PhD Study : Novel metal-organic frameworks and their functional derivatives for affordable clean energy generation

Summary

Metal−organic frameworks (MOFs) are a class of porous materials. The highly tuneable structure of MOFs facilitates the construction of functional derivatives with unique and desired properties suitable for applications in diverse areas e.g., energy, sensing, biomedical, catalysis. The understanding of self-assembly and transformation mechanisms requires further investigation. This project aims to provide a fundamental understanding of the transformation mechanism of MOFs (primarily Cu, Fe, and Zn-based MOFs) to various functional derivatives with a view of achieving optimized properties for hydrogen fuel generation. This will be achieved through controlled synthesis, detailed characterization and electrocatalytic testing of novel MOF derivatives. Plasma and chemical processing will be explored for the synthesis and functionalization of these MOF derivatives. The transformation mechanism will be explored using in-situ advanced atomic force microscopy, These studies will shed new insight into the rational design of electrode materials for sustainable hydrogen production.

We have already established a novel platform for developing MOFs based electrodes for various applications like supercapacitor, battery and fuel cells. This project, if successful, will have major impact by offering an efficient bi-functional electrode to replace conventional expensive metal electrodes of limited availability and may initiate industrial collaboration. Results from this project have potential to open a new research area in the School of Engineering that of metalorganic frameworks and promote interdisciplinary collaboration between different clusters of the school

This proposal aligns well with Ulster University’s new corporate and research strategy ‘People, Place and Partnership’ and seeks to unlock our collective potential to deliver “Sustainable Futures for All” and SDG7 Clean and Affordable Energy. This PhD scholarship will offer the students exciting prospects to learn and develop new fundamental knowledge and help transform fundamental science into applied technologies that will have an important impact on society. The student will have the opportunity to explore materials research that are green and sustainable and gain expertise in high-resolution materials characterization using Atomic Force Microscopy, X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, and Transmission Electron Microscopy. Options to include various simulation tools are also available.

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.

• Sound understanding of subject area as evidenced by a comprehensive research proposal

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.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Masters at 65%
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Publications - peer-reviewed

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

The University offers the following levels of support:

Vice Chancellors Research Studentship (VCRS)

The following scholarship options are available to applicants worldwide:

• Full Award: (full-time tuition fees + £19,000 (tbc))
• Part Award: (full-time tuition fees + £9,500)
• Fees Only Award: (full-time tuition fees)

These scholarships will cover full-time PhD tuition fees for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance) and will provide a £900 per annum research training support grant (RTSG) to help support the PhD researcher.

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) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Please note: you will automatically be entered into the competition for the Full Award, unless you state otherwise in your application.

Department for the Economy (DFE)

The scholarship will cover tuition fees at the Home rate and a maintenance allowance of £19,237 (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).

This scholarship also comes with £900 per annum for three years as a research training support grant (RTSG) allocation to help support the PhD researcher.

• Candidates with pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, who also satisfy a three year residency requirement in the UK prior to the start of the course for which a Studentship is held MAY receive a Studentship covering fees and maintenance.
• Republic of Ireland (ROI) nationals who satisfy three years’ residency in the UK prior to the start of the course MAY receive a Studentship covering fees and maintenance (ROI nationals don’t need to have pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme to qualify).
• Other non-ROI EU applicants are ‘International’ are not eligible for this source of funding.
• 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) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies. Further information on cost of living