University of Leeds
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PhD in Development of Cd-Free Quantum Dot Biosensors University of Leeds in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Chemistry
Funding
This is a non-funded PhD project. Applicants are expected to be self-funded or secure external funding. Costs associated with arrival at Leeds, including visa, Immigration Health Surcharge, and flights, must be covered by the applicant or another funding source.
Deadline
Apr 30, 2027
Country
United Kingdom
University
University of Leeds

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About this position
PhD opportunity at the University of Leeds in the School of Physics and Astronomy on Development of Cd-Free Quantum Dot Biosensors.
This experimental project sits in Molecular and Nanoscale Physics and focuses on the synthesis of cadmium-free quantum dots, nanoparticle surface functionalisation, and the development and testing of fluorescent biosensors. You will work on incorporating quantum dots into hydrogels and polymer film matrices to improve sensing performance, with hands-on training in laboratory methods, data analysis, and problem solving.
The project includes access to advanced facilities such as high-resolution electron microscopes, spectrometers, and specialised synthesis equipment. It also mentions an international collaboration with Tokyo Institute of Technology, offering opportunities for cross-institutional research and knowledge exchange.
Funding: This is a non-funded PhD. Applicants should be self-funded or secure external sponsorship. Arrival-related costs such as visa, Immigration Health Surcharge, and flights are not covered.
Eligibility: Applicants should normally have at least a first-class or upper second-class UK Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in physics, chemistry, or a related discipline. Prior experience in nanomaterials or biosensors is helpful but not required. International applicants must meet the University’s English language requirement, normally IELTS 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component or equivalent.
Deadline: Friday 30 April 2027. Applications are considered on an ongoing basis and may close early if a suitable candidate is found.
How to apply: Submit a formal research degree application via the University of Leeds website. Choose the 2027/28 academic year, select PhD Physics & Astronomy Full Time, and clearly state the project title and Dr Kevin Critchley as proposed supervisor. Upload transcripts, a personal statement, and your CV.
Funding details
This is a non-funded PhD project. Applicants are expected to be self-funded or secure external funding. Costs associated with arrival at Leeds, including visa, Immigration Health Surcharge, and flights, must be covered by the applicant or another funding source.
What's required
Applicants should normally hold at least a first class or upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. A Masters degree may be required for some research degrees, so applicants should check with the School. Strong background in physics, chemistry, or a related discipline is expected; prior experience in nanomaterials or biosensors is advantageous but not essential. If English is not the applicant's first language, evidence of meeting the University's minimum English language requirement is required, normally IELTS 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component or equivalent.
How to apply
Apply through the University of Leeds research degree application portal. Select Research Degrees, Research Postgraduate, choose PhD Physics & Astronomy Full Time, and use 1 October 2027 as the proposed start date. State the project title and Dr Kevin Critchley as proposed supervisor, and upload transcripts, personal statement, and CV.
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