معرفی
Duncan McArthur is a Research Fellow in the Department of Physics at the University of Strathclyde's Faculty of Science, specializing in quantum communication systems and light-matter interactions with chiral nanostructures. His work bridges theoretical physics and experimental quantum technologies for satellite-based applications.
He earned his PhD in Physics from the University of Strathclyde in 2018 with the thesis "Applications of principal modes to imaging, control and surface enhancement in nanoparticles". His educational background includes advanced training in electromagnetic theory and nanophotonics.
McArthur's research centers on quantum key distribution (QKD) for satellite networks and chiral light-matter interactions. He develops theoretical frameworks for finite-key satellite QKD performance under atmospheric constraints and investigates Rayleigh-Brillouin optical activity for chiral molecule analysis. His nanophotonics work focuses on UV-range spontaneous emission enhancement using plasmonic structures and quantum vacuum engineering, with applications in single-molecule detection and quantum sensing. Recent projects explore chiral optical forces inspired by biological systems like Velella velella.
Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals two dominant research thrusts: (1) Satellite quantum communication (7 papers 2020-2025) addressing payload design (ROKS), finite-key security, and orbital optimization, and (2) Chiral photonics (5 papers 2023-2025) establishing new spectroscopic tools for molecular chirality. His earlier work (2017-2019) laid foundations in UV plasmonics and light scattering from nanostructures.
McArthur has secured significant research funding as co-investigator on four major projects:
- Chiral Molecules and their Interaction with Light (EPSRC, 2024-2027)
- ROKS Payload Flight Model (UK Space Agency, 2021-2022)
- ViSatQT: Viable Satellite QKD Technologies (ISCF Airbus, 2020-2021)
- EPSRC Doctoral Training Grant (2012-2018)
He actively collaborates with Strathclyde's quantum technology group and international partners including Airbus and UK Space Agency. Current work focuses on space-qualified quantum payloads and developing Rayleigh optical activity as a practical chiral analysis tool, with potential applications in pharmaceutical development and quantum-secure global communications infrastructure.
