PhD Studentship: Excitonic 2D Materials for Enhanced Light Emission

Applications are invited for a PhD position in 2D materials, nanophotonics and spectroscopy. This experimental project employs novel two-dimensional materials for electron-phonon coupling at the nanoscale towards enhanced light-matter coupling [1-5].

Applicants should have completed (or closer to completion) their undergraduate degree in Physics, Material Science, Chemistry or related Physical Science disciplines (preferably with first-class honours or equivalent). Strong analytical and experimental skills are desirable. The project's specifics will be determined in collaboration with the successful candidate, tailoring the research to their interests.

The project will be conducted within the research group led by Dr. Rohit Chikkaraddy (www.birmingham.ac.uk/staff/profiles/physics/chikkaraddy-rohit.aspx ), based at the Metamaterials and Nanophotonics Research Centre (www.birmingham.ac.uk/research/activity/physics/quantum/metamaterials/index.aspx ) in the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Birmingham, UK.

The work will comprise the exfoliation of 2D materials, integration with plasmonic and nanophotonic systems and their ultrafast spectroscopy. The thesis is strongly multidisciplinary, and applications are welcome from candidates with backgrounds in materials, chemistry, and/or physics. This research is conducted in collaboration with international partners, and the candidate's focus can be adjusted according to their interests and preferences. You will join a vibrant, international laboratory environment and receive support in developing your personal vision and an autonomous scientific profile, as well as possible industrial links and scientific collaborations.

The University is actively committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applicants from all sections of society. In line with the Department’s Athena SWAN programme, we particularly encourage female candidates to apply.

For information on available funding, application guidance, or any other informal inquiries, please contact Dr. Rohit Chikkaraddy at [email protected] .

To apply, please use this link (sits.bham.ac.uk/lpages/EPS005.htm ) and clearly specify the project's title, the name of the supervisor (Dr. Rohit Chikkaraddy), and the Metamaterials and Nanophotonics Research Centre. The application deadline is January 18, 2024.
Funding, awarded on a competitive basis, is available to UK/EU nationals, covering tuition fees and living stipend for 3.5 years. Non-EU candidates with the appropriate qualifications will be considered for competitive scholarships/funding.

References:

1. R. Chikkaraddy, et al. "Single-molecule mid-infrared spectroscopy and detection through vibrationally assisted luminescence", Nature Photonics 17, 865–871 (2023).
2. R. Chikkaraddy, et al. "Mid-infrared-perturbed molecular vibrational signatures in plasmonic nanocavities". Light: Science & Applications, 11, 19 (2022).
3. A. Xomalis, X. Zheng, R. Chikkaraddy, et al. "Detecting mid-infrared light by molecular frequency upconversion in dual-wavelength nanoantennas". Science, 374, 1268 (2021).
4. M. Kleemann, R. Chikkaraddy, et al. “Strong-coupling of WSe2 in ultra-compact plasmonic nanocavities at room temperature”. Nature Communications, 8, 1296 (2017).
5. R. Chikkaraddy, et al. "Single-molecule strong coupling at room temperature in plasmonic nanocavities", Nature, 535, 127 (2016).