University of Sussex 2022 PhD Studentship in Physics (UK)

A fully funded Phd studentship in the Department of Physics & Astronomy, University of Sussex

Ceramic materials within X-ray scanners can lose mechanical integrity due to deleterious charging. Imparting an electrical dissipative coating to the ceramic or creating a ceramic composite containing conductive particles may offer a cost-effective solution. It is well known that when conducting particles are distributed in an insulating matrix, there is a statistical threshold at which current can flow through the composite when the filler particles are macroscopically inter-connected. In collaboration with Advanced Material Development, the Sussex Team have previously produced conducting graphene materials from graphene oxide by thermal reduction within a polymer matrix. GO thermal reduction is highly exothermic and can result in spontaneous ignition, while thermal runaway gives estimated adiabatic local temperatures well above 1200°C – comparable to decomposition enthalpies of explosives such as nitrocellulose and TNT. As such, it should be possible to both sinter and impart conductivity in one step during the preparation of ceramic paste materials. The project will develop both coatings and composites with adjustable electrical and thermal conductivities. Structure property relationships will be analysed using a range of techniques including photoelectron spectroscopy, mechanical spectroscopy and electron microscopy. The materials robustness to Xray exposure will be tested as a function nanoparticle inclusion. Finally, prototype structures will be fabricated and tested.

• Table of Content
• About University of Sussex
• PhD Studentship in Physics
• Aim and Benefits of PhD Studentship in Physics
• Requirements for PhD Studentship in Physics Qualification
• Application Deadline
• How to Apply

About University of Sussex

The University of Sussex is a leading research-intensive university near Brighton. We have both an international and local outlook, with staff and students from more than 100 countries and frequent engagement in community activities and services.

PhD Studentship in Physics

Aim and Benefits of PhD Studentship in Physics

• Fully-paid tuition fees for three and a half years
• A tax-free bursary for living costs for three and a half years. From October 2021/22 this is expected to be £15560 per year
• Additional funding towards research consumables and training costs

Requirements for PhD Studentship in Physics Qualification

Applicants must hold, or expect to hold, at least a UK upper second class degree (or non-UK equivalent qualification) in Physics, or a closely-related area, or else a lower second class degree followed by a relevant Master's degree.

Only UK Higher Education “Home Fee” status applicants and EU residents satisfying the three-year residency requirement are eligible. The funding is for three and a half  years and covers tax-free stipend at UKRI rates, UK fees and some research and travel costs.

Application Deadline

How to Apply

Apply through the University of Sussex on-line system. 

https://www.sussex.ac.uk/study/phd/apply/log-into-account

Select the PhD in Physics, with an entry date of September 2021.

In the Finance & Fees section, state that you wish to be considered for studentship reference SEPnet/MP/2021

We advise early application as the position will be filled as soon as a suitable applicant can be found.

Due to the high volume of applications received, you may only hear from us if your application is successful.

For more details, visit University of Sussex website.