PhD Research Studentships

Development of Novel Structured Advanced Functional Silicone Composites

Supervisors: Julien GAUTROT and
Apply by:31 July 2017

Description

A studentship in the design of novel smart advanced materials is available in the groups of Dr J. Gautrot and E. Bilotti. The research will focus on the development of novel chemistry for advanced materials with tailored properties and their characterisation for applications as adaptable adhesives. This studentship is in collaboration with and funded by FormFormForm Ltd.

Silicone-based elastomeric materials and composites are found in very wide range of products and applications, from high performance heat resistant polymer materials and sealants to biomaterials for implants and tissue engineering. Their low cost, ease of processing and excellent mechanical properties, thermal stability and bio-inertness have contributed to make this class of materials particularly important for Industry. However, their use in a wider range of applications and compatibility with novel and fast evolving processing technologies requires the design of novel chemistry and properties (responsive conductivity, barrier properties, controlled adhesion).

This project will develop novel silicone based composites with controlled microstructure, in particular allowing the improvement of mechanical properties, controlled conductivity, barrier properties and adhesion. The successful candidate will develop skills in materials chemistry and associated structural characterisation (NMR, FTIR, Mass Spec) as well as mechanical, electrical and structural characterisation of composites (indentation, rheology, tensile testing and industrial processing/manufacturing, conductivity assays, Electron Microscopy). This project will be integrated with other projects in our group focusing on the development of novel smart materials and biomaterials (http://biointerfaces.qmul.ac.uk/). This project will be in close collaboration with FormFormForm Ltd and will involve work with the team behind the invention and design of Sugru (https://sugru.com/).

Our research group has a strong track-record in the field of materials science: their design and synthesis, but also application as smart materials and biomaterials (see Biomaterials 2010, 2012, Nature Materials 2012, Nature Cell Biology 2010 and Integrative Biology 2013, Nano Letters 2014). The successful candidate will join our multidisciplinary team and build a strong expertise in the fields of materials chemistry, structural, physical and mechanical characterisation, microfabrication and processing. Applicants must have (or be about to obtain) a good Honours degree (minimum 2(i) honours or equivalent) in Materials Sciences or Chemistry.

This position is opened to UK and EU citizens.

Supervisor: Dr Julien Gautrot (j.gautrot@qmul.ac.uk) for further information.

QMUL Research Studentship Details

  • Available to Home/EU Applicants only. (See: http://www.welfare.qmul.ac.uk/money/feestatus/ for details) 
  • Full Time programme only
  • Applicant required to start by Sept/Oct 2017.
  • The studentship arrangement will cover tuition fees and provide an annual stipend for up to three years (Currently set as £16,296 in 2016/17).
  • The minimum requirement for this studentship opportunity is a good Honours degree (minimum 2(i) honours or equivalent) in Chemistry or Materials Science.
  • If English is not your first language then you will require a valid English certificate equivalent to IELTS 6.5+ overall with a minimum score of 6 in Writing 5.5 in all sections (Reading, Listening & Speaking).

Application Method:

To apply for this studentship and for entry on to the Medical Engineering programme (Full Time, Semester 1 start) please follow the apply online link at: http://www.qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/subjects/engineering/index.html

Further Guidance available via: http://www.qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/applyresearchdegrees/index.html

Please be sure to include a reference to ‘2017 SEMS FFF JG’ to associate your application with this studentship opportunity.

Deadline for application: 31st July 2017

Eligibility

  • The minimum requirement for this studentship opportunity is a good honours degree (minimum 2(i) honours or equivalent) or MSc/MRes in a relevant discipline.
  • If English is not your first language, you will require a valid English certificate equivalent to IELTS 6.5+ overall with a minimum score of 6.0 in Writing and 5.5 in all sections (Reading, Listening, Speaking).
  • Candidates are expected to start in (Semester ).
  • SEMS and Principal-funded studentships: this studentship arrangement covers home tuition fees and provides an annual stipend for up to three years (currently set at the 2023/24 stipend rate of £20,622 pa)
  • Note that Queen Mary Research Studentships cover home-rated tuition fees only (See: www.welfare.qmul.ac.uk/money/feestatus/ for details)
  • Overseas applicants would be required to meet the difference between home and international tuition fees

Contact

For informal enquiries about this opportunity, please contact Julien GAUTROT or .