PhD Study : Understanding and optimisation of nanomaterial properties for efficient solar thermal energy conversion

Summary

Solar thermal energy conversion is becoming of paramount interest in research as it has the potential to provide sustainable solutions for decarbonised heat supply. Successful development of solar thermal energy converters depends on the energy conversion efficiency of the devices/systems. Nanomaterials have the potential to impact and push forward this area of research due to their exceptional properties which include increased surface area, quantum confinement, tuneable properties, modified interface, high reactivity and low-cost synthesis. Understanding the factors and maximising the energy conversion efficiency is becoming a point of interest for achieving a sustainable and viable solution.

This project focuses on the design and development of nanomaterials and/or hybrid nanomaterial systems for achieving a broad range of solar absorption and efficient photo thermal conversion in solar thermal converters. The nanomaterial properties will be optimised in terms of size, shape, surface functionalities and defect densities to tune optical, electrical and thermal properties. A focus of the work will be in understanding and modifying the transport properties (charge carrier and heat) of nanomaterials for efficient energy conversion and optimised device performance. The research will seek to replace the existing low efficiency surface absorber with a high efficiency nanomaterial based solar absorber. The project will be delivered in several stages and some activities will run in parallel. The optimisation of synthesis parameters will be performed to achieve tuneable optical, electrical and thermal properties of nanomaterials for photo thermal applications. Effort will be directed at understanding the fundamental science and mechanism of photo thermal energy conversion factors in nanomaterials and hybrid nanomaterial systems.

The outcome of the project will manifest in a detailed understanding of parameters crucial for enhancing energy conversion efficiency in nanomaterial-based photo thermal energy applications. This will also provide critical know how on nanomaterial-based device fabrication processes suitable for solar thermal applications. It is expected that high impact factor journal and conference papers will be produced by the project.

The applicant should have interest in nanomaterials and solar energy research. This project will be well suited to candidates with a background in materials science, physics, chemistry, chemical engineering or a related discipline.

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

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 £19,000 (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