PhD Research Studentships

Nanostructured Semiconductor Interfaces for the Next-Generation of Sustainable Photon Conversion Technologies

Supervisor: Flurin EISNER
Apply by:28 January 2026
Start in:September (Semester 1)

Description

PhD Opportunity: Nanostructured Semiconductor Interfaces for the Next-Generation of Sustainable Photon Conversion Technologies

The global shift toward sustainable energy demands innovative materials and device architectures capable of efficiently converting photons into usable energy, or vice-versa. This PhD project explores combining next-generation solution-processed semiconductors—such as between organics and metal halide perovskites—as promising alternatives to traditional silicon technologies, offering lower environmental impact and greater processing versatility.

Central to this research is the design and control of nanostructured hybrid interfaces between these semiconductors. These interfaces enable precise manipulation of photo-generated charges—tuning their energies1, lifetimes2, and even spin states—to unlock new functionalities in both energy conversion and optoelectronic applications. This includes:

  • High-efficiency semi-transparent solar cells 
  • Photodetectors and spin-based up-conversion devices for advanced sensing and communication

You will employ a combination of experimental and theoretical techniques, with a strong emphasis on spectroscopic characterisation, to probe and optimise charge dynamics at interfaces. The project offers hands-on experience in thin-film fabrication, device engineering, and advanced optical/electronic measurements.

This interdisciplinary research is embedded in a collaborative environment, with opportunities for cross-departmental and industrial partnerships aimed at translating lab-scale innovations into real-world clean-tech solutions. You will be part of a growing team supported by a recent UKRI New Investigator Award and will have access to state-of-the-art fabrication and characterisation facilities through the School’s Green Energy Hub.

This interdisciplinary research is embedded in a collaborative environment, with opportunities for cross-departmental and industrial partnerships aimed at translating lab-scale innovations into real-world clean-tech solutions.

We welcome applicants from physics, materials science, chemistry, or engineering who are passionate about using cutting-edge science to address global sustainability challenges.

Please feel free to contact me informally to discuss the project and your application (see contact details below).

Please note that we encourage early applications and that we will interview suitable candidates on a rolling basis;

(1) Royakkers, Eisner, F.; et al. Synthesis of model heterojunction interfaces reveals molecular-configuration-dependent photoinduced charge transfer. Nature Chemistry 2024, 16 (9), 1453-1461. DOI: 10.1038/s41557-024-01578-x.

(2) Sit, W. Y.; Eisner, F. ; et al. High‐Efficiency Fullerene Solar Cells Enabled by a Spontaneously Formed Mesostructured CuSCN‐Nanowire Heterointerface. Advanced Science 2018, 5 (4), 1700980. DOI: doi:10.1002/advs.201700980.

Funding

Funded by: China Scholarship Council
Candidate 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 Flurin EISNER.

Apply

Start an application for this studentship and for entry onto the PhD FT Materials Science full-time programme (Semester 1 / September start):

Apply Now »

Please be sure to quote the reference "SEMS-PHD-681" to associate your application with this studentship opportunity.

Related website:https://www.sems.qmul.ac.uk/staff/f.eisner/
SEMS Research Centre:
Sustainable Engineering
Keywords:Applied Chemistry, Physical Chemistry, Electronic Engineering, Energy Technologies, Chemical Physics, Semiconductors, Solid State Physics