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Institution: University of Southampton
United Kingdom
Retrieved : 2020-06-20 Expired
Description :

Supervisory Team:    Dr Iris Nandhakumar, Professor Steve Beeby

Project description

The Internet of things (IoT) is generating a great deal of interest in relation to next-generation smart network monitoring systems. However, it is challenging to maintain millions or even billions of sensor units widely spread  in hard to access or dangerous locations. With those billions of things come billions of batteries that must be purchased, maintained, and disposed of. Energy harvesting presents a straightforward solution for easily powering those remote devices using clean energy.  Thermoelectric generators (TEGs) can provide a potential solution as they can convert heat into electricity, are safe, long-lasting and maintenance-free with zero-emissions.  TEG technology has already been exploited in several commercial devices starting with the Seiko Thermic watch  and different body sensors e.g. wireless electrocardiogram (ECG) and pulse oximeter sensors. The aim of this project is to realize a new breed of printable and truly flexible hybrid TEGs, interfacing nanostructured inorganic materials with conducting organic polymers that can be entirely processed from solution. These are targeted for low power applications in remote sensing applications.

The expected outcome from the proposed research are a new breed of low cost TEGs that will be suitable for powering remote sensing networks in hard to access locations which removes their reliance on batteries. This will result in considerable cost savings arising from the maintenance, purchase and disposal of batteries which is essential for increasing the uptake of remote sensing technology.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Dr Iris Nandhakumar, Electrochemistry Research Group, Email: iris@soton.ac.uk, Tel: +44 (0) 2380 59 6877.

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: applications should be received no later than 31 August 2020 for standard admissions, but later applications may be considered depending on the funds remaining in place.

Funding: full tuition fees for EU/UK students plus for UK students, an enhanced stipend of £15,285 tax-free per annum for up to 3.5 years. 

How To Apply

Applications should be made online, please select the academic session 2020-21 “PhD Eng & Env (Full time)” as the programme. Please enter IRIS Centre under the proposed supervisor.

Applications should include: 

Curriculum Vitae

Two reference letters

Degree Transcripts to date

Apply online: https://www.southampton.ac.uk/courses/how-to-apply/postgraduate-applications.page

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk 


Closing Date: 31 Aug 2020
Post Type: PhD Studentship (Funded)





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