About the Project
This PhD will establish a new platform for controlling light-matter interactions at molecular dimensions by exploiting Ångström-scale channels formed within van der Waals heterostructures. The project will investigate what happens when molecules are confined between two atomically flat surfaces separated by only a few Ångströms, where molecular dimensions, dielectric screening and electromagnetic interactions become intrinsically coupled. The central hypothesis is that this extreme confinement…
can modify not only molecular structure and vibrational states, but also the pathways by which an excited molecule releases energy, providing a route to control optical emission.
Objectives: (1) fabricate and characterise Ångström-scale channels with controlled heights and 2D-material interfaces; (2) establish how molecular confinement changes molecular vibrational/electronic states and optical emission; (3) investigate coupling between confined molecular excitations and strongly confined optical modes supported by graphene and hBN; and (4) determine whether atomic-scale geometry can be used to control emission intensity, energy, linewidth and lifetime, establishing principles for Ångström-scale optical devices.
The student will fabricate van der Waals heterostructures containing graphene, hBN and optically active 2D materials, incorporating channels with systematically varied heights from the nanometre to Ångström regime. Molecular and liquid-phase systems will initially provide well-defined model environments, with the specific molecular species selected according to their optical/vibrational signatures and compatibility with the device geometry. AFM and optical microscopy will be used to characterise the heterostructures and channel architecture. Vibrational spectroscopy will be used to investigate the molecular response, while spatially and spectrally resolved optical emission and photoluminescence measurements will probe radiative pathways. Where feasible, time-resolved measurements will determine changes in excited-state lifetime. By comparing otherwise identical devices with different channel heights, the project will separate effects arising from molecular confinement, surface interactions and modification of the local electromagnetic environment. Molecular dynamics and electromagnetic/electronic modelling will support interpretation and identify the mechanisms responsible for observed changes.
The expected outcome is a quantitative understanding of how molecular excitation and emission evolve as confinement approaches the Ångström limit, including whether molecular excitations can couple to graphene plasmonic or hBN phonon-polaritonic modes. A successful outcome would establish Ångström-scale channels as a new platform for molecular photonics and could lead to atomically thin, molecularly programmable infrared emitters, modulators or optical sensors.
The student will receive interdisciplinary training in 2D-materials fabrication and van der Waals assembly, AFM, Ångström-scale nanofluidics, optical spectroscopy, photoluminescence, time-resolved measurements, device fabrication and understanding or collaboration with experts in molecular/electromagnetic modelling. They will be supported through close supervision within an established research environment spanning 2D materials, Ångström-scale confinement and optical spectroscopy, with access to specialist nanofabrication, microscopy and synchrotron facilities through established collaborations. Training will combine hands-on laboratory work, research-group seminars and collaborative facility experiments, preparing the student for research careers across nanoscience, photonics and advanced materials.
This project is ideal for students with a background in physics, physical chemistry, materials science, electrical engineering, or nanotechnology who are motivated by the challenge of working at the boundaries of nanoscience and unconventional computing. A strong curiosity for experimental research and a willingness to learn across disciplines will be key to success.
This project is expected to start in September 2027.
Before you apply:
We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisors for this project before you apply.
How to apply:
To be considered for this project you must complete a formal application through our online application portal. When applying, please specify the full title and supervisor/s of the project, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees. You must also upload a Supporting Statement describing your motivation to apply to the project, your CV and transcripts of awarded and in-progress university qualifications. Please note late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Equality, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester and central to all our activities. A diverse research community strengthens creativity, productivity and quality, while increasing the societal and economic impact of our work. We welcome applicants from all career paths, backgrounds and sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation or transgender status.
We welcome applications from candidates returning to study after a career break or experience in other roles. Flexible study arrangements may be available, including part-time study at 50%, 60% or 80%, subject to the requirements of the project and funder.
Eligibility: The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science or Electrical Engineering (or international equivalent) OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master's degree at merit in Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science or Electrical Engineering (or international equivalent). Previous research experience in nanofabrication, coding in python or labview, optical spectroscopy measurements, 2D materials is desirable.
This project will remain open until filled.
If your application is submitted by 1st November 2026, you can expect a decision by 18th December 2026.
If your application is submitted by 15th January 2027, you can expect a decision by 30th March 2027.
Self or externally funded students can also be considered for this project.
FSE_SoNS
Funding Notes
Funding covers tuition fees, an annual stipend at the UKRI minimum rate (currently £21,805 per year), and a research training support grant of up to £2,500 per year for the full 3.5-year programme.