Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Optics and Photonics

The PhD in Optics and Photonics at MMU prepares researchers to contribute original, high-impact knowledge in the rapidly advancing field of light science and engineering. Doctoral candidates are expected to pursue novel investigations in areas such as quantum optics, optical materials, photonic integrated circuits, laser physics, fiber technology, and computational imaging.

Students receive rigorous training in research methods, experimental techniques, scientific communication, and academic publishing, culminating in a doctoral thesis. The program supports both academic and industry-focused tracks, with opportunities to collaborate with global labs and participate in international conferences.

(i) Holders of a Master of Science degree in Applied Optics or Master of Science in

Laser Technology from MMU or any other University recognized by the senate of

MMU.

(ii) Holders of a Master of Science degree in Physics or its equivalent from MMU or any other University recognized by the senate of MMU or any other institution recognized by University Senate.

  • Research Fellow
  • University Lecturer/Professor
  • Lead R&D Scientist
  • Principal Investigator in Government Labs
  • Innovation Lead in Telecoms or Healthcare Tech
  • Technology Policy Advisor
  • Entrepreneur in Optical and Quantum Technologies
  • Quantum Optics and Information
  • Photonic Devices and Integration
  • Biomedical Photonics
  • Optical Metrology and Instrumentation
  • Nonlinear and Ultrafast Optics
  • Fiber Optics and Optical Communications
  • Optical Materials and Thin Films
  • Computational Photonics and AI in Optics
  • Support for global collaboration and exchange programs with international partners such as Max Planck Institute of Science of Light and OPTICA.
  • Supervision by leading faculty and researchers from NIOL
  • Access to advanced labs and computational resources
  • Industry-research linkages with firms like Vilcom, Safaricom, and government R&D institutions
  • Publication and conference funding through Optica and SPIE

Graduates can pursue Postdoctoral Fellowships in:

  • Quantum Optics and Information
  • Photonic Devices and Integration
  • Biomedical Photonics
  • Optical Metrology and Instrumentation
  • Nonlinear and Ultrafast Optics
  • Fiber Optics and Optical Communications
  • Optical Materials and Thin Films
  • Computational Photonics and AI in Optics