Growth of 2D Electronics: Development of van der Walls heterostructures for flexible and transparent electronics

The department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering at the University of Bath is inviting applications for the following fully funded PhD project, expected to commence in October 2022.

Project

Nanotechnology continues to dramatically shape the modern world. Materials can now be grown at the atomic scale allowing targeted applications that are rationally designed from the bottom up. Graphene and other emerging 2D nanomaterials present exciting platforms upon which to build next generation electronics; from flexible transparent circuits for healthcare monitoring, to new forms of nano-electronic switching devices, their unique properties have unprecedented potential across many industries. Nevertheless, much work remains on understanding the growth of these new materials, many of which have yet to be produced in the laboratory.

This fully funded studentship is part industry funded. Working in the Vacuum Nano Electronics (VNE) research group, and part funded by Oxford Instruments Plasma Technology, the successful applicant will join a dynamic, multi-disciplinary team whilst benefitting from close engagement with industry. The VNE groups applied nanomaterials research produce globally impactful technological solutions through the development and deployment of applied nanotechnologies.

Focussing in the first instance on the growth of, and subsequent heterostructure engineering using, borophene, MoS2 and WS2, this studentship will explore the broader growth of transition metal dichalcogenide 2D nanomaterials. New synthesis routes including metal-organic CVD, plasma enhanced CVD and thermal CVD, will be explored as well as the development of new catalysts and precursors towards the production of a range of beyond-graphene 2D materials using the University’s extensive growth equipment. The applicant will undertake state-of-the-art atomic and electronic structure measurements and will create entirely unique electron transport properties based on the integration of a variety of newly synthesised 2D materials. Exploring the fundamental growth process and the development of new electronics, this industry-supported project is highly inter-disciplinary and will see the applicant will work closely with the Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, the Department of Physics, and the Department of Chemistry, as well as spending research periods supporting technology transfer embedded within industry.

Candidate Requirements

The successful candidate will be interested in materials synthesis and nanotechnology, with a preference for experimental work. A hands-on approach and a background in catalysis, vacuum systems, nanomaterial growth or advanced metrology are advantageous, though not essential. The student will undertake experimental design and will develop a balanced range of skills in state-of-the-art growth, characterisation, precursor development, nanofabrication and electrical measurement techniques.

Applicants should hold, or expect to receive, a First Class or Upper Second Class Honours degree (or the equivalent) in a relevant subject. A master’s level qualification would also be advantageous.

Non-UK applicants must meet our English language entry requirement.

Enquiries and Applications

Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to Dr Matthew Cole - m.t.cole@bath.ac.uk

Formal applications should be made via the University of Bath’s online application form for a PhD in Electronic and Electrical Engineering.

More information about applying for a PhD at Bath may be found on our website.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

We value a diverse research environment and aim to be an inclusive university, where difference is celebrated and respected. We welcome and encourage applications from under-represented groups.

If you have circumstances that you feel we should be aware of that have affected your educational attainment, then please feel free to tell us about it in your application form. The best way to do this is a short paragraph at the end of your personal statement.

Keywords

nanomaterials, 2D materials, applied material science, nanoelectronics, Applied Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Chemical Physics, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Materials Science, Metallurgy, Nanotechnology, Physical Chemistry, Synthetic Chemistry, Experimental Physics, Solid State Physics