Development of Novel 2D materials for Electronic and Biomedical Applications
Project Description
The aim of the project is to investigate a new, unique and highly novel process for the production of two-dimensional (2D) "graphene-like" materials and to explore electronic and biomedical device applications using these processes.
Graphene was initially heralded as a 2D wonder material for future applications but transfer to viable applications has been extremely limited so far. The major problem is its lack of a sizeable bandgap, which limits its real potential for electronic device research and production. “Beyond graphene” is now the motto for the rapidly expanding advanced-functional materials research field with researchers focusing on transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) 2D materials due to their more favourable electronic structures. For example, sizeable direct bandgap and photoluminescence in few-layered MoS2 have already opened up the way for novel field-effect transistors and optoelectronic devices. However, the lack of a cost efficient and scalable process for large-area production presents a major challenge which has restricted the progress in this field from a mere scientific curiosity to a mature technology. Beyond electronic applications, the superlubrication properties of few-layered TMDs also offer important opportunities for reconstruction medicine but the process for fabrication of these materials on non-uniform and plastic surfaces is currently missing.
This project will create an exciting opportunity for the candidate to develop her/himself into an interdisciplinary researcher of the highest calibre, capable of making, characterising and processing nanostructured materials into biomedical and electronic devices. Jointly mentored training will be provided throughout the project, covering modern techniques for thin film deposition which will also comprise hands-on experience in the fabrication of thin films by thermal evaporation, pulsed laser deposition and vapour transport techniques. As a part of the interdisciplinary team the candidate will explore nano- and micro-scale 2D and 3D patterning of the atomically thin TMD films in order to demonstrate (1) novel field effect transistors (FETs) with improved on/off ratio and (2) joint reconstruction applications for improved prosthesis design. This will be achieved by optimising the manufacturing process for the 2D films with a focus on its integration with current Si-based technology. Careful assessment of the materials’ electrical transport and structural properties will be executed through fine control over the number of layers in these films, the level of defects and monitoring the chemical structure by spectroscopy, field-effect mobility by Hall measurements and atomic structure by electron microscopy. At the same time the second strand of the project will commence with a specific goal to evaluate the biocompatibility and anti-fouling performance of the fabricated 2D products by cytotoxicity assays with cell interactions.
More details about the research groups involved in this project can be found by following the links below:
http://www.gla.ac.uk/schools/chemistry/staff/alexeyganin/
http://www.nedds.co.uk/
http://www.donaldmaclaren.info/
http://www.gla.ac.uk/researchinstitutes/biology/staff/matthewdalby/
Person specification:
You are expected to have 1st class degree BSc (Hons) in Chemistry, Physics or Bio/Electronic Engineering. An equivalent degree for EU and international students is required. A relevant Masters degree would be an advantage.
Application details:
The applicants should make contact the Lead Supervisors of the project to Dr Alexey Ganin (Alexey.Ganin@glasgow.ac.uk) by emailing:
• Your full CV
• Degree transcripts (please only include relevant pages of transcripts and preferably only the English language translations of overseas transcripts)
• Evidence of English language proficiency (if relevant see for more details: http://www.gla.ac.uk/international/englishlanguagerequirements/#tabs=2)
• Statement expressing their particular attributes and/or achievements and suitability to undertake the proposed project.
Funding Notes
The studentship provides a tax free stipend of £14,254 per annum for four years plus tuition fees at the UK/EU/International rate.
