Job Description
Ph.D. studentship: Green energy storage: development of sustainable supercapacitors by direct laser writing of natural materialsContract: Full Time/FixedTermThe Nanotechnology group and the Materials modelling for devices group in Tyndall are offering a fully funded PhD position in a new exciting project: Green energy storage: development of sustainable supercapacitors by direct laser writing of natural materials (SUPER-GREEN) supported by Science Foundation Ireland through the SFI/IRC Pathway Program. The anticipated start date of the PhD is December 1st 2024.Project DescriptionThe rapid increase in demand for powered connected devices poses environmental concerns both in terms of high energy production requirements and end-of-life disposal. Implementation of eco-friendly energy storage systems and self-powered solutions is crucial to ensure future sustainability of such devices. Accordingly, SUPER-GREEN proposes the development of novel self-powered and eco-friendly supercapacitor energy storage materials, whereby electrode materials will be fabricated by direct laser writing of biopolymers, while eco-friendly materials will be used as electrolytes. The capabilities of developed structures will be assessed through the demonstration of energy storage capability through the supercapacitive behaviour, towards realisation of next generation all natural green supercapacitor devices.The work in this exciting PhD program involves:Production of laser induced graphene using efficient CO2 laser writing.Creation of a database of natural materials based formulations (cork, chitosan) that can be converted into laser-induced graphene via laser writing.Fabrication of green electrodes suitable for use as energy storage devices.Synthesis of novel sustainable electrolytes that can replace the existing unsustainable standard electrolytes in supercapacitor devices.Assembling of a proof-of-concept “all green” supercapacitor energy storage device, where both the electrodes and the electrolyte are made of sustainable materials.Collaborating with colleagues abroad to assemble a demonstrator self-charging cell, where the green supercapacitor fabricated in this project is coupled with other devices (such as a triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs)) that harvest energy, and used to power an output device such as a small LED screen.Training opportunities both in Ireland and abroad to acquire knowledge in material synthesis, device fabrication and characterisation.Participation in relevant summer schools and conference to showcase your research.Key ResponsibilitiesAs the successful candidate, you will:Design, develop and characterise biodegradable material formulations sourced from natural materials and suitable for fabrication of porous electrodes by direct laser writing.Develop and characterise graphene-like carbon green electrode materials with controlled physico-chemical characteristics.Develop and characterise sustainable electrolyte solutions to be incorporated in a supercapacitor device.Work with colleagues within the Nanotechnology Group, across Tyndall, and within the CONNECT Research Centre (www.connectcentre.ie) and international partners in Italy and Portugal to develop novel all-green supercapacitors devices with low environmental footprints.Participate in Education and Public Engagement activities.Ensure compliance with Tyndall's Quality Management, and Health and Safety standards.Perform additional duties as required within the scope of the post.Essential CriteriaTo make the most of this exciting opportunity, you will:Have a strong honours undergraduate degree (minimum second-class honours, grade 1 (2.1), or equivalent) in Materials Science, Chemistry, Physics, Engineering.Have expertise in materials synthesis and characterisation.Have succeeded in self-motivated delivery of research projects at undergraduate level.Be passionate about working in partnership with our team to impart and co-develop expertise.Desirable CriteriaGood laboratory, communication and problem-solving skills.Have expertise in electrolyte solutions synthesis and characterisation.High levels of initiative, self-management, achievement-orientation, and motivation are encouraged.Expertise in electrochemistry, electrical/electrochemical sensing, nanomaterial fabrication.What we offer: A fully-funded PhD position that includes a stipend of €22,000/year for up to four years or graduation (whatever comes first) and full coverage of EU academic fees/tuition (€5,770/year). Full coverage of travel expenses to international conferences to present project outcomes. Training and development opportunities are also provided.Informal enquiries can be made in confidence to Dr. Alessandra Imbrogno (alessandra.imbrogno@tyndall.ie).Closing date of application is 31st October, 2024.Application InstructionsPostgraduate applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of English language proficiency as per UCC regulations (https://www.ucc.ie/en/study/comparison/english/postgraduate/). Certificates should be valid (usually less than 2 years old) and should be uploaded with their application.Please note that Garda vetting and/or an international police clearance check may form part of the selection process.The University, at its discretion, may undertake to make an additional appointment(s) from this competition following the conclusion of the process.Please note that an appointment to posts advertised will be dependent on University approval, together with the terms of the employment control framework for the higher education sector.Tyndall National Institute does not require the assistance of recruitment agencies.Tyndall National Institute at University College, Cork is an Equal Opportunities Employer. #J-18808-Ljbffr