PhD Studentship: MEMS sensor with integrated low-dimensional nanomaterials for molecular detection

Deadline: Applications will be accepted at any time until the position is filled.

Low-dimensional nanomaterials often possess superior electrical, thermal and mechanical properties compared to their bulk counterparts, stimulating intense research activities in the past two decades. In addition, the size-dependent optoelectronic properties of low-dimensional nanomaterials  e.g. quantum size effect, quantum confinement effect, surface effect, quantum tunnelling effect etc. have led to significant applications in areas such as bio-labelling, functionalization and chemical sensing. In this project, MEMS sensors integrated with low-dimensional nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes, graphene and various nanowires, will be investigated for sensing applications. The objective is to develop a general sensor platform for molecular detection, with applications in environmental sensing and water monitoring.

This project is part of a collaboration between the University of Southampton and Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology (A*STAR SIMTech). This project will build upon previous  work at Southampton to functionalize carbon based nanomaterials. In addition, SIMTech provides prior experience in carbon nanotube functionalization as well as biosensor fabrication. Emphasis will be placed on demonstrating the use of low-dimensional nanomaterials as an effective sensing interface for binding to target molecules. The sensitivity and selectivity of the sensing platform will also be optimised in order to develop a practical sensor suited for field applications.

The successful candidate will spend two years at SIMTech and during this time he will be supervised by Dr Ju Nie Tey and Dr Wei Jun from SIMTech. The candidate will be supervised by Dr Suan Hui Pu and Prof John McBride whilst based at the University of Southampton.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Dr Suan Hui Pu, USMC and Electromechanical Research Group, Email: suanhui.pu@southampton.ac.uk  Tel: +60 7 560 2 461

Funding Notes: The first 2 years will be in the A*STAR SIMTech in Singapore. During this period A*STAR will pay a monthly stipend of S$2,500, a one-time settling-in allowance of S$1,000 and a one-time airfare grant of S$1,500. Medical insurance will be provided for the duration of the stay in Singapore. The final 2 years will be split between the University of Southampton Malaysia Campus (USMC) and the parent campus in Southampton, UK. University tuition fees (at EU/UK level) and a tax-free bursary of £13,900 per year will be provided.