PhD Studentship- Artificial Retina with Organic Electronics: Optical and Electrical Characterisation of Organic Semiconductors, Simulations of Device Pixels/Neural Interface and High Definition Ink-Jet Printing of Semiconducting Inks (036217)

Many people suffer from partial or complete loss of vision due to the degradation of light-sensitive receptors in retina. Restoring vision by implanting silicon based devices is very challenging due the rejection of inorganic materials by human tissues. We will explore a different approach where damaged retina photoreceptors can be supplemented with organic semiconductor pixels, which are carbon-based materials and thus are close to human body composition. We will consider the feasibility of creating an artificial retina based on three-colour pixelated novel organic semiconductors with different bandgaps. A prototype device will be fabricated using precision ink-jet printing of organic molecular inks. The project will involve optical and electrical characterisation of organic semiconductors, simulations of device pixels/neural interface and high definition ink-jet printing of semiconducting inks.

Applicant Specifications:

-Good undergraduate or masters degree and strong background in either of the disciplines: electronic engineering, physical chemistry, materials, physics

-Good hands-on and analytical skills

-Demonstrated excellent aptitude for research

Contacts and how to apply:

Candidates are asked to contact Dr Maxim Shkunov (m.shkunov@surrey.ac.uk) in the first instance. Applications should be submitted online through the link available on Electronic Engineering PhD web page (http://www.surrey.ac.uk/postgraduate/electronic-engineering-phd). During the application process you will be asked to submit relevant documents including a CV, covering letter, transcript of your degree. In the project proposal section of the application please enter the project title given above and identify that you wish to work with Dr Shkunov at Advanced Technology Institute, Electrical and Electronic Engineering.

Funding Notes:

-Funding duration for the projects: 3 years

-The successful candidate will need to meet the EPSRC nationality criteria to be eligible for the funding (View Website).

-Self-funded applicants are welcome to apply.

Closing Date: 15 Jun 2017
Category: PhD Studentships