Design of Bi6Ti5WO22-based series of solid solutions or composite dielectric tunable ceramics and related tunable devices

Programme across the three institutions.

This Joint PhD project, jointly supervised by Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU), Xi'an Jiaotong University (XJTU), and the University of Liverpool (UoL), aims to develop Bi₆Ti₅WO₂₂ (BTWO)-based tunable dielectric ceramics and microwave devices for nextgeneration phase shifters and phased-array systems.

The research will investigate BTWO-based solid solutions and composite ceramics incorporating low-permittivity, low-loss microwave dielectrics to overcome the high dielectric constant of BTWO while retaining high tunability and low dielectric loss. Controlled doping, compositing, synthesis, sintering, and microstructural engineering will be employed to optimize dielectric and microwave properties.

The project integrates materials synthesis, XRD/SEM/TEM/EDS/Raman/FTIR characterization, dielectric and ferroelectric measurements, microwave-frequency testing, electromagnetic simulation, and structure–property modelling. Optimized materials will be integrated into prototype microwave phase shifters/filters and tunable antenna devices for experimental validation.

The target is to achieve >30% effective tunability, dielectric loss <0.01, dielectric constant <100, and microwave operation above 1 GHz under moderate electric fields (<100 kV/cm). The project will provide interdisciplinary and international research training spanning functional ceramics, microwave materials, electromagnetic engineering, computational modelling, and device integration.

Joint Supervisory Team:

• XJTLU Supervisor: Dr. Arjun Kumar
• XJTLU Co-Supervisor: Dr. Abhishek Kandwal
• XJTU Co-supervisor: Professor D. Zhou
• UoL Co-supervisor: Professor Jiafeng Zhou

Requirements:

A UK first-class or upper second-class honours Bachelor's degree and a UK Master's degree with Merit (or their equivalent) are required for PhD admissions. Exceptional candidates holding only a Bachelor's degree may be considered on an individual basis.

Evidence of good spoken and written English is essential. The candidate should have an IELTS (or equivalent) score of 6.5 or above, if the first language is not English.

For more information about entry requirements and admission procedures of PhD programme at XJTLU, please visit:

• Entry Requirement - Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University
• How to Apply - Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University

Other Requirements (if any):

The candidates should have a background in materials science, electronic/electrical engineering, physics, or a closely related discipline. Knowledge or research experience in dielectric/ferroelectric ceramics, microwave materials, materials synthesis and characterization, electromagnetic simulation (HFSS/CST), or microwave engineering is desirable. Experience with XRD, SEM, dielectric measurements, data analysis, or scientific programming would be an advantage. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical, experimental, problem-solving, and scientific communication skills, together with an interest in interdisciplinary and international research.

Programme Structure and Fees:

Doctoral students in the joint programme are registered with both XJTLU and the UoL. Upon successful completion of the programme, the students will be awarded a PhD degree from University of Liverpool. During their doctoral studies at XJTLU, students are expected to conduct research at XJTU as visiting students. Additionally, students have the opportunity to apply for a short-term research visit to the UoL if the project requires it.

The joint doctoral programme is offered on a full-time basis, with a typical duration of three to four years. The tuition fee is RMB 99,000 per year.

How to Apply:

Interested applicants are advised to email Arjun.Kumar@xjtlu.edu.cn, Jiafeng.Zhou@liverpool.ac.uk, zhoudi1220@xjtu.edu.cn, abhishek.kandwal@xjtlu.edu.cn, the following documents for initial review and assessment (Please include the project title in the subject line):

• CV
• Two formal reference letters
• Personal statement outlining your interest in the position
• Certificates of English language qualifications (IELTS or equivalent)
• Full academic transcripts in both Chinese and English (for international students, only the English version is required)
• Verified certificates of education qualifications in both Chinese and English (for international students, only the English version is required)
• PDF copy of Master Degree dissertation (or an equivalent writing sample) and examiners reports available