart of Glasgow’s Innovation District, where it is co-located with the UK’s first Fraunhofer Research Centre.

Researchers at the IoP are active in a broad range of photonics fields under the areas of Photonic Devices, Advanced Lasers and Neurophotonics.

Strathclyde Physics is a member of SUPA, the Scottish Universities Physics Alliance.

The University of Strathclyde has been the recipient of the following awards: UK University of the Year 2026 (Daily Mail University Guide); Scottish University of the Year 2026 (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide); The Queen’s Anniversary Prizes for Higher and Further Education 1996, 2019.