Study the Transient Dynamics of Advanced Photonics Materials

Summary

Advanced materials such as perovskites, graphene and other two-dimensional (2D) materials are essential for next-generation technologies, including high-efficiency solar cells, sensors, semiconductors, quantum technologies and energy-harvesting devices. Understanding how these materials respond to light and electrical fields at the nanoscale is important for improving their performance and reliability.

This PhD project will investigate the transient dynamics of advanced photonic and electronic materials using advanced nanoscale characterisation and microscopy techniques. The research will explore how the electrical, electrochemical and physical properties of materials change over very short timescales when exposed to external stimuli such as light and electric fields.

The project will use a range of Scanning Probe Microscopy (SPM) techniques, including Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy (KPFM), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), and related electrical and mechanical microscopy methods, to study nanoscale material behaviour with high spatial and temporal resolution.

The PhD candidate will work at the intersection of nanotechnology, photonics, advanced materials, microscopy and renewable energy. The project will provide training in advanced experimental techniques, nanoscale measurements, data analysis and scientific programming.

The research will provide new insights into important processes such as charge transport, charge-carrier recombination and photovoltage generation in emerging materials, including perovskite solar cells, graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides.

The outcomes could contribute to improved understanding of materials used in next-generation solar cells, photonic devices, semiconductors and other emerging technologies, while supporting the transition towards more efficient and sustainable energy technologies.

This project offers an exciting opportunity for a motivated PhD researcher to gain expertise in advanced microscopy and nanoscale materials characterisation while working on important challenges in photonics, energy and advanced materials.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement demonstrating interest in the subject area
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• Applicants should hold, or expect to hold a First Class Honours Degree in a relevant subject area
• International applicants should hold, or expect to hold a relevant Masters Degree at a level equivalent to a distinction at Ulster
• Experience or knowledge of research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Track record of peer reviewed publications

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)
• Vice Chancellor's Research Scholarship (VCRS)

PhD scholarships are available for this project to all applicants worldwide, regardless of residency or domicile, and will cover:

• Tuition fees.
• A maintenance allowance of approximately £22,000 (exact rate is to be confirmed) per annum for three years, subject to satisfactory academic performance.
• A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of approximately £900 per annum.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year, or part-time equivalent, funded from any source, including self-financing students, are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Students in full-time employment are not eligible for an award.

Part-time PhD scholarships may be available at a 0.5 pro rata rate of the full-time scholarship, which would require a six-year registration period.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.

The University will award a successful candidate one of the following scholarships for the project, depending on the funding available at the time an admissions offer is made:

1. Department for the Economy (DfE) PhD Scholarships
2. Vice Chancellor’s Research Scholarships (VCRS)

Please note that the Terms and Conditions for scholarships are subject to change for 2027/28.