Design and synthesis of photoresponsive organic spin-state switches

About the Project

Supervisors:

Dr George Williams G.t.williams@soton.ac.uk; Dr Karl Michael Ziems K.M.Ziems@soton.ac.uk

This project, within the EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training in Quantum Technology Engineering at the University of Southampton (https://qte.ac.uk), carries a UKRI TechExpert enhanced annual stipend around £31k for UK students. While researching the project outlined below you will also receive substantial training in scientific, technical, and commercial skills.

Project Description:

Controlling molecular spin states remotely (i.e. with light) is key to enabling next generation quantum sensing and computing technologies. This project will focus on the synthesis and characterisation of novel all organic photoswitches that will enable control over radical persistence and/or dynamic spin state interactions.

Molecular photoswitches undergo reversible structural changes in response to light and are the cornerstone of many stimuli responsive materials. Whilst they have found a range of applications in biomedical and material fields, their use in controlling spin-states is more limited [1]. The properties of organic photoswitches can be altered through judicious synthetic alterations, enabling access to tuneable half-lives, activation wavelengths, distances between positions and photostationary states. Achieving such precise control over properties make all organic spin state photoswitches ideal candidates for the development of novel technologies including quantum sensing and as qubits for quantum computers. This strategy also circumvents the issues of conventional spin state switches, which are often based on toxic metal complexes, enabling the development of more environmentally benign technologies. This project will use chemistry recently developed in the Williams group to synthesise novel photoswitches with tuneable properties which enable the control over the spin state using low energy (long wavelength) light. In doing so, the candidate will gain expertise in: • Organic synthesis • Photophysical characterisation • Quantum chemical calculations • Advanced NMR techniques The project will be jointly supervised by Dr George Williams and Dr Karl Michael Ziems, who will support the experimental and theoretical aspects respectively. The ideal candidate will have a good grounding in organic synthesis, and a willingness to learn computational and spectroscopic techniques as they apply to the project. [1] DOI: 10.1002/anie.202512691

For more information, please contact the supervisor: Dr George Williams G.t.williams@soton.ac.uk

Entry Requirements:

Undergraduate degree (at least UK 2:1 honours degree, or international equivalent).

Closing Date:

31 July 2026. International applicants must apply before 31 March 2026.

Funding:

See funding notes below.

How to Apply:

Please apply via the online portal and select:

• Programme type: Research
• Academic year: 2026/27
• Full time or part time
• Faculty: Engineering and Physical Sciences

Search for programme PhD Quantum Tech Eng

Please add the name of the supervisor in section 2 of the application.

Applications should include:

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

We are committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusivity and give full consideration to applicants seeking part-time study. The University of Southampton takes personal circumstances into account, has onsite childcare facilities, is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.

Funding Notes

Funding on a competitive basis.

UK students receive a 4-year UKRI TechExpert tax-free stipend around £31k per year (UKRI minimum +10k); studentships at the UKRI base rate are available for EU and Horizon Europe students and International students. Overseas students who have or are seeking external funding are welcome to apply.