Robinson Research Institute - PhD Scholarship: 3D fluorescent optical memory for long-term data storage

Study Area(s): Science

Scholarship Level: Doctoral

Tenure: Three years

Number offered: One

Value: Stipend of $30,000 per annum plus full fees

A fully funded PhD scholarship is available for research into developing three-dimensional fluorescent optical memory for long-term data storage and preservation.

The candidate will undertake materials preparation using solid-state chemistry, including high-temperature melts and hydrothermal techniques. The materials will be characterised and studied by x-ray diffraction, SEM, TEM, optical absorption, and various luminescence techniques including photoluminescence and stimulated luminescence. The candidate will also assist in the design, construction and implementation of optical experiments involving laser stimulations. Access to additional resources is available through our affiliation with the MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology [1].

This PhD project is part of a newly funded New Zealand MBIE research programme on ‘Three-dimensional fluorescent optical memory for long-term data storage and preservation’, which involves researchers from Victoria University of Wellington. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to fundamental developments in the understanding of luminescence phenomena in highly-insulating materials, the mechanisms via which materials may be optimized via defect- and band-engineering processes, and methods via which super-resolution reading and writing of information is possible. There is also the opportunity for the candidate to work with researchers from other parts of New Zealand, and travel abroad to attend international conferences (subject to COVID-19 travel restrictions )

The successful candidate will join the world leading Robinson Research Institute [2] at Victoria University of Wellington in Lower Hutt, New Zealand.

Robinson Research Institute is internationally recognised for the impact of our applied research into superconductivity and electromagnetic technologies. Our world-leading programmes in materials and engineering deliver globally sought-after graduates and transform tomorrow’s industries.

Applicants should have a degree equivalent to the 4-year Physics (1st Class Honours) degree in New Zealand or an MSc or postgraduate Diploma with high grades. We are seeking a highly motivated person with an excellent academic record, a good understanding of materials science/physics, and able to work well in a team.

Applicants should satisfy the requirements for admission as a PhD candidate at Victoria University of Wellington and ensure that they can satisfy the English language requirements [3].

Please send an email to Dr Joe Schuyt ([email protected] ) and Dr Shen Chong ([email protected] ) with PhD Scholarship in “Three-dimensional fluorescent optical memory for long-term data storage and preservation” in the subject line. Please include the following information:

• A full curriculum vitae, including your university transcripts
• A statement detailing why you are interested in this project
• The names of at least two people who are prepared to act as referees
• Evidence of your English language ability
• Your expected starting date

For applicants who are not New Zealand citizens or permanent residents, we recommend you check the NZ Immigration website for updates related to Covid19 restrictions on entry to New Zealand: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/about-us/covid-19

References

[1] https://www.macdiarmid.ac.nz/

[2] https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/robinson

[3] https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/fgr/apply/how/entry-requirements

For more information please contact Dr Joe Schuyt ([email protected] ) or Dr Shen Chong ([email protected] ).