PhD Studentship in Materials Discovery

University of Cambridge -Department of Physics

Limit of tenure: 30 September 2016

Applications are invited for a PhD studentship in the group of Dr Andrew Morris (http://www.winton.phy.cam.ac.uk/directory/ajm255@cam.ac.uk). The starting date is from 1st April or 1st October 2013.

In this project we will use cutting-edge computational structure prediction techniques to investigate the feasibility of high-capacity replacements of graphite anodes in lithium ion batteries (LIB).

It is very difficult to "see" the structure of materials over the length scales that they work and very expensive to create prototype materials to test. The ab initio random structure searching method (AIRSS) uses a stochastic approach to suggest different structural configurations of atoms within a material. By searching over a range of stoichiometries it is possible to model how a battery is charged as we can predict the structural changes of the electrodes as a charging potential is applied. Using this knowledge it is possible to perform further theoretical analysis such as NMR and EELS (electron energy loss) spectroscopies and to predict charge and discharge voltages.

The Candidate:

We are looking for highly motivated candidates interested in structure prediction who hold a masters-level degree in physics, chemistry, materials science or related disciplines. An ability to collaborate with theorists and experimentalists from different disciplines is essential. A strong background in theoretical condensed matter physics, a familiarity with UNIX and computational physics are all desirable.

Funding:

Funding has been obtained for 3.5 years through the Winton Programme for the Physics of Sustainability. The studentship will cover the cost of tuition fees for UK/EU residents plus a stipend at the EPSRC rate of ?13,590 per annum, overseas applicants are eligible to apply, but would be required to find the difference between Overseas and UK/EU fees from other sources.

To apply:

To express interest please apply to Dr Andrew Morris, ajm255@cam.ac.uk including a covering letter with details of how you meet the selection criteria, along with a curriculum vitae, a summary of accomplishments and the name and contact details of three referees. To be received no later than 31st January 2013.

Applicants are required to also submit a standard application to the university (GRADSAF) - see the Apply Link below.

Details regarding the application procedure can be found on the Dept. of Physics website: http://www.phy.cam.ac.uk/admissions/graduate/

For informal inquiries please contact Dr Andrew Morris, ajm255@cam.ac.uk

Quote Reference: KA23942

Closing Date: 31 January 2013

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