Quantum dynamics of electrons in emerging 2D devices (Ref: PH/MG-SF1/2026)

Two-dimensional (2D) materials are at the forefront of research in quantum phenomena in condensed matter, with many research groups worldwide currently exploring their fundamental properties and applications. A large number of different types of 2D materials exist and each offer a wide variety of different properties. These monolayers can be stacked to create van der Waals (vdW) heterostructures that are designed with specific “built-in” device functionality. The properties of these stacks depend critically on their layer configuration and can be dramatically modified by controlling the relative “twist” angle between the lattices of the layers.

The aim of this project is to develop models to understand and predict new quantum transport phenomena of electron moving between and within the layers of novel vdW heterostructures. You will theoretically investigate the electronic properties of different layer configurations of graphene with different 2D semiconductors and consider the effect of strain, “twist” angle and magnetic fields.

You will be apart of a strong community of PhD, PostDoctoral, academic and research staff at Loughborough who are also investigating the electronic properties of 2D materials. You will also benefit from interactions with our project partners working at other institutions around the world.

Name of primary supervisor/CDT lead:
Mark Greenaway m.t.greenaway@lboro.ac.uk

Entry requirements:
Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2:1 Honours degree (or equivalent) in physics or a related subject. A relevant Master’s degree and/or experience in one or more of the following will be an advantage: computational, condensed matter, and/or theoretical physics. We would particularly welcome applicants who are highly motivated, creative and scientifically curious.

English language requirements:
Applicants must meet the minimum English language requirements. Further details are available on the International website (http://www.lboro.ac.uk/international/applicants/english/).

Bench fees required: No

Closing date of advert: 31st July 2026

Start date: October 2026

Full-time/part-time availability: Full-time 3 years, Part-time 6 years

Fee band: 2025/26 Band RB (UK £5,006, International £28,600)