Metal-organic framework composites for optoelectronics

Changing the way we use energy is pivotal in reducing emissions, and structural studies of emerging materials underpins next-generation technologies. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), more frequently associated with crystalline and porous structure with applications in chemical separations, have recently taken off in glassy and amorphous forms. Notably, they offer exceptional protective coatings for semiconductors used in solar energy and lighting applications for much needed extensions to device lifetimes. This project will develop and apply advanced electron microscopy approaches to probe these crystalline and amorphous composite structures and to understand their optical properties (e.g. absorption and luminescence).<br /> <br /> Scanning transmission electron microscopy offers unique insights into the nanometre to atomic scale structure of materials. However, MOFs are often very fragile when exposed to high energy electron beams, posing a significant challenge for electron microscopy of MOFs. At Leeds, we have been developing a suite of techniques for low-dose electron diffraction, spectroscopy, and imaging for MOFs and other beam-sensitive materials [1-3]. This project will build on these tools to gain insight into the fundamental principles MOF glasses and halide perovskite-MOF composites.<br /> <br /> The project will have a primary focus on structural and chemical characterisation, along with some opportunities to carry out MOF synthesis. The PhD researcher will receive training to drive forward their research using approaches including electron diffraction, pair distribution function analysis, and vibrational, optical, and core ionisation spectroscopy. The project will draw on materials science, chemistry, physics, and engineering principles. Applications are welcome from undergraduate degrees in any related field. <br /> <br /> We are keen to support and develop an inclusive community of researchers, with the aim for equity for marginalised researchers. If you are interested, please email Sean Collins (s.m.collins@leeds.ac.uk) for informal inquiries.<br /> <br /> [1] A. F. Sapnik et al. Commun. Chem. 2023, 6, 92.<br /> [2] J. Hou et al. Science 2021, 374, 621-625.<br /> [3] S. M. Collins et al. Nano Lett. 2021, 20, 1272-1279.

<p style="margin-bottom:11px"><strong>Additional information</strong></p> <p>The advanced electron microscopy techniques used in the project will involve the use of equipment at the University of Leeds and the Leeds Electron Microscopy and Spectroscopy (LEMAS) Centre at the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/bragg-centre-materials-research">Bragg Centre for Materials Research</a>. Instrumentation at LEMAS includes a new Tescan Tensor dedicated scanning transmission electron microscope, one of the first two installed in the world, as well as cryogenic plunge-freezing and cryo-transfer, focused ion beam facilities, and capabilities for electron beam spectroscopy, diffraction, and tomography (three-dimensional imaging).</p> <p>The PhD researcher working on this project will join an enthusiastic and creative team of researchers working across a range of topics from electron microscopy of organic semiconductors and small molecule organic crystals to MOF synthesis. The research group is joint between the School of Chemical and Process Engineering and the School of Chemistry at the University of Leeds. </p>

<p>Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University's website</a>. Please state clearly in the Planned Course of Study section that you are applying for <em><strong>PHD Chemical & Process Engineering FT</strong></em>, in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is <em><strong>Metal-organic framework composites for optoelectronics</strong></em> as well as <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/chemical-engineering/staff/8179/dr-sean-collins">Dr Sean Collins</a> as your proposed supervisor and in the finance section, please state clearly the <em><strong>funding source that you are applying for, if you are self-funding or externally sponsored.</strong></em></p> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p><em>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></p> <p style="margin-bottom:11px">Applications will be considered on an ongoing basis.  Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors for an informal discussion before making a formal application.  We also advise that you apply at the earliest opportunity as the application and selection process may close early, should we receive a sufficient number of applications or that a suitable candidate is appointed.</p> <p><strong>Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of Monday 6 January 2025 if applying for the China Scholarship Council-University of Leeds Scholarship, Monday 3 February 2025 if applying for Leeds Doctoral Scholarship or Tuesday 1 April 2025 for Leeds Opportunity Research Scholarship.</strong></p> <p style="margin-bottom:11px">If you are applying with external sponsorship or you are funding your own study, please ensure you provide your supporting documents at the point you submit your application:</p> <ul> <li>Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date</li> <li>Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>CV</li> </ul>

Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.

The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.

<p style="margin-bottom:11px"><strong>Self-Funded or externally sponsored students are welcome to apply.</strong></p> <p><strong>UK</strong> – The <a href="https://phd.leeds.ac.uk/funding/138-leeds-doctoral-scholarship-2025-faculty-of-engineering-and-physical-sciences#:~:text=Key%20facts&text=One%20Leeds%20Doctoral%20Scholarship%20is,rata%20for%20part%2Dtime%20study.">Leeds Doctoral Scholarship</a> (closing date: Monday 3 February 2025) and <a href="https://phd.leeds.ac.uk/funding/234-leeds-opportunity-research-scholarship-2022">Leeds Opportunity Research Scholarship</a> (closing date: Tuesday 1 April 2025) are available to UK applicants.  <a href="https://phd.leeds.ac.uk/funding/60-alumni-bursary">Alumni Bursary</a> is available to graduates of the University of Leeds.</p> <p><strong>Non-UK</strong> – The <a href="https://phd.leeds.ac.uk/funding/48-china-scholarship-council-university-of-leeds-scholarships-2021">China Scholarship Council - University of Leeds Scholarship</a> is available to nationals of China (closing date: Monday 6 January 2025). The <a href="https://phd.leeds.ac.uk/funding/73-leeds-marshall-scholarship">Leeds Marshall Scholarship</a> is available to support US citizens. <a href="https://phd.leeds.ac.uk/funding/60-alumni-bursary">Alumni Bursary</a> is available to graduates of the University of Leeds.</p> <p>You will be responsible for paying the overtime fee in full in your writing up/overtime year (£320 in Session 2024/25), but the scholarship maintenance allowance will continue to be paid for up to 6 months in the final year of award.</p> <p><strong>Important:</strong> Please note that that the award does <em><strong>not</strong></em> cover the costs associated with moving to the UK.  All such costs (<a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/international-visas-immigration/doc/applying-student-visa">visa, Immigration Health Surcharge</a>, flights etc) would have to be met by yourself, or you will need to find an alternative funding source. </p> <p>Please refer to the <a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a> website for information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals.</p>

<p>For further information about this project, please contact Dr Sean Collins by email to <a href="mailto:s.m.collins@leeds.ac.uk">s.m.collins@leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>For further information about your application, please contact PGR Admissions by email to <a href="mailto:phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk">phd@engineering.leeds.ac.uk</a></p>