School of Engineering, University of Warwick

Supervisor: Dr Hatef Sadeghi
Start date: 30 September 2019 or 6 January 2020
Duration: 3 years

The project: PhD studentship in the Theory of Nanoscale Electronics

The PhD project aims towards a fundamental and theoretical understanding of quantum transport through nanoscale molecular junctions, self-assembled monolayers, graphene nanoribbons and van der Waals heterostructures. The work will be based on first-principles density-functional theory and non-equilibrium Green’s function transport calculations on high-performance computing facilities. The ultimate goal of the research is to utilize quantum phenomena such as quantum interference to engineer the properties of advanced materials for various applications such as thermoelectric energy recovery and cooling, molecular electronic building blocks, sensors, molecular spintronics and optoelectronic devices. For more information on our research activities see www.nanolab.uk.

Eligibility:
Due to funding restrictions, this scholarship is eligible for UK or EU candidates only.

Candidates must have a master's level degree in electronic engineering or physics (applied physics, engineering physics, materials science, chemical physics) or equivalent with sound knowledge and interest in nanoelectronics and condensed matter physics and a strong interest in computational materials modelling and quantum transport. Experience in electronic structure calculations and/or atomistic simulations are desirable.

The scientific results are expected to be presented at national and international meetings and published in peer-reviewed journals. The applicant must have excellent oral and written communication skills in English and be able to interact effectively with experimental collaborators.

Funding:
The scholarship will pay an annual stipend at the standard rate (currently £15,009, this will increase each year in line with Research Council rates) and covers 100% tuition fees at the UK/EU rate for 3 years.

How to apply:

To apply, please provide a single PDF document including a cover letter, full curriculum vitae, a list of all publications, an English test certificate and contact information for two references by email to Dr. H. Sadeghi with ‘PhD Application (HS2)’ in the subject line.

If you are successful at the interview you will be required to submit a formal application for study and fulfil the entry requirements set by the University of Warwick. As soon as you have a University ID number you will be invited to upload your degree certificate, transcripts, and a personal statement that explains your specific research interests and why you should be considered for this award. To make a formal application you must complete the online application form and quote scholarship HS2. Details of how to make a formal application can be found here www.warwick.ac.uk/pgrengineering.