A funded PhD position is available at the Institute of Technology (IT), Sligo, Ireland to carry out computational Modelling of novel materials for Energy Applications. The position is linked to the Computational Spintronics Group of Prof. Stefano Sanvito, (School of Physics, CRANN and AMBER, Trinity College Dublin) and Dr. Fadwa El-Mellouhi (Qatar Environment & Energy Research Institute, Hamad Bin Khalifa University Qatar). The PhD student will be based in Department of Life Sciences, IT Sligo under the supervision of Dr. Akinlolu Akande and expected to work closely with all the partners.

The project explores hybrid perovskites ideally suited for energy applications by using computational methods in order to provide deeper understanding of their structural, electronic, transport and optical properties. The research will also focus on investigating the role of defects on the performance of these materials and designing new promising materials to advance the state of the art of solar cell applications.

Qualifications

Applicants should have a good (preferably first or at least 2:1) Honours  degree in Chemistry/Physics/Materials or Mathematical Sciences,  a keen interest in computational chemistry/physics theory and applications, high performance computing, an aptitude for computer programming, and excellent communications skills, both written and oral.

First principles quantum mechanical simulations based on Density Functional Theory will be used for this project so experience in these methods will be necessary.

IT Sligo is a dynamic provider of higher education, research, innovation and entrepreneurship in the North West of Ireland.

For further information on projects, terms and conditions, application format, etc., contact John Bartlett, Head of Research at [email protected].

The deadline for all applications is 12 noon on Monday 13th of June 2016

The Institute of Technology, Sligo is an equal opportunities employer.