About the Project
Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University · School of Mathematics and Physics · Dr Chen Xuan
Applications accepted all year round. Self-Funded PhD Students Only.
To cultivate research talents with global leadership, interdisciplinary innovation capabilities, and international research collaboration capabilities, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) fully leverages its characteristics of international education and builds upon the long-established strategic cooperation among XJTLU, Xi’an Jiaotong University (XJTU), and the University of Liverpool (UoL). This initiative integrates top-tier research resources to launch a Joint Doctoral Supervision Programme across the three institutions.
Thermoelectric energy conversion technology can directly convert thermal energy into electrical energy by using the temperature difference. The bottleneck that restricts the improvement of the output power density of flexible thermoelectric devices is how to realize the decoupling of the three key thermoelectric parameters (electrical conductivity, Seebeck coefficient and thermal conductivity). In order to solve this bottleneck, the applicant intends to carry out research from three levels: the thermoelectric parameters de-coupling mechanism, the preparation method of thermoelectric materials, and the structural design of thermoelectric devices: to reveal a new mechanism of thermoelectric parameters de-coupling based on the carrier quantum confinement effect and the mean free path difference between phonon and electron, to use the discontinuous characteristics of nanomaterials to control the Fermi level close to the van Hove singularity through doping, to achieve the decoupling of conductivity and Seebeck coefficient, and to control the cross-sectional width of nanomaterials to scatter phonon conduction electrons, so as to realize the decoupling of conductivity and thermal conductivity; The influence of temperature and solution on the arrangement of carbon nanotubes in the film will be systematically studied, and a new method for the preparation of high-density carbon nanotube films with good orientation and density based on the temperature Marangoni effect will be proposed. It is proposed to design a new device with variable cross-section and joint- free structure, which fundamentally eliminates the contact resistance in the device and provides the output power density of flexible thin-film thermoelectric devices. The relevant mechanisms and research results will enhance the innovation ability of China's thermoelectric energy conversion field from the theory, method and technical source, and promote the application of thin-film thermoelectric devices in waste heat power generation.
Joint Supervisory Team:
- XJTLU supervisor: Dr Chen Xuan
- XJTU supervisor: Professor Hong Wang
- UoL supervisor: Professor Karl Coleman
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
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 Dr Chen Xuan (chen.xuan@xjtlu.edu.cn) or Professor Hong Wang (hong.wang@xjtu.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
Where will I study?
Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University
Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) is an international joint-venture university founded by Xi’an Jiaotong University in China and the University of Liverpool in the UK, which captures the essence of both parent universities, offering students the opportunity to obtain globally recognised UK degree and a unique life experience within China.
Project supervisors
Dr Chen Xuan
Dr Chen Xuan's profile is coming soon
This is a Preview Listing…
You must sign in to see the full job description, and to apply.
Manage / Upgrade this job to a Full Job Listing.
Find Your Best Opportunity
Tell them AcademicJobs.com sent you!

