UK: PhD Studentship in Nano-materials / Micro-Devices, Cranfield University

PhD Studentship in Nano-materials / Micro-Devices, Cranfield University, UK

Academic Supervisors: Dr Qi Zhang and Dr Paul Kirby
Duration: Three years
Award type: PhD

Supported by EPSRC through the FP7 European project a studentship of up to GBP 12,000 p.a. for 3 years plus fees* is available.

Cranfield University currently has a vacancy for a highly motivated graduate to undertake an exciting research project in the area of nano materials. This research forms part of a large European project, titled Rolled Multi Material layered (Multilayer) 3D Shaping Technology. (FP7). This project aims to identify and develop mass production techniques that will enable efficient microsystem device production.

The functionality of nano-materials in non-silicon, multi-material and micro devices offers huge potential for commercialisation in new emerging markets in the near future. For this to occur however, mass-production techniques of these devices need to be developed. The aim of this research project is to use existing novel tape-casting and advanced printing techniques to mass produce microsystem devices.

This project involves investigation of wet-chemical and supercritical drying methods for the fabrication of nano ceramic powders. It also requires investigation of an ultrasonic vibration system for dispersion of nanoparticles in liquid media, in high volume concentrations, required for tape forming sol-gel technology to formulate printing inks.

The project will be intellectually challenging and interdisciplinary in nature. It will involve considerable hands-on experimental work and European travel will be required, with the possibility of exchange visits to other laboratories for periods during the course of the PhD.

The successful candidate will work with Cranfield University Microsystems and Nanotechnology Centre, which undertakes leading research spanning from the development of new functional materials through to prototyping of micro electromechanical system (MEMS) devices. The Centres work is truly multidisciplinary and encompasses such diverse fields as microengineering, nanotechnology, biology, materials science, physics and chemistry. You will have access to ’state-of-the-art’ hardware and software, and be part of a growing team that seeks to address industrial problems while maintaining a strong ’science and technology’ base.

Closing date: 1st April 2009

Entry requirements
Applicants should have a first or second class UK honours degree, or equivalent in a relevant discipline such as materials science, chemistry, or physics

Funding
*Supported by an EPSRC bursary, this studentship will cover the tuition fees at the UK/EU rate only and provide a bursary of up to GBP 12,000 p.a. for three years dependent upon qualifications and experience. To be eligible for funding applicants must demonstrate a relevant connection with the UK, usually through being ordinarily resident for a period of 3 years immediately prior to the date of application for the award. However, nationals of other member states of the European Union are eligible for fees-only awards if they are resident in their own country in the same way that other candidates are required to be resident in the UK. Eligibility details are available at: www.epsrc.ac.uk/PostgraduateTraining/StudentEligibility.htm

How to apply
Please complete the application form at:
www.cranfield.ac.uk/prospectus/app/pgappform.pdf

Alternatively, for more information and an application form please contact:

School of Applied Sciences
T: 44 (0)1234 754086
E: appliedsciences[ at ]cranfield.ac.uk
W: www.cranfield.ac.uk/sas/studentships?id=jobs19

Keywords: Nano-materials, micro-devices, novel taping techniques, mass production, materials science