Nanoscale synthesis of new 2D materials for advanced flexible electronics

Project team: Dr Matt Cole & Dr Adelina Ilie

Project enquiries: [Email Address Removed]

Interfacing between the Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, and the Centre for Biosensors, Bioelectronics and Biodevices, the Vacuum Nano Electronics Research group headed by Dr. Cole is a dynamic, multi-disciplinary, applied research group producing globally impactful technological solutions through the development of applied nanotechnologies, leveraging unique 2D and 1D nanomaterial growth reactors and in-house measurement tools. This expertise is complemented through a synergetic relationship with Dr Ilie’s group in Physics, with its international reputation in both fundamental science of 2D materials and their translational applications.

Nanotechnology continues to dramatically shape the modern world. Materials can now be grown atom-by-atom, targeting applications with entirely new forms and function. 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 and scaling the growth of these new materials, many of which have yet to be produced in the laboratory.

This project will explore 2D nanomaterial growth beyond graphene, focussing on materials that would revolutionise the semiconductor industry if produced on a large scale: e.g. materials that, unlike graphene, possess an electronic band-gap, while preserving graphene’s unique properties. Using the Nano Lab’s chemical vapour deposition reactors, the applicant will develop commercially viable and scalable transfer methodologies of the as-grown materials. Co-supervision with Dr Ilie will enable access to state-of-the-art scanning probe microscopes for investigation and correlation of atomic and electronic structure of the synthesised materials, directly demonstrating wide ranging unique physical phenomena.

The successful candidate will be interested in nanomaterials and nanotechnology with a preference for experimental work. A hands-on approach and a background in nanomaterial growth or advanced metrology are advantageous, though not essential. The student will have the opportunity to design entirely new experiments; and will develop a balanced range of nanomaterial growth and physical characterisation, device integration, and measurements skills, through engagements across multiple University departments, and with international collaborators in China and the USA, as well as London, Oxford and Cambridge.

CANDIDATE:
The successful applicant will ideally have graduated (or be due to graduate) with a Masters degree (first class or upper second-class) or MSc distinction (or overseas equivalent) in electrical engineering, materials science, engineering, physics, chemistry, natural sciences, or related discipline. English language entry requirements must be met at the time of application to be considered for funding, see http://www.bath.ac.uk/study/pg/apply/english-language/index.html

APPLICATIONS:
Formal applications should be made via the University of Bath’s online application form for a PhD in Electronic & Electrical Engineering. Please ensure that you state the full project title and lead supervisor name on the application form:

https://samis.bath.ac.uk/urd/sits.urd/run/siw_ipp_lgn.login?process=siw_ipp_app&code1=RDUEE-FP01&code2=0014

This project is eligible for inclusion in three funding rounds, subject to funding availability. Application deadlines: Wednesday 27 November 2019, Wednesday 29 January 2020 & Wednesday 25 March 2020. Early submission is advised. A full application must have been submitted before inclusion in a funding round.

Anticipated start date: 28 September 2020