VC International Scholarship in Physical Sciences - Understanding carrier dynamics in CuInZnS3 quantum dots toward high-performance indoor photovoltaics

CuInZnS3 quantum dots (CIZS QDs) is a non-toxic and phosphide free material which has a significant potential for wearable PVs and indoor PVs. However, due to its emission properties dominated by defects, its carrier dynamics are more complicated than binary metal chalcogenides and are not yet well understood. For instance, the origin of the light emission broadening is still unclear, with mechanisms of poly-disperse size distribution and sub-bandgap states. The investigation of carrier dynamics in the ensemble, and within single dot emission spectroscopy not only can help us to understand the challenge of PL spectra broadening but also can provide deep insight regarding the band structures and carrier dynamics within this quaternary QDs. In this project, we will synthesize CIZS QDs through continuous-flow approach, which is considered as the most promising techniques for large-scale colloidal fabrication. Moreover, we will use the cutting-edge laser micro-spectroscopy and ultrafast optical spectroscopy to investigate the emission line-shape and carrier dynamics of ensembles and single dots. [DOI 10.1021/acs.nanolett.8b03027, 10.1021/acs.jpclett.9b01824].
The project can provide excellent opportunities for developing countries to build health condition tracking networks powered by low-cost indoor or building-integrated solar cells which can substantially benefit their sustainable development goals in Well-Being.

Start date: January 2021

Applicants must be nationals of (or permanently domiciled in) from the world’s Least Developed and Other Low Income Countries based on the DAC list of ODA Recipients 2020 (list of eligible countries are listed below).

Applicants must:

• meet the entrance criteria for your chosen PhD programme
• be liable to pay overseas tuition fees
• not have been awarded another scholarship covering both tuition fees and stipend.

For further information and eligibility, please see: https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/international/funding-and-fees/international-scholarships/vice-chancellors-international-scholarships-for-research-excellence


How to Apply:

Applicants should submit an application for postgraduate study via the Cardiff University webpages (https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research/programmes/programme/physics-and-astronomy) including:

• an upload of your CV
• a personal statement/covering letter
• two references
• Current academic transcripts

Applicants should select Doctor of Philosophy, with a start date of January 2021

In the research proposal section of your application, please specify the project title and supervisors of this project and copy the project description in the text box provided. In the funding section, please specify that you wish to be considered for the ‘V-C’s International Scholarships for Research Excellence’

Candidates should hold a good bachelor’s degree (first or upper second-class honours degree) or a MSc degree in Physics or a related subject.

Applicants whose first language is not English will be required to demonstrate proficiency in the English language (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent).