*Start date: April-October 2015 *Flexible

Duration: 3 years

The project: 

Thermoelectric (TE) devices convert waste heat flow into useful electrical power. Although bulk thermoelectric materials are traditionally inefficient, large performance improvements have recently been demonstrated in nanostructured thermoelectric materials. The goal of this PhD project is to theoretically investigate TE transport in nanocomposite materials and nanostructures and identify ways to improve their performance. A modeling and simulation approach will be followed, involving electronic and heat transport in these materials. The thesis has the following objectives: i) to illuminate the effects of the nanocomposite geometry on TE transport, ii) to investigate possible ways to relax the averse interdependence between the parameters that limit TE efficiency such that high performance is achieved, and iii) to investigate the possible influence of quantum mechanical effects on electronic transport in nanocomposites and their influence on thermoelectricity.

Please also view: Thermoelectric transport in nanocomposites.pdf

For further information please contact: Dr Neophytou at N.Neophytou<στο>warwick.ac.uk

Eligibility: 

Due to funding restrictions this award is available for well-qualified UK or EU students. Other motivated students are encouraged to apply but will need to secure their own funding. Candidates should hold a 1st or 2.1 degree; the ideal candidate will have a Masters Degree in Engineering, Physics, or the Sciences. The project involves solid state physics, simulator development, computation, and material science. The candidate needs to have basic knowledge of semiconductor device physics, as well as computational modelling skills. Experience in high performance computing techniques will also be beneficial. 

Funding Details:

The Scholarship will pay an annual stipend at the standard rate (currently £13,863) and tuition fees at the Home/EU rate for three years. Overseas students may apply and, if successful would be required to make up the difference in fees between the home and the overseas rates.

How to apply:

To apply for this post you must complete the online application form and quote scholarship referenceNEO.

As soon as you have a University ID number you will be invited to upload your degree certificate, transcripts, CV and a personal statement that explains your specific research interests and why you should be considered for this award.

Application Form Course Details:

Department: School of Engineering

Course Type: Research

Course: Engineering (PhD)

Application form: http://www.go.warwick.ac.uk/pgapply.