3.5-Year PhD Studentship in Quasi-1D Nanomaterials for Controllable Quantum Computing
This project is with the Centre for Doctoral Training in Molecular Modelling and Material Science. Developing nanoribbons at UCL for a year, then integrading into quantum computer components in A*STAR in Singapore for two years, before returning to UCL for 6 months. The UCL component will involve developing nanoribbons with modified basal plane chemistries while still retaining its ability to ribbonise. You will learn cyrstal synthesis, advanced materials processing/characterisation, and glass-blowing. The second section (years 2-3) will be spent with Dr Aaron Lau in A*STAR Singapore, learning about quantum computing and trialling the utlity of our newly developed nanoribbons to store quibits (ask Aaron about that part as it is physics way beyond my chemistry/materials remit).
Application details found on FindaPhD and the dealine is April 15th 2024. If you have any questions, please do email me.
4 Year PhD Studentship in Controlling Group 15 Alloy Nanoribbons
This project, part of the EPSRC DTP scheme, is a 4-year funded position open to students globaly (n.b., only 30% of possitions in the wider DTP scheme can be allocated to international students, with 70% for UK/Irish nationals and EU students with settled/pre-settled status).
Group 15 nanoribbons are a new and unique family of atomically flat nanomaterials tens of nanometres wide with remarkably high electron, hole, and ion mobility, combined with a controllable band gap and unique magnetic edge states. We recently discovered that alloying phosphorus nanoribbons with arsenic dramatically decreased the bandgap to amplify conductivity and room temperature, while modifying the magnetic edges. Here, we will be looking to broaden the nanoribbon properties through controlling their synthesis. In particular, we will look to expand the possible elements available beyond P and As (e.g. Sb, Bi, Ge/Se, Sn/Te), control the stoichiometry, and influence the atomic distribution. Beyond, the dimensions of the nanoribbons – particularly the width – dictate the optoelectronic properties, providing another challenging parameter to control. As the work will cover the materials throughout its journey from precursor to final application, a wide array of techniques will be used.
The synthesis of the layered crystal precursor will require learning solid state and vapour transport crystal growth (including glassblowing and furnace work), the ribbonisation will involve cryogenic ammonia handling and electrochemistry, and air-free chemical handling will be required throughout. Many characterisation tools will be necessary, including transmission electron microscopy, probe microscopies, diffraction (X-ray and neutron) techniques, magnetometry (SQUID) and spectroscopies (particularly Raman and X-ray photoelectron). The research will be undertaken at UCL Chemistry, supervised by Dr Adam Clancy (nanomaterials, materials characterisation) and the excellent Prof Andrea Sella. The work will involve collaboration internally (Physics and Chemical Engineering) and with institutions throughout the UK. The research would best fit a student looking for a wide ranging experimental PhD, with an interest in inorganic or materials chemistry, but no previous experience in these areas is required.
Find more information here. Deadline 8th Jan 2024
Self-Funded PhD Positions
We currently have scope to take one self-funded PhD positions to start in 2024. Please contact Adam at a.clancy[at]ucl.ac.uk to discuss projects