The potential of the acoustic cavitation phenomenon for formation of semiconductor heterojunctions in nanodispersions from initial single semiconductor nanoparticles

Enthusiastic graduates are invited to apply for a 42-month PhD studentship available at the Department of Chemistry, University of Liverpool, UK, from 1st October 2016. The studentship covers tuition fees and the PhD stipend of £14,057 for 2015/2016 with rises anticipated in future years.
Project:
This PhD program aspires to bring together recent achievements in the fields of nanotechnology, sonochemistry and nanostructured semiconductor synthesis to develop leading edge technologies for light-driven hydrogen production. We propose to explore the potential of the acoustic cavitation phenomenon for formation of semiconductor heterojunctions in nanodispersions from initial single semiconductor nanoparticles. The rapid collapse (108 s) of the cavitation microbubble results in the conversion of the surface energy, kinetic energy of liquid motion into heat and chemical energy leading to the development of high temperatures (>3000 °C) and pressures (>500 atm) locally inside these microbubbles. Due to the high speed of cavitation, the initial semiconductor nanoparticles are ordered at the cavitation interfaces as ultra-highly compressed layer subjected to the rapid high-temperature heating with subsequent cooling. The proposal will lead directly to new materials and, more critically, provide a new widely applicable facile method of the synthesis photoactive semiconductor heterojunctions.

During the work on the project, the candidate will acquire knowledge in sonochemical synthesis, chemistry and physics of complex semiconductor nanomaterials and core-shell structures. Additional training will be provided in transient laser spectroscopy and photochemistry. The studentship will also establish the multidisciplinary collaboration with Prof. Timothy Mason, Head of European Sonochemical Society, director of Sonochemistry Centre, Coventry University. The knowledge and skills developed will provide the candidate with a solid foundation for his/her future academic or industrial career in materials and renewable energy.
Requirements and eligibility:
We are looking for creative and highly motivated graduates with Master degree in Chemistry (First or Upper Second class). Excellent experimental skills and knowledge of inorganic, polymer or materials chemistry are required; a background in photocatalysis would be an advantage.
Applications from candidates meeting the eligibility requirements of the EPSRC are welcome – please refer to the http://www.epsrc.ac.uk/skills/students/help/eligibility/.

Applications should be made as soon as possible and no later than 10th August 2016. Applicants should send a cover letter outlining motivation and suitability for this project, and a full CV with the names of two referees to Prof. Dmitry Shchukin ([Email Address Removed]) and Dr. Alex Cowan ([Email Address Removed]).