Theory and simulation of the ferro-electric nematic phase

Liquid crystals turn up everywhere. They are the main constituent of displays, they are used in television screens and many health care products are liquid crystalline. The most common liquid crystalline phase is the nematic, where molecules align along a common direction, but are equally likely to point up or down. The positional order resembles that of a normal liquid and the system also flows, very much like a liquid. Recently a new type of nematic phase, the ferro-electric or N_F phase, has been found, where the molecules all point, on average, along the same direction [1 - 3]. If the molecules have dipoles, a sample will have a large, net polarisation that gives it fascinating properties and many possible new applications. Because of this, there has been much research activity in this area in recent years, but what is still not understood, however, is why this phase forms. This project aims to tackle this issue. The research will involve the theory and simulation (Monte Carlo and/or Molecular Dynamics) of simplified models [4] such as crop up in colloidal suspensions. Examples of such models are hard spherocylinders and hard spheroids with additional longer-range interactions due to embedded charges. Please note that no modelling of realistic molecular models is envisaged, as the aim is to capture the essential features responsible for this phase, which are anticipated to give rise to this phase and which may subsequently be synthesised on the colloidal scale for experimental verification of our predictions. As well as yielding insights into the driving forces for N_F phase formation, the simplicity of the models will permit large-scale simulations that can probe the bulk properties of the phase, such as its response to an electric field and its surface interactions, thereby paving the way for possible future applications.

The duration of the PhD is 4 years. The proposed start date is September 2024.

Eligibility

Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s in a relevant science or engineering related discipline. They should have a strong background in statistical mechanics and in computer programming.

Before you apply

We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisor to discuss the application before you apply. The email address for Prof Andrew Masters is [Email Address Removed].

How to apply

To be considered for this project you’ll need to complete a formal application through our online application portal.

When you apply, you will be asked to upload the following supporting documents: 

• Final Transcript and certificates of all awarded university level qualifications

• Interim Transcript of any university level qualifications in progress

• CV

• You will be asked to supply contact details for two referees on the application form (please make sure that the contact email you provide is an official university/ work email address as we may need to verify the reference)

• English Language certificate (if applicable)

If you have any questions about making an application, please contact our admissions team by emailing [Email Address Removed].

Funding

At Manchester we offer a range of scholarships, studentships and awards at university, faculty and department level, to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers.

For more information, visit our funding page or search our funding database for specific scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

Self funded students are also welcome to apply.

Equality, diversity and inclusion

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities. We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact.

We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status.

We also support applications from those returning from a career break or other roles. We consider offering flexible study arrangements (including part-time: 50%, 60% or 80%, depending on the project/funder).