Enhancing graphene-based sensors with metal-organic nanosheets, 3.5 years PhD studentship, Oct 2020 start

Are you interested in using cutting edge two-dimensional materials and advanced spectroscopic techniques to create new sensors?

Every atom in graphene is exposed to its environment which makes it ideal for creating ultrasensitive sensors for detecting diseases, monitoring pollutants, testing nutrient levels and sniffing out explosives. However, because graphene is just made of carbon atoms, it is difficult to achieve high levels of selectivity in order to distinguish between similar compounds. Metal-organic framework nanosheets (MONs) are an emerging class of two-dimensional materials which combine the diversity of organic chemistry with the uniquie propetries of metal ions. In this project, you will work with Dr Jonathan Foster to develop new MONs functionalised with different chemical groups in order to enhance the selectivity of graphene based sensors.

Understanding how nanomaterials interact with analytes that they are detecting is also a key challenge which limits our ability to inteligently design such sensors. Ultrafast spectroscopy makes use of high power lasers to generate ultra short (10-15 seconds in duration) flashes of light that are used to probe the electronic structure and dynamics of the materials. The recently opened Lord Porter Laser Laboratory at the University of Sheffield is a state-of the art facility which is home to some of the latest time-resolved ultrafast spectroscopy equipment in the world. You will therefore work with Dr Adrien Chauvet to explore the optical and electronic properties of MONs and investigate the surface-analyte interactions of the newly developed sensors.

This PhD is an exciting opportunity to develop an unique combination of skills in the design and synthesis of advanced nanomaterials, the development of sensors and advanced spectroscopic techniques. There is scope to tailor the project to reflect your skills and interests and opportunities to work with a range of academic and industrial collaborators. We are looking for an enthusiastic UK or EU student that has, or expects to receive, a 1st class or 2.1 MChem degree or equivalent in Chemistry, Chemical-physics, Physics, Materials Science or a related subject.

The application deadline is the 1st June 2020. Please contact Dr Adrien Chauvet ([Email Address Removed]) or Dr Jonathan Foster ([Email Address Removed]) for more information and to register your interest.

Please apply online at:
https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/phd/apply/applying

For more information about the project, please contact Dr Adrien Chauvet ([Email Address Removed]) or Dr Jonathan Foster ([Email Address Removed]).