Chemical and biological nano sensors for biomedicine and the environment

Supervisor: Prof. Antonios Kanaras
Co-supervisor : Prof. Otto Muskens

Project description
PhD studentship in the LICNA group (www.licn.phys.soton.ac.uk).

Sensors are systems that can detect the presence of specific molecules usually via an optoelectronic signal. Typical characteristics that need to be controlled to make a good sensor include the signal to noise ratio, cost, selectivity, detection limit and durability.

In this project the aim is to develop a range of new optical sensors made from nanoparticles and 2d materials that they will be used to detect the smallest amounts of molecules related to various diseases and contaminated environments. The successful candidate will gain expertise in the chemical synthesis and surface modification of nanoparticles, and the design of chemical systems to sense molecules of importance. They will also gain expertise to a vast range of techniques including electron and optical microscopies.

Candidates should have a degree in one of the following disciplines: chemistry, physics, biology or materials. More information related to the project can be found to the following papers (ACS Nano, 2018, 12 (6), pp 6273–6279; ACS Sens. 2017, 2 (1), 52-56; ACS Appl. Mater. Interfaces 2015, 7 (23), 12422-12429).

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Prof. Antonios Kanaras, QLM Research Group, Email: [Email Address Removed] Tel: +44 (0) 2380 59 2466.

Entry Requirements
A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: applications should be received no later than 31 August 2020 for standard admissions, but later applications may be considered depending on the funds remaining in place.

Funding: full tuition fees for EU/UK students plus for UK students, an enhanced stipend of £15,009 tax-free per annum for up to 3.5 years.
How To Apply

Applications should be made online here selecting “PhD Physics (Full time)” as the programme. Please enter Prof. Antonios Kanaras under the proposed supervisor.

Applications should include:
Research Proposal (optional)
Curriculum Vitae
Two reference letters
Degree Transcripts to date
Apply online: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/courses/how-to-apply/postgraduate-applications.page

For further information please contact: [Email Address Removed]