Single Molecule Chemistry: studying single molecules in ultra-small (nanoscale) junctions

This fully funded EPSRC PhD studentship will use sensitive techniques to study single molecules in ultra-small (nanoscale) junctions. We are able to capture molecules, ranging from organic molecular wires to organo-metallic complexes in nano-gap junctions and study their properties. Recently it has become possible to study single molecule chemical transformations and the interaction of such single molecules and the junction contacts with light. This is achieved by using a scanning tunnelling microscope (STM) which provides the ability to form single molecule junctions and to measure the current flow through the molecular bridge.

This work will involve collaborations with our international partners in Boston (USA), Perth (Australia) and Suzhou (China). Collaboration partners in the UK include groups in Oxford, Lancaster, Bristol and Durham. This is a research area in which we are internationally leading and the project offers potential for publications in leading journals. Future areas of application of this work include technologies where understanding molecular charge transfer is central, which includes very sensitive electrochemical sensors, molecular photovoltaics, organic displays and molecular electronics.

We are a currently a research group of ten people with activities in single molecule science, microscopies, STM and AFM, electrochemistry, synthesis and molecule electronics. We are able to offer strong support and training to new PhD students in laboratories equipped with state-of-the-art instrumentation for single molecule science.
Further details of our research can be found here:
http://pcwww.liv.ac.uk/~nichols/

Applications are encouraged from highly motivated candidates who have, or expect to have, at least a 2:1 degree or equivalent in Chemistry. The award will pay full tuition fees and a maintenance grant for 3.5 years (currently £14,553 p.a.) and it is anticipated that the successful candidate will start in September 2018.

Applications should be made as soon as possible but no later than 30th April 2018. Informal enquiries are also encouraged and should be addressed to [Email Address Removed]

Applications from candidates meeting the eligibility requirements of the EPSRC are welcome – please refer to the EPSRC website: https://www.epsrc.ac.uk/skills/students/help/eligibility/