The project will be centred on the study of interplay between gold nanoparticles and liquid crystals and involve nanoparticle synthesis as well as material characterisation by advanced microscopy and spectroscopy techniques. Potential applications are promising and range from sensing of drugs and toxins to metamaterials and optical switches.

UCL Department / Division - Chemical Engineering
Duration of Studentship - 3 years
Stipend - £16,000 + UK/EU fees

Duties and responsibilities
The Department of Chemical Engineering at University College London (UCL) is seeking a graduate student to work in the broad area of optically active nanomaterials. The project will be centred on the study of interplay between gold nanoparticles and liquid crystals and involve nanoparticle synthesis as well as material characterisation by advanced microscopy and spectroscopy techniques. Potential applications are promising and range from sensing of drugs and toxins to metamaterials and optical switches.

To submit your application, please click on the "Apply through website" button.

For more information, please visit www.ucl.ac.uk/responsive-nanomaterials.

Key requirements
The candidate will have or be expected to obtain a first degree in physics, chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering or an associated discipline. The ability to work in an interdisciplinary environment that tackles questions across various fields of nanoscience is preconditioned. A comprehensive knowledge in soft matter, nanoparticles, optics and microscopy is desirable, as is previous research experience in related fields. An interest in designing modular experimental set-ups and controlling data acquisition and processing by software such as Matlab and Igor is expected. Furthermore, effective written and verbal communication, good time-management and the ability to work in a team are essential.

Eligibilty
Please note that due to funding restrictions the post is open to UK/EU citizens only. Further details about the studentship are available at the bottom of this page. If you have any queries regarding the vacancy, please contact Dr Stefan Guldin, (s.guldin@ucl.ac.uk).

Further studentship details (including vacancy description and person specification) can be accessed on the Chemical Engineering website.