Novel Nanoswimmers - exploring novel routes to propulsion at the nanoscale.

About the Project

Nanoswimmers are nanoscale objects that propel themselves through liquid environments. The combination of their size ( 1x10-9m), and the apparent viscosity at this scale, results in propulsion strategies that often mimic those found in nature at this scale. Biological systems are effectively powered via chemical reactions, and so, many nanoswimmers are powered by chemical reaction. For autonomous nanoswimmers, which have on-board motors, there is often a catalyst “engine” which will process a liquid fuel to generate a propulsive effect. Other strategies to generate motion in these particles include the application of an external field, such as a magnetic field to generate rotation, or the application of laser radiation to asymmetrically heat the nanoswimmers, producing a force on the particle, and making it move.

As such research into nanoswimmers sits firmly at the interface between Physics, Biology, Chemistry, and Materials and calls upon fabrication techniques often found in the semiconductor industry.

This PhD opportunity will explore new and novel routes into this group of materials. They will be required to develop an understanding of the chemistry, physics, and fluid dynamics of these systems whilst developing novel imaging approaches to study their behaviour.

The project will see the student working with academics with a strong background in this field, in well-equipped laboratories.

Applications for research programmes with synergies to the above described research are also welcomed.

How to apply:

Applicants should have a minimum of an upper second class honours degree in Physical Sciences and Engineering, such as Materials Science, Physics, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering. If English is not your first language then you must have an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) average of 6.5 or above with at least 6.0 in each component, or equivalent. Please see this link for further information: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/phd/apply/english-language.

Please see this link for information on how to apply: https://www.sheffield.ac.uk/cbe/postgraduate/phd/how-apply. Please include the name of your proposed supervisor and the title of the PhD project within your application.