About the project
The aim of the project is to work on state-of-the-art heteropolymetallic architectures (polynuclear lanthanide clusters) in the area of luminescence, specifically two-photon processes – upconversion and downconversion (quantum cutting).
We are searching for a highly motivated individual who is interested in a PhD in inorganic chemistry with Dr. Richard Knighton, starting in October 2024.
Upconversion (UC) and downconversion (DC) are of paramount importance for the advancement of new quantum themes such as sensors for medicine and quantum computing.
Research into the mechanism of UC and DC is relatively limited due to the media in which they operate – primarily solid-state or lanthanide nanoparticle materials.
This project will investigate the properties of a novel class of heteropolymetallic lanthanide complexes for upconversion, permitting a deeper understanding of the mechanism of photon upconversion.
This is an area of high priority and novelty, only five groups globally are working on molecular UC currently. Molecular DC has not currently been realised but represents a significant goal in future quantum technologies.
The successful candidate will acquire proficiency in synthetic organic, coordination chemistry, photoluminescence spectroscopy, and single-crystal X-ray crystallography.
The researcher will have full access to a suite of techniques via state-of-the-art facilities including NMR spectroscopy, IR, HPLC and Mass-Spectrometry, in addition to world-leading X-ray diffraction facilities.
The candidate will also participate in group-meetings, school seminars and represent the group at national/international conferences. This will give them the opportunity to disseminate their research results with world-leaders in the area.
The University of Southampton will give professional training and transferable skills through the PGR Development Hub which provides a suite of training courses and support services which promotes well-being and employability.
