PhD Supervisor: Silvia Motti
Supervisory Team: Dr Silvia Motti
Project description:
The University of Southampton is expanding its PhD research in the area of Quantum Technology Engineering. In addition to the research project outlined below you will receive substantial training in scientific, technical, and commercial skills.
Perovskite semiconductors are an emerging class of materials that promise to revolutionize the solar cell market. Their low-dimensional architectures also offer promising potential for classical and quantum light emitters. The main challenge for their application is long-term stability. Perovskite semiconductors are characterised by soft ionic lattices and large phonon anharmonicity that underpins many of their optoelectronic properties, from charge regulating charge transport to promoting ionic migration. Understanding and managing lattice dynamics is critical for mitigating instabilities and preventing degradation. The vibrational properties of these semiconductors and the impact of chemical composition, morphology, and dimensionality still need to be understood.
This project aims to understand phonon anharmonicity and polaronic effects in perovskite semiconductors and to identify, develop, and implement vibrational engineering strategies to improve charge transport and material stability.
In this project you will take part in this exciting and dynamic field of emerging semiconductors. You will develop expertise in laser spectroscopy, including photoluminescence, transient absorption, and Raman scattering. You will also gain skills in material fabrication and characterisation, and numerical modelling and data analysis. This will open numerous opportunities for a future career in cutting-edge academic research and in the growing industry in semiconductors and quantum technologies.
This project will be supervised by Dr Silvia Motti and will integrate the Semiconductor Photophysics group and the wider Quantum, Light, and Matter group of the School of Physics and Astronomy. The group offers a welcoming and inclusive environment, a friendly and supportive local community, and flexible arrangements. We strongly encourage applications from candidates from underrepresented backgrounds.
If you are interested, please contact the supervisor for more information: Silvia Motti [email protected]
Entry Requirements
A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).
Closing date : 31 August 2024.
Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.
Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships. For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of Southampton Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.
How To Apply
Apply online: Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk) . Select programme type (Research), Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD iMR”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor.
Applications should include:
- Research Proposal
- Curriculum Vitae
- Two reference letters
- Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date
For further information please contact: [email protected]
The University of Southampton is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking to study part time. The University of Southampton takes personal circumstances into account, has onsite childcare facilities, is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.