PhD in Computational Nanomaterials and Nanocrystal Growth at University of Exeter University of Exeter in United Kingdom

University of Exeter is inviting applications for 2 PhD studentships in Computational Nanomaterials under the ERC Starting Grant kineticSHAPES: Kinetic Pathways to Control Nanocrystal Shapes.

The project focuses on the non-equilibrium growth of nanocrystals and how crystal lattice effects and solution concentration fields influence morphological features such as twinning, branching, and chirality. The research is strongly computational and will involve developing and using a kinetic Monte Carlo simulation framework in C++, with additional methods such as Python post-processing, molecular dynamics, density functional theory, and lattice Boltzmann simulations. Results will be validated through collaboration with experimentalists.

The studentship is based in the Department of Engineering, Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy, at the Streatham Campus in Exeter. Supervisors listed are Dr Carlos Lange Bassani and Prof. Ana Neves.

Funding for eligible students includes Home/International tuition fees plus an annual tax-free stipend of at least £21,805 for 4 years full-time (or pro rata for part-time study).

Applicants should have, or be about to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class UK Honours degree or equivalent in Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, or a related area. An interest in mathematics and physical sciences is essential; programming experience in C/C++ and Python is desirable. Non-native English speakers must meet the university's English language requirements.

The application deadline is 31 July 2026. Interviews will be held virtually in August 2026. To apply, use the university's application portal, upload the required documents, and quote reference 5896. Project-specific questions can be sent to [email protected]; general application queries go to [email protected].