Andrew Hector

University of Southampton is recruiting a funded PhD student for a project on chemical and electrochemical deposition of 2D nanomaterial films , with a strong focus on boron nitride (often called “white graphene”) and its use as an insulating platform for growing 2D semiconductor films. The project sits across the Schools of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and Electronics and Computer Science , and is part of a larger multidisciplinary effort on 2D semiconductors and related technologies. Research themes include materials synthesis , thin film deposition , electrochemistry , structural/compositional/functional characterisation , and applications in memristors and neuromorphic computing . You will start with chemical vapour deposition and also pioneer electrochemical growth methods for boron nitride on flat conductors or insulators. The project then extends to growing 2D semiconductors over boron nitride and evaluating how the insulating layer affects semiconductor properties. Training is provided in relevant lab techniques, including handling air-sensitive precursors and advanced characterisation methods. Potential supervisors include Professor Andrew Hector (lead supervisor), Dr Ruomeng Huang , and Dr Shibin Thomas . The project is aligned with the EPSRC EXPRESS programme grant and offers the chance to work in a multidisciplinary team in Southampton and Warwick. Funding: fully funded for UK and Horizon Europe countries students. Tuition fees are covered and an annual stipend is provided for up to 3.5 years . Eligibility: applicants should hold a UK 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent in chemistry or a closely related discipline. An English language qualification is required if applicable. Deadline: 30 June 2026. How to apply: submit an online application for the Research programme (2026/27), Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, select full time or part time, search for PhD Chemistry (7189) , and add the supervisor name in section 2. Prepare a CV, two academic references, transcripts/certificates, and English language evidence if needed.

This PhD project at the University of Southampton focuses on the chemical and electrochemical deposition of two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterial films, specifically targeting boron nitride, a material often referred to as "white graphene" due to its structural similarity to graphene but with insulating properties. The research is part of a large multidisciplinary initiative examining 2D semiconductors and the technologies required for their implementation, with applications in memristors and neuromorphic computing. Supervised by Professor Andrew Hector, Dr Ruomeng Huang, and Dr Shibin Thomas, the project aims to develop innovative methods for growing hexagonal boron nitride on flat conductors or insulators, starting with chemical vapour deposition and pioneering new electrochemical growth techniques. Subsequent work will involve growing 2D semiconductors over the boron nitride using electrochemical methods to assess their impact on semiconductor properties. Students will gain hands-on experience in handling air-sensitive precursors, materials deposition, and a range of structural, compositional, and functional characterisation techniques. Full training is provided, and participants will benefit from Southampton's world-leading electrochemistry programme, including MSc and summer school opportunities. Research activities will be conducted across the Schools of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and Electronics and Computer Science. This project is aligned with the EPSRC EXPRESS programme grant (Exploiting Single Source Precursors for the Electrochemical Growth of Functional 1D and 2D Metal Dichalcogenide Semiconductors), offering opportunities to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams at Southampton and Warwick. The research spans precursor synthesis, electrochemical deposition, materials and electrochemical characterisation, and exemplar device fabrication. Funding is available for UK and Horizon Europe students, covering tuition fees and providing an annual stipend for up to 3.5 years. The Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences (FEPS) and the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) support this project. Applicants must hold a UK 2:1 honours degree or its international equivalent in chemistry or a closely related discipline. Applications should include a CV, two academic references, degree transcripts and certificates, and proof of English language proficiency if required. The University of Southampton is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusivity, as demonstrated by its Athena SWAN award. Flexible working patterns and career breaks are fully considered, and the university offers generous maternity policies, onsite childcare, and a range of benefits to support well-being and work-life balance. Sustainability is a core value, with the institution holding the Platinum EcoAward. To apply, search for PhD Chemistry (7189) under the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, select the Research programme type for 2026/27, and include the supervisor's name in section 2 of the application. For further information or an initial conversation, contact Professor Andrew Hector at [email protected].