Andrew Cairns

Imperial College London’s Department of Materials is offering two fully funded PhD positions for the 2026-27 intake, focusing on cutting-edge research in functional materials, thin films, and two-dimensional (2D) materials. The projects are supervised by leading academics: Associate Professor Shelly Conroy, Assistant Professor Andrew Cairns, and Professor Cecilia Mattevi. Both projects provide opportunities to work with advanced in-situ characterisation techniques and national research facilities, including Diamond Light Source and the Ernst Ruska-Centre for Microscopy and Spectroscopy with Electrons at Forschungszentrum Jülich. PhD Project 1: Strain in Motion – Engineering Phase Transformation in Flexible Materials Supervisors: Andrew Cairns & Shelly Conroy This project investigates how mechanical strain drives phase transformations in flexible materials such as metal–organic frameworks and thin film systems. The research will use in-situ electron and X-ray diffraction to study structural evolution during controlled deformation, with machine learning applied to high-dimensional datasets to identify strain-induced phase behaviour. The student will have the opportunity for extended research periods at major facilities, supported by Dr Conroy’s ERC Consolidator Grant (DISCO). PhD Project 2: Long-Range Magnetic Order in Emerging 2D Materials Supervisors: Cecilia Mattevi & Shelly Conroy This project explores magnetic order in atomically thin materials and the engineering of their properties for future device applications. The work involves materials synthesis, magnetic and structural characterisation, and device fabrication, using advanced microscopy and diffraction techniques to study structure–property relationships. The project aims to demonstrate new functionalities for miniaturised magnetic memories and neuromorphic computing. Funding and Eligibility: These positions are fully funded for up to 3.5 years, covering tuition fees (home and limited overseas), a competitive stipend (£22,780 per annum in 2025/26), and a consumables fund. Applicants must have a strong background in materials science, physics, chemistry, or a related field, and hold or expect to achieve a Master’s degree in addition to a Bachelor’s degree with at least a UK Upper Second Class Honours. Outstanding academic performance is essential. International students may apply, but fewer funded positions are available for them. Candidates must contact a supervisor and secure their agreement before applying. Application Process: Contact a supervisor to discuss your interest and secure their support. Prepare a 2-page personal statement and research proposal. Apply online via the Imperial College London application system for the Department of Materials, indicating your interest in the Departmental scholarship. The deadline for applications is December 28, 2025. Research Environment: The projects are embedded in world-class research groups at Imperial College London, with access to state-of-the-art facilities and collaborations with national and international research centres. The research areas include functional materials, thin films, 2D materials, phase transformation, magnetism, advanced microscopy, and machine learning for materials characterisation.