Precursor Development for the ALD of Ferroelectric Materials

This project is one of a number that are in competition for funding from the University of Bath URSA competition, for entry in September 2025.

PLEASE BE AWARE: Applications for this project may close earlier than the advertised deadline if a suitable candidate is found. We therefore recommend that you contact the lead supervisor prior to applying and submit your formal application as early as possible.

Overview of the Research:

This project aims to identify precursors for their application in the synthesis and fabrication, by atomic layer deposition (ALD) of novel ferroelectric materials. These materials promise advantages compared to conventional memory technologies, with theoretical energy savings of up to 20%.

Combining ab initio methods and machine learning enables an innovative approach to materials design and provides opportunity to investigate unknown areas on the periodic table. This opens avenues for identifying unique ferroelectric compounds with desirable properties.

However, a key challenge lies in translating the computational predictions into experimental synthesis. Using a range of computational tools that we intended to enhance the process of materials discovery and enhance the design of viable precursors, with the main thrust of the project focusing on the development of new chemistries to realise ferroelectric materials using ALD.

The project is divided into two parts:  a materials production part focusing on the development of precursor development for specific elements, as well as the synthesis, growth of ALD layer coatings, changing thickness and nano-crystal size. Introducing post deposition treatments such as vacuum annealing we hope to control defect densities and improve materials performance. The second part of the project will involve the chemical characterization and aspects of the electrical characterisation of the materials focusing on structure-activity relationships.

We ultimately expect these materials to be deposited using CVD/ALD under conditions in line with those used in current industrial practices. A core aspect of this studentship is to align the design of the precursors with the process and conditions that would ultimately be required for practical use.

Project keywords: Precursor, Synthesis, CVD, ALD, Organometallics

Candidate Requirements:

Applicants should hold, or expect to receive, a First Class or high Upper Second Class UK Honours degree (or the equivalent) in a relevant subject. A master’s level qualification would also be advantageous.

Non-UK applicants must meet the programme’s English language requirement by the application deadline.

External sponsor details :

This project will be co-funded by Matnex, subject to contract.

Our mission at Matnex is to discover new materials that significantly reduce the environmental, economic, and social cost of items critical to our society.

Our ground-breaking AI software transforms the way new materials are discovered and designed. Using rapid automated processes and advanced quantum calculations, we work with partners to reduce global CO₂e emissions and accelerate the discovery of next-gen materials from decades to months.

Enquiries and Applications:

Informal enquiries are encouraged and should be directed to Dr Andrew Johnson: a.ljohnson@bath.ac.uk

Formal applications should be submitted via the University of Bath’s online application form for a PhD in Chemistry prior to the closing date of this advert.

IMPORTANT:

When completing the application form:

1.      In the Funding your studies section, select ‘University of Bath URSA’ as the studentship for which you are applying.

2.      In the Your PhD project section, quote the project title of this project and the name of the lead supervisor in the appropriate boxes. 

Failure to complete these two steps will cause delays in processing your application and may cause you to miss the deadline.

More information about applying for a PhD at Bath may be found on our website.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion:

We value a diverse research environment and aim to be an inclusive university, where difference is celebrated and respected. We welcome and encourage applications from under-represented groups.

If you have circumstances that you feel we should be aware of that have affected your educational attainment, then please feel free to tell us about it in your application form. The best way to do this is a short paragraph at the end of your personal statement