Ireland: PhD: Semiconductor Nanowires

(Ref. No. DI – 01) PhD: Semiconductor Nanowires for Sensing and Energy Harvesting Applications

A funded Marie Curie Initial Training Networks (ITN) PhD position is currently available on the development of chemical functionalisation and characterisation of nanowires for sensing and energy harvesting applications, within the Nanotechnology group starting from January 2011.

Semiconductor nanowires have already been proposed for sensing applications but better control of their morphology (surface defects, surface termination, shape and length) is required for the development of high selectivity, high sensitivity and high stability chemical and biochemical sensor devices. In this project ZnO Nanowires with controlled stochiometry will be used towards the development of optical sensing of ethanol uptake in car drivers and novel protocols will be developed towards the chemical functionalisation of SiC nanowires in order to increase their already proven biocompatibility at blood level. Moreover, chemical composition of core shell nanowires will be investigated for energy harvesting applications in order to increase the efficiency of photovoltaic cells. Work will target effective doping of Si nanowires and production and characterisation of core shell nanowires on transparent conductive substrates.

This project will focus on:
1.    Photophysical characterisation of ZnO nanowires and demonstration of ethanol optical sensing.
2.    Chemical surface modification of SiC nanowires and demonstration of biological recognition and sensing.
3.    Morphological and photophysical characterisation of core shell nanowires and demonstration of increased efficiency in photovoltaic cells.

Applications are invited from scientists who hold (or expect to obtain before January 2011) a first or second class honours undergraduate degree in chemistry, physics, materials science, biochemistry, electronic/electrical engineering or a closely related discipline.

The successful student will receive training in all research methods required, and will work alongside experienced professional researchers within the nanotechnology group, attend conferences and publish in high impact journals. The research is supported by a suite of equipment and laboratory facilities within the group that are amongst the best in Europe. The research is conducted in close collaboration with industrial and academic partners, therefore the successful candidate will avail of additional training in partner institutions.

For further information on this position, please contact Dr. Daniela Iacopino, Nanotechnology Group, Tyndall National Institute (Email:  Daniela.iacopino@tyndall.ie group webpage: www.tyndall.ie/nanotech).

To apply for this position, please send your current curriculum vitae, listing academic results to date and details of any previous laboratory experience, together with a cover letter containing the names of two referees, to careers@tyndall.ie quoting reference number DI – 01.

At this time, Tyndall National Institute does not require the assistance of recruitment agencies.

Tyndall National Institute is an Equal Opportunities Employer.