Chemical and electrochemical deposition of 2D nanomaterial films

About the Project

Supervisory Team: Professor Andrew Hector, Dr Ruomeng Huang and Dr Shibin Thomas

This research forms part of a large multidisciplinary project examining 2D semiconductors and technologies needed to implement them. This part explores the 2D insulator boron nitride, and involves chemical and electrochemical deposition.

Boron nitride is a two-dimensional material sometimes referred to as “white graphene” since it is isostructural with graphene, but insulating and so white. Very thin films provide an ideal insulating surface for the growth of 2D semiconductor films with a van der Waals surface for that growth. We are also interested in applying them in memristors with applications in neuromorphic computing.

We have shown that hexagonal boron nitride can be grown parallel to particle surfaces and here will develop methods to grow it on flat conductors or insulators. This will start with chemical vapour deposition, but electrochemical growth methods will also be pioneered. We will then grow 2D semiconductors over the boron nitride using electrochemical methods to evaluate their effect on the semiconductor properties.

You'll develop experience and skills in handling air-sensitive precursors, materials deposition, and structural, compositional and functional characterisation techniques. Full training will be given in the relevant lab techniques and we have a world-leading programme available in electrochemistry through our MSc and summer school. Your work will be carried out in the Schools of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and Electronics and Computer Science.

This project is aligned with the EPSRC EXPRESS programme grant (Exploiting Single Source Precursors for the Electrochemical Growth of Functional 1D and 2D Metal Dichalcogenide Semiconductors). This provides an opportunity to work in a multidisciplinary team in Southampton and Warwick undertaking activity across precursor synthesis, electrochemical deposition of semiconductors, detailed materials and electrochemical characterisation studies, and exemplar fabrication.

Entry requirements

You must have a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in chemistry or a closely related discipline.

Fees and funding

This project is funded by the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences (FEPS), and associated with the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) Programme Grant.

For UK and Horizon Europe countries students, tuition fees will be paid and you will receive an annual stipend for up to 3.5 years.

How to apply

Apply now

You need to:

• choose programme type (Research), 2026/27, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
• select Full time or Part time
• search for programme PhD Chemistry (7189)
• add name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application

Applications should include:

• your CV (resumé)
• 2 academic references
• degree transcripts and certificates to date
• English language qualification (if applicable)