Superhydrophobic Materials Discovery

The Department of Chemistry at the University of Liverpool seeks applications for a post-graduate PhD studentship starting in late 2017. This projects is based in the Materials Innovation Factory, under the supervision of Dr. Colin Crick.

Project: Superhydrophobic surfaces are a class of materials which have specifically designed morphologies and chemistries, providing highly water repellent properties. These materials show a high potential for real-world applications in many areas, including; self-cleaning, antimicrobials, water purification and drag reduction. Provided their possible uses, there is a current lack of commercial technologies utilising this technology. This originates from the key challenge posed by these materials, relating to the enhancement of their robustness, whilst ensuring chemical and mechanical compatibility with their desired function. This project focuses on the discovery of novel superhydrophobic materials, subsequent probing surface structure and chemical composition, and correlation to their functional properties. Further optimisation will provide the opportunity to explore their real-world applications, and interaction with industrial partners.

The studentship includes a commitment to work up to 144 hours per academic year to help with teaching-related activities in modules currently taught in the Department of Chemistry, as assigned by the Head of Department or his representative.

The candidate will receive extensive training in materials fabrication and characterisation, including; precursor synthesis, nanofabrication techniques, and coatings technologies. The candidate will gain widely applicable skills and understanding, providing a solid foundation for his/her future career.