Topological Insulator Nanoparticles

About the Project
Important – application steps and information

Due to Covid19 travel restrictions, we are currently only accepting applicants who are NZ Citizens or Permanent Residents.

Please 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 or https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/covid-19

History and purpose

A fully funded PhD scholarship in Chemistry is available for research into synthesizing and understanding topological insulator nanoparticles. The successful candidate will join the School of Chemical and Physical Sciences [1] and Robinson Research Institute [2] at Victoria University of Wellington (VUW), New Zealand.

The successful candidate will research and make topological insulator nanoparticles (e.g. Bi2Te3, Bi2Se3) with a range of sizes and dopants. Very little is known about these nanomaterials and there is an excellent opportunity to make major breakthroughs in this area. The materials will be characterised and studied by x-ray diffraction, SEM, TEM, optical, magnetotransport, Hall, thermopower, thermal conductivity, and magnetic measurements. Samples will be sent to our colleagues at Leipzig University for NMR measurements. Access to additional resources is available through our affiliation with the MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology [3]. 

This PhD project is part of a newly funded MacDiarmid Institute research programme on ‘Future Computing – Towards Low Energy Tech’, which involves researchers from Victoria University of Wellington and Leipzig University (Germany).  The successful candidate will have the opportunity to contribute to the fundamental understanding of the bulk and surface structures governing the topological insulating properties and band-structure of these nanoparticles. There is also the opportunity for the candidate to travel abroad to attend international conferences (when overseas travel restrictions are lifted) and work with researchers from other parts of New Zealand.

Eligibility

Applicants should have a degree equivalent to the 4-year Chemistry (Honours) degree in New Zealand, with 1st class Honours, or an MSc or postgraduate Diploma with very high grades. We are seeking a highly motivated person with an excellent academic record, and able to work well in a team. Candidates should satisfy the requirements for admission as a PhD candidate at Victoria University and applicants should ensure that they can satisfy the English language requirements [4].

Total value and tenure

The successful PhD applicant will receive a stipend of $30,000 per annum for 3 years, as well as payment of all university tuition fees, student levies and insurance for overseas student.

How to apply

Please send an email to Prof. Grant Williams ([email protected]) and Dr. Shen Chong ([email protected]) with PhDscholarship in “MacD Institute Topological Insulator Nanoparticles” 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 that satisfies Victoria Universities requirements

·        Your expected starting date