PhD Research Studentships
Understanding the effect on electric field induced via microwave-synthesised electrocatalysts for energy conversion and storage.
| Supervisor: | Ana JORGE SOBRIDO |
| Apply by: | 31 January 2024 |
| Start in: | September (Semester 1) |
Description
Microwave-assisted synthesis of nanomaterials and in particular, electrocatalysts, is a facile approach for material development with the potential to produce a variety of chemical systems not attainable otherwise. The microwave-irradiation can affect the surface chemistry of electrocatalyst supports, hence influencing the way the electrocatalyst anchors to it, as well as porosity and surface area. This may further impact the stability of the material and degradation mechanisms, including detachment of the electrocatalyst particles. Similarly, microwave-irradiation can impact the structural features of the electrocatalyst, including the presence of vacancies and defects, preferred orientation, and crystallinity. All these features have a massive effect on the electrocatalytic properties of the resulting materials. This PhD project is a joint venture between the School of Engineering and Materials Science (SEMS) and the School of Physical and Chemical Sciences (SPCS) and combines expertise by the PI (SEMS, Prof Sobrido) on electrochemical characterisation and energy storage and conversion systems with the expertise of the co-I on microwave-assisted reactions and CO2 conversion (SPCS, Dr Jie). This project will explore the use of microwaves to understand structure-property relationships to optimise electron transfer and stability of electrocatalysts for relevant reactions, including ORR, OER and CO2 conversion.
Funding
Funded by: China Scholarship CouncilCandidate will need to secure a CSC scholarship.
Under the scheme, Queen Mary will provide scholarships to cover all tuition fees, whilst the CSC will provide living expenses and one return flight ticket to successful applicants.
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 minimum score of 6.0 in each of Writing, Listening, Reading and Speaking).
- Candidates are expected to start in September (Semester 1).
Contact
For informal enquiries about this opportunity, please contact Ana JORGE SOBRIDO.
Apply
Start an application for this studentship and for entry onto the PhD Materials Science full-time programme (Semester 1 / September start):
Please be sure to quote the reference "SEMS-PHD-552" to associate your application with this studentship opportunity.
| Related website: | https://jorgesobrido-group.com/ | |
| SEMS Research Centre: | ||
| Keywords: | Chemistry - Other, Energy Technologies, Materials Science - Other |