PhD in Chemistry: Functional Molecular Materials

This project will develop methods for the fabrication of molecular thin films capable of covering large surface areas. They will be constructed from switchable molecular materials that can change their colour and structural properties in response to changing temperature, pressure, light irradiation etc. These thin films will be patterned using a low-power laser to form metasurfaces that can be easily erased and re-written.

These metasurfaces will be used to modulate electromagnetic radiation, enabling control over the deflection, reflection and transmission of these waves. The project will involve development of new synthetic techniques for synthesis of molecular materials that could be easily scaled up for industrial application. There will also be a significant element of characterisation of these films using spectroscopy and microscopy, diffraction, magnetometry and thermal analysis. Proof-of-concept devices will be fabricated and demonstration of their ability to interact with radiation will be demonstrated.  

Criteria

• The University of Kent invites applications for a full-time PhD studentship commencing in September 2021. 
• We are looking for excellent students with a good Honours degree (First or 2i), preferably an MChem, MPhys, MSci or a Master’s degree at Merit or Distinction in a relevant subject, or equivalent. 
• Successful candidates will demonstrate academic excellence and outstanding research potential. 
• Open to Home and Overseas (including EU) students. To be classed as a Home student, candidates must meet the RCUK residency criteria, see appendix B.

UK residential conditions:

• Be a UK National (meeting UKRI residency requirements), or
• Have settled status, or
• Have pre-settled status (meeting residency requirement) or
• Have indefinite leave to remain or enter