Robinson Research Institute - PhD Scholarship: Optics-based distributed magnetic field and temperature sensor

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 a new class of magnetochromic composites for fibre-optics based magnetic field and temperature sensors.

The candidate will undertake materials preparation using solid-state chemistry and thin film fabrication as well as assist in the setting up of a magneto-optical test rig on the Quantum Design physical property measurement system (PPMS). The materials will be characterised and studied by x-ray diffraction, SEM, TEM, photoluminescence, magnetometer, and physical property measurement system (PPMS). 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 research programme on ‘Optics-based distributed magnetic field and temperature sensor for enhanced power infrastructure reliability’, which involved researchers from Victoria University of Wellington and University of Boudreaux. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to the fundamental understanding of the intrinsic properties that enable the magneto-piezochromic effect (similar to a magnetoelectric effect) plus investigate ways to optimize the stress-strain transfer between the magnetostrictive and piezochromic phases, and fibre-optics sensor set-up. 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 Prof. Grant Williams ([email protected] ) and Dr. Shen Chong ([email protected] ) with PhD Scholarship in “Optics-based distributed magnetic field and temperature sensor” 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 NZ 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 Prof. Grant Williams ([email protected] ) or Dr. Shen Chong ([email protected] )