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University of Southampton

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PhD in Mechanically Interlocked Chiroptic Photoswitches for Optical Technologies University of Southampton in United Kingdom

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Chemistry

Funding

Competition funded PhD project.

Deadline

Dec 18, 2026

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Country

United Kingdom

University

University of Southampton

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Keywords

Chemistry
Materials Science
Organic Chemistry
Photophysics
Supramolecular Chemistry
Optical Materials
Physics

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About this position

PhD opportunity at the University of Southampton in Mechanically Interlocked Chiroptic Photoswitches towards Next Generation Optical Technologies.

This competition-funded doctoral project sits in the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences and is centred on chemistry, especially organic synthesis, supramolecular chemistry, photophysical analysis, and self-assembly. The research aims to develop new mechanically interlocked photoswitches that can remotely control chiroptical properties such as circular dichroism and circularly polarised luminescence using light.

The project is designed around fundamental molecular design with clear applications in optical computing, advanced sensing, communications, and broader defence and security challenges. The successful candidate will synthesise a series of mechanically interlocked photoswitches, study their optical/photophysical behaviour using spectroscopy, and explore how non-covalent interactions can be used to drive chiral conformations and switchable chiroptic responses.

Training will be provided in complex organic synthesis and analysis, photophysical characterisation, and supramolecular binding studies. Applicants are welcome from candidates with a Chemistry degree and an interest in applying chemistry to real-world defence and security challenges. Prior experience in organic synthesis is preferred, but the project is open to students who are keen to learn and develop specialist skills.

Degree level: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Entry requirement: 2:1 honours degree. Deadline: 18 December 2026.

Prospective applicants should review the project page, read the full entry requirements and fees/funding details, and apply through the University of Southampton research degree application route.

Funding details

Competition funded PhD project.

What's required

Applicants should have a 2:1 honours degree, ideally in Chemistry. Interest in applying chemistry to real-world defence and security challenges is welcomed. Familiarity with or experience in organic synthesis is preferred, but specialist experience across all areas of the project is not required. Applicants should be willing to develop new skills and work with partners and collaborators.

How to apply

Review the project details on the University of Southampton project page and use the application process linked under How to apply. Check the full entry requirements and funding information before submitting your PhD application.

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