Self-powered communicating devices with nanomaterials based energy storage

Recent progress in functional nanomaterials, including conducting, insulating and semiconducting materials has opened up possibilities for the development of solution-processed printed device circuits. Combining traditional ink-jet printing with these materials creates new and exciting possibilities for circuit designs that are transparent, flexible, span large areas, are fully integrated, and self-powered. This technology is particularly well-suited for radio-frequency and microwave circuit design for next generation wireless devices as they can potentially be used to realise inexpensive reconfigurable antennas, reflectors, integrated switches and logic in low-power consumption and energy-harvesting packaging. All of which will be necessary to support the billions of new sensors and devices forecast to be part of the Internet-of-Things.
In this project, we will aim to develop communicating devices utilising printable functional nanomaterials. Devices will be energy-efficient and self-powered due to integrated energy harvesting technologies, coupled with on-board energy storage with thin batteries and supercapacitors. The project will involve screening and characterisation of nanomaterials, device fabrication and testing and energy storage optimisation.

Applicant Specifications:
• good undergraduate or masters degree and strong background in either of the disciplines: electronic engineering, physical chemistry, materials, physics
• good hands-on and analytical skills
• demonstrated excellent aptitude for research

Contacts and how to apply:
Candidates are asked to contact Dr Maxim Shkunov in the first instance. Applications should be submitted online through the link available on Electronic Engineering PhD web page (http://www.surrey.ac.uk/postgraduate/electronic-engineering-phd). During the application process you will be asked to submit relevant documents including a CV, covering letter, transcript of your degree. In the project proposal section of the application please enter the project title given above and identify that you wish to work with Dr Shkunov at Advanced Technology Institute, Electrical and Electronic Engineering.