PhD Research Studentships
Understanding light-induced switching of ferroelectrics towards optically controlled neuromorphic computing
| Supervisor: | Joe BRISCOE |
| Apply by: | 28 January 2026 |
| Start in: | September (Semester 1) |
Description
A PhD position is available in the group of Prof Joe Briscoe. Prof Briscoe’s research is focused on developing thin films and nanostructured materials for renewable energy applications, including photovoltaics (PVs), photoelectrocatalysis (PEC) for ‘solar fuels’ and piezoelectric energy harvesting. His research also covers advanced applications of ferroelectric materials, such as solar energy conversion, and neuromorphic and optically-controlled computing [1].
As we approach the fundamental limits of current computing technologies based on silicon CMOS circuits, it is imperative to develop novel approaches to computational problems that are optimised for specific applications, rather than generic, multi-purpose platforms. Neuromorphic computing, which mimics the activity of the human brain, is a promising new approach that has the potential to hugely accelerate the processing power of computational systems. Memristors, which combine memory and computation in a single system are ideal units for neuromorphic computing, enabling us to overcome the von Neumann bottleneck. In addition, controlling such elements with light has many advantages, including integrating sensing directly with memory and computing, and reducing the energy demand by enabling read/write operations with light, rather than electrical signals. Ferroelectrics have many idea properties for these applications. They can store multiple electrical states through their polarisation, polarisation can be controlled at the nanoscale, and as have recently demonstrated in Prof Briscoe’s group [1], they can be switching rapidly using optical signals.
This project will explore the fundamental interactions between light and ferroelectric polarisation, building on prior pioneering work in Prof Briscoe’s group. A wide range of ferroelectric systems will be explored in order to gain further understanding on the mechanisms underlying ferroelectric switching using light. The ultimate aim will be to further accelerate the switching speed of ferroelectric polarisation using light in order to enable applications in optically controlled neuromorphic computing.
This project will be facilitated by access to advanced lab facilities including material synthesis and device fabrication and testing, a wide range of characterisation facilities (SEM, TEM, XRD, XPS, lab GIWAXS, tr-PL) and in particular a state-of-the-art atomic force microscopy (AFM) setup, including piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM) coupled to a range of light-sources to investigate optically-induced effects in ferroelectric materials.
Applications are invited from outstanding candidates with or expecting to receive a first or upper-second class honours bachelor’s degree in Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, or related subjects. Candidates with experience or knowledge of ferroelectric materials and/or scanning probe / atomic force microscopy would be ideally suited for the position. A master’s degree in a relevant subject is also desirable.
Our PhD students become part of Queen Mary’s Doctoral College, which provides training and development opportunities, advice on funding, and financial research support. Our students also have access to a Researcher Development Programme designed to help recognise and develop the skills and attributes needed to manage research and to prepare and plan for the next stages of their career.
Requirements:
- This studentship is only for CSC PhD applicants.
- The minimum requirement is a good Honours degree (minimum 2(i) honours or equivalent) and MSc/MRes in a relevant discipline.
Relevant publication
[1] Subhajit Pal, L-T Hsu, H Sun, S-H Teng, V Dwij, E Palladino, Y Nie, S John, SS Prabhu, A Grünebohm, and J Briscoe. Subsecond optically controlled domain switching in freestanding ferroelectric BaTiO3 membrane. Nature Communications. 6: 7940 (2025).
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.
Deadline is 4pm GMT
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 Joe BRISCOE.
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-685" to associate your application with this studentship opportunity.
| Keywords: | Biotechnology, Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science - Other, Chemical Engineering, Energy Technologies, Materials Science - Other, Chemical Physics |