The project:
The Bristol Interaction Group at the University of Bristol is offering a fully funded studentship to a highly motivated candidate to begin a PhD in September 2022.
Printed electronics is a growing field based on a wide range of printing techniques, most of which require an atmosphere free from dust and particles. Typically, this demands controlled ‘cleanrooms’ which filter contaminants from the environment to a particular size threshold.
Acoustophoresis is the process of manipulating droplets and particles within acoustic fields, and is increasingly applied in biological, chemical, environmental and medical engineering. Applications include pollution monitoring, scent control and pathogen filtering. Our primary interest in this project is to minimise contamination for thin-film lithography. These techniques could support in-air sorting and separation based on size and density, by algorithmically adjusting ultrasonic parameters to generate acoustic radiation forces or streaming effects in bespoke patterns.
In this PhD, you will explore the application of acoustophoresis to filter contaminants from the printing region. You will design, implement, and evaluate filtering techniques on thin-film lithography. The resulting process will enable in situ printed devices, effectively supporting a low-cost, portable cleanroom.
How to apply:
Prior to application interested candidates should contact Professor Mike Fraser (mike.fraser@bristol.ac.uk) with a degree transcript and a motivation letter expressing relevant skills and interest in this project. Informal inquiries are encouraged.
To apply for this studentship, submit a PhD application using our online application system
Please ensure that in the Funding section you tick “I would like to be considered for a funding award from the Computer Science Department” and specify the title of the scholarship in the “other” box below along with the name of the supervisor. Applications will remain open until the position is filled.
Candidate requirements:
Applicants must hold/achieve a minimum of a Master’s degree (or international equivalent) in a relevant discipline e.g. electrical, mechanical or materials engineering, physics or computing. Applicants without a Master’s qualification may be considered on an exceptional basis, provided they hold a first-class undergraduate degree. Please note, acceptance will also depend on evidence of readiness to pursue a research degree.
If English is not your first language, you need to meet this profile level:
Profile E
Further information about English language requirements and profile levels.
Basic skills and knowledge required include excellent analytical skills and experimental acumen. And a background understanding in one or more of the following: Electrical and Electronic Engineering; Modelling and Simulation; Material Characterisation; Programming and Algorithms
Funding:
Available for UK/EU students (UK settled status) with permanent UK residency covering tuition fees (at the UK student rate) and a tax-free stipend for 3.5 years
Contacts:
For questions about eligibility and the application process please contact sceem-pgr-admissions@bristol.ac.uk