PhD Studentship in machine learning and atmospheric chemistry
Background
A four-year full-time PhD research position is available to work on a new project called SUREDETECT, which is an innovative project focused on developing a novel, silicon-based sensor for electrical detection of atmospheric ammonia (NH3).
The researcher will be based jointly in the Centre for Research into Atmospheric Chemistry (CRAC), and the Materials Chemistry Research Group (MCR), which are key research centres within the School of Chemistry and the Environmental Research Institute at University College Cork.
The project involves development and testing of surface-functionalised, silicon-based platforms for electrical detection of ammonia. The project involves multi-disciplinary research drawing on surface science, materials chemistry, atmospheric chemistry and machine learning.
Expected Skill Set
We are seeking an enthusiastic, motivated person with a high level of initiative, capable of working independently and within a team. The candidate should have fluent English and excellent communication, organization, planning and interpersonal skills.
Ideally, the candidate will have a background and/or an interest in one or more of the following areas:
- air quality monitoring
- multivariate data analysis
- silicon device fabrication and testing
- electrical characterisation of materials
- statistical and machine learning techniques
- scientific computing software, e.g. Matlab, R, Python or Julia
- Surface and materials or atmospheric chemistry
- designing and/or conducting experimental research.
This work will require the researcher to undertake some occasional travel to conduct experiments in partner organisations. Regular communication and co-operation with stakeholders (project partners, Research Ireland) will also be required.
Qualifications
Minimum 2:1 undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in chemistry, physics, materials science, or a similar discipline with a strong component of physical sciences.
- Applicants whose first language is not English must show evidence of English proficiency, please check the minimum requirements at:
https://www.ucc.ie/en/study/comparison/english/
Funding Details
Research Ireland funds this research project, which is coordinated by researchers in CRAC (Dr Stig Hellebust, Prof. John Wenger) and the MCR group (Prof. Justin Holmes, Dr Subhajit Biswas).
This full-time PhD position is funded for 4 years months including a stipend of €25,000 per annum. The studentship will also cover fees at the rate for EU students.
The scholarship for the PhD degree is subject to academic approval.
Further information
The PhD candidate will work with a team of scientists in the Centre for Research into Atmospheric Chemistry (CRAC) and the Materials Chemistry Research (MCR) group.
The Materials Chemistry Research (MCR) group, led by Prof. Justin Holmes, is a large interdisciplinary team that includes researchers from various fields such as synthetic chemistry, surface chemistry, materials chemistry, physics, and nanoelectronics. Its primary focus is on developing functional and sustainable nanomaterials and devices for applications in electronics, optoelectronics, energy harvesting, energy storage, catalysis, and plastic recycling. Information about the group can be found at: https://mcag.ucc.ie/
The CRAC conducts research on atmospheric composition and its influence on climate, air quality, health and the environment. The centre is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities for: (i) Laboratory simulations of atmospheric processes, (ii) Development of new atmospheric measurement techniques, (iii) Field measurements and modelling to determine sources and impacts of pollution. More information on the CRAC can be found at the following link: https://www.ucc.ie/en/crac/
The CRAC has been a European leader in atmospheric chemistry research for over two decades and performs a wide range of research activities, including laboratory, field and modelling studies related to atmospheric chemistry, air quality and climate.
As part of the School of Chemistry (https://www.ucc.ie/en/chemistry/) the CRAC is fully committed to equality, diversity and inclusion in every area of work, for both students and colleagues. The School of Chemistry is proud to hold an Athena SWAN Bronze Award.