Quantum phenomena and energy conversion in two-dimensional materials nanostructures

“(Updated deadline, effective until the position is filled) Fully funded PhD position on Quantum phenomena and energy conversion in two‐dimensional materials and nanostructures. UK-Greece collaboration in European Research Council (ERC) Project

The new PhD project in fundamental and applied physics is announced at Lancaster University Quantum Technologie Centre (LQTC) https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/quantum-technology/research/quantum-nanomechanics/ in collaboration with the National Scientific Research Centre “Demokritos” (NCSRD) in Athens, Greece, https://www.demokritos.gr/institute/institute-of-nanoscience-and-nanotechnology/ and National Graphene Institute (NGI), UK, https://www.graphene.manchester.ac.uk/ngi/ the birthplace of Graphene, as part of the announced collaborative European Research Council project.

The challenging and high-reward PhD project will target fundamental physics in two-dimensional (2D) materials, their nanostructures, and 2D-3D materials devices developing novel principles of advanced quantum and nanoscale energy management devices. In particular, the project will investigate largely unexplored fundamental links between electronic and phononic heat transport, electrical and nanomechanical phenomena, and thermal-electrical-mechanical energy conversion in the 2D nanostructures. The project outcomes will lead to highly efficient thermoelectric and electrocaloric devices, beyond-state-of-the-art on-chip cooling, and highly sensitive photons and phonons detectors, approaching quantum limits.

The successful applicant will work in experimental research at Lancaster University Quantum Technology Centre (LQTC) in one of the world-leading groups in the exploration of physical properties of 2DM’s using scanning probe microscopy (SPM), in direct interaction with NCSRD in Athens, the world leader in molecular beam epitaxy synthesis of 2D materials, and National Graphene Institute producing unique 2D material hetero and nanostructures. The applicant will have the opportunity to spend some time in Athens and at NGI, and collaborate with leading experimental and theoretical scientists in the field. The applicant is expected to have an excellent academic record in the Physics, Material Science or Electrical Engineering, with good experience in advanced experimentation, and good analytical skills.

The Physics Department is in the top 10 of UK Physics Departments (#4 by Guardian and Sunday Times rating and #7 by Good University Guide). It is a holder of Athena SWAN Silver award and Institute of Physics JUNO Championship status and is strongly committed to fostering diversity within its community as a source of excellence, cultural enrichment, and social strength. We welcome those who would contribute to the further diversification of our department.

 The Lancaster Physics Department holds an Athena SWAN silver award and Institute of Physics JUNO Championship status and is strongly committed to fostering inclusion and diversity within its community.

Applicants are expected to have the equivalent of a first (1) or upper second (2.1) degree class in Physics, Electrical Engineering, Materials science, or related disciplines supplemented by a relevant Master's-level qualification or equivalent, supplemented by a relevant Master's-level qualification or equivalent. Potential applicants are invited to apply to the physics department through this link: https://www.lancaster.ac.uk/physics/study/phd/ stating the title of the project and the name of the supervisor.

Contact o.kolosov@lancaster.ac.uk for any additional enquiries.