Coventry University (CU) is inviting applications from suitably-qualified graduates for a fully-funded PhD studentship in partnership with Deakin University in high power Na-ion capacitors for next generation energy storage.
Global efforts to mitigate and limit the impact of climate change and to move to an environmentally sustainable future necessitate the development of new and improved energy storage technologies. Hybrid supercapacitors are novel, promising devices which strive to combine attractive features of both batteries (energy density) and supercapacitor (high rate/power performance). Much work has been done on developing the Li ion capacitor but new sodium- based systems could offer advantages in cost and safety, whilst maintaining other features.
This project has the aim of developing carbon and titanate materials for use in new and novel sodium ion capacitors, moving from the small lab scale through to full prototype devices. Sodium titanates show much potential as electrodes, but are generally hampered by low electronic conductivity. The project will look to address this through materials synthesis considerations such as nanostructuring and doping with transition metal elements, and also through the development of hierarchical particle structures incorporating frameworks such as carbon nanotubes and graphene. The project offers a unique opportunity to gain a deep understanding across all aspects of device development, from fundamental materials synthesis, characterisation and electrochemistry through to prototype development and manufacture using the full capabilities of Coventry University’s new Cell Prototyping laboratory.
This project is offered as part of a collaborative cotutelle program between Coventry and Deakin University (Australia) and the successful candidate will spend 1 year of study at Deakin University and will graduate with a jointly supervised doctoral degree from each institution.
Applicants must meet the admission and scholarship criteria for both Coventry University and Deakin University for entry to the cotutelle programme.
This includes;
- Applicants should have graduated within the top 15% of their undergraduate cohort. This might include a high 2:1 in a relevant discipline/subject area with a minimum 70% mark (80% for Australian graduates) in the project element or equivalent with a minimum 70% overall module average (80% for Australian graduates).
- A Masters degree in a relevant subject area, with overall mark at minimum Merit level. In addition, the mark for the Masters dissertation (or equivalent) must be a minimum of 80%. Please note that where a candidate has 70-79% and can provide evidence of research experience to meet equivalency to the minimum first-class honours equivalent (80%+) additional evidence can be submitted and may include independently peer-reviewed publications, research-related awards or prizes and/or professional reports.
- Language proficiency (IELTS overall minimum score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each component).
- The potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within a prescribed period of study.
For an overview of each University’s entry requirements please visit:
https://www.coventry.ac.uk/research/research-opportunities/research-students/cotutelle-phd-programmes/
https://www.deakin.edu.au/research/become-a-research-student/research-degree-entry-pathways
Prior experience in nanomaterials or electrochemistry would be beneficial.
Must be willing and able to spend 1 year at Deakin University (Australia) as part of their study.
To apply online please visit: https://pgrplus.coventry.ac.uk/
All applications require full supporting documentation and a covering letter, including supporting statement indicating how the applicant’s expertise and interests link to the project. Applicants should also apply separately to Deakin University online at and select Prof. Patrick Howlett as potential supervisor at : https://www.deakin.edu.au/ifm/find-a-research-supervisor?page=2
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