Next generation optical-based magnetic sensors using magnetochromic composites

History and purpose

A fully funded PhD scholarship in Physics is available for research into developing a new class of magnetochromic composites for fibre-optics based magnetic field sensors. The successful candidate will join the world leading Robinson Research Institute [1] at Victoria University of Wellington (VUW) at Lower Hutt, New Zealand.

The candidate will undertake materials preparation using solid-state chemistry, thin film fabrication, and ion-implantation, as well as assist in the setting up of a magneto-optical test rig on the Quantum Design physical property measurement system (PPMS). The materials will be characterised and studied by x-ray diffraction, magnetic force microscopy (MFM), SEM, TEM, magnetometer, and physical property measurement system (PPMS). Access to additional resources is available through our affiliation with the MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology [2]. 

This PhD project is part of a newly funded New Zealand Marsden research programme on ‘Next generation magneto-piezochromic composites for optically based intelligent magnetic field sensing’, which involved researchers from Victoria University of Wellington, GNS Science, and University of Boudreaux.  The successful candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to the fundamental understanding of the intrinsic properties that enable the magneto-piezochromic effect (similar to a magnetoelectric effect) plus investigate ways to optimize the stress-strain transfer between the magnetostrictive and piezochromic phases. There is also the opportunity for the candidate to travel abroad to attend international conferences and work with researchers from other parts of New Zealand. We will also consider an MSc project on the same proposed work for a suitable candidate.

Eligibility

Applicants should have a degree equivalent to the 4-year Physics (Honours) degree in New Zealand, with 1st class Honours, or an MSc or postgraduate Diploma with high grades. We are seeking a highly motivated person with an excellent academic record, a good understanding of materials science/physics, and able to work well in a team. Candidates should satisfy the requirements for admission as a PhD candidate at Victoria University and applicants should ensure that they can satisfy the English language requirements [3].

Total value and tenure

The successful PhD applicant will receive a stipend of $27,500 per annum for 3 years, as well as payment of all university tuition fees. For Masters student, that will be $17k scholarship plus fees (New Zealand resident rates) for one year.

How to apply

Please send an email to Prof. Grant Williams (Grant.Williams@vuw.ac.nz) and Dr. Shen Chong (shen.chong@vuw.ac.nz) with PhD scholarship in “Next generation optical-based magnetic sensors using magnetochromic composites” in the subject line. Please include the following information,

·        A full curriculum vitae, including your university transcripts,

·        A statement detailing why you are interested in this project

·        The names of at least two people who are prepared to act as referees,

·        Evidence of your English language ability,

·        Your expected starting date.

References

[1] https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/robinson

[2] https://www.macdiarmid.ac.nz/

[3] https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/fgr/prospective-phds/qualifications-required

Decision makers:

Applications will be considered by the project leaders Dr Shen Chong and Prof Grant Williams who may consult as appropriate.

Further Information:

Further information can be obtained from and Dr. Shen Chong (shen.chong@vuw.ac.nz) & RRI Postgraduate Administrator (RRI-postgrad@vuw.ac.nz). Applicants should submit a resume, academic record and the names and contact details of two referees with an email subject line “PhD in magnetochromic composites”.