PhD in Advanced Materials and Solar Cell Devices (Plasma Science & Nanoscale Engineering Group)

Improving the efficiency of future generation solar cells rely on novel and advanced materials often with nanoscale features. The combination of low-cost metal-oxides with quantum confined group IV semiconducting nanoparticles can offer great opportunities for solar energy harvesting. In particular, the interplay of quantum confinement, surface effects and direct/indirect behaviour can present great challenges and unprecedented opportunities. It follows that the objective of this project is to produce high efficiency photovoltaic devices that are based on group IV nanomaterials and selected metal-oxides.

The candidate applying for this PhD project should have primary interest in at least one of the following aspects with general interest in the others: (i) synthesis and characterization of semiconducting nanomaterials; (ii) fundamental electrical and optical properties of semiconducting nanomaterials; (iii) fabrication and characterization of solar cell devices. The research group has strong emphasis on plasma-based synthesis of nanomaterials and for this reason he/she will be able to develop skills and knowledge that relate to plasma science and technology. Prior knowledge on plasma science and engineering is not required. The PhD project may require the student to spend time (weeks to a few months) at collaborating partners in different countries.

The PhD is funded by the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL, Northern Ireland) and will be tenable in the Faculty of Computing and Engineering at the Jordanstown Campus. Candidates should have ordinary UK residence to be eligible for both fees and maintenance. Non UK residents who hold ordinary EU residence may also apply but if successful will receive fees only. All applicants should hold a first or upper second class honours degree and applications are welcome from graduates of Engineering, Physics, Chemistry or Materials Science.

Applications will be considered on a competitive basis with regard to the candidate’s qualifications, skills experience and interests. Successful candidates will enrol anytime between 1st of May and October 2013, on a full-time programme of research studies leading to the award of the degree of Doctor of Philosophy.

The studentship will comprise fees together with an annual stipend of £13,726 and will be awarded for a period of up to three years subject to satisfactory progress.

The closing date for receipt of completed applications is 11th October 2013.

Interviews will be held during October 2013.

For further information on the project please contact Dr Mariotti ([Email Address Removed])

Apply online www.ulster.ac.uk/applyonline and all supplementary documents (CV and sample publications) uploaded onto the System