PhD studentship in Computational Condensed Matter Physics at Queen's University Belfast (United Kingdom)

Applications are invited for a 3-year PhD studentship to work in the area of Energy Conversion and Advanced Device Platforms Based on Two-Dimensional Materials and Heterostructures.

The PhD studentship is part of the Sustainable Energy Pioneer Research Project (PRP) recently launched by Queen's University Belfast (QUB), which the project is in partnership with the Materials Research Science and Engineering Center (MRSEC) at Columbia University in New York (USA). The partnership involves several experimental groups at MRSEC, which have been working on the forefront of advances and applications of energy materials, oxides and 2D-heterostructures. Several trips and visits to Columbia are planned during the project.

This project includes: i) the design and development of low-dimensional material platforms using controlled search for assembling of atomically thin structures; ii) Explore different types of physics and chemistry driven by quantum coherent electronic states that can be used in optoelectronic devices; iii) Investigation of new phase transition phenomena due to the emergent orders driven by externals parameters (e.g. electric bias, temperature, etc.); and iv) applications based on novel functionalities. Group members will benefit from a vibrant scientific environment at the Atomistic Simulation Center (ASC), and close collaboration with experimental and theoretical groups. The stipend is very competitive and we also offer outstanding computational facilities at QUB, UK National Supercomputing Service (ARCHER), University College London (UCL).

The applicants should have a university degree in physics, chemistry or equivalent (minimum entry 2:1). Experience in coding language (e.g. python) and/or performing electronic structure calculations is an advantage. Imaginative and highly motivated candidates are encouraged to apply. The position is available immediately, and the start date is negotiable.

A fee waiver equivalent to the Home/UK resident rates is fully covered. Overseas students may apply but will need to fund the different between the Home and Overseas fee from another source.

How to apply

Interested applicants should complete an online application form, available from the following website at https://dap.qub.ac.uk/portal/user/u_login.php, providing an up-to-date CV, a letter of motivation, and the names and contact details of at least two academic referees.

Informal enquiries may be directed to Dr. Elton Santos, [email protected]

Closing date: Friday 10^th, February 2017 or till position is filled.