Postgraduate Scholarship in simulation and theory of new magnetoelectric materials

A funded PhD position is available in the field of theory and simulation of materials, exploring the design and fundamental understanding of new magnetoelectrics.

Magnetoelectric materials display a coupling between their spin and electrical polarisation. It has been widely recognised that this unique characteristic could lead to new or improved electronic devices but the microscopic origin of magnetoelectricity is often so complex that theory-led design has been challenging. This project aims to provide a universal framework to describe the coupling mechanisms in order to predict new magnetoelectric compounds. We will adopt a state-of-the-art approach combining group theoretical analyses with first principles simulations.

The successful candidate will be based at the University of Kent’s main campus in Canterbury as part of the Materials for Energy and Electronics (MEE) Group (https://research.kent.ac.uk/mee/), within the School of Physical Sciences. This is a rapidly growing department offering a fresh and exciting research environment, whose multidisciplinary expertise and wide variety of advanced instrumentation is an excellent match to the project - any predictions made will be scrutinised by experimental collaborators within the MEE group, which may lead to revision of the underlying theory.

This PhD Studentship is due to start in September 2020.

Webpage(s): https://www.kent.ac.uk/physical-sciences/staff/profiles/academics/nicholas-bristowe.html
Contact: For further information or informal enquiries, please contact Nick Bristowe at [Email Address Removed].

Entry requirements and Funding: Applicants should have or expect to obtain a first or upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in Physics or Chemistry, or a related subject.

How to Apply: : To apply please go to [https://www.kent.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate/18/chemistry]
You will need to apply through the online application form on the main University website. Please note that you will be expected to provide personal details, education and employment history and supporting documentation (Curriculum Vitae, transcript of results, two academic references).