Towards Ultra-Sensitive Ion Detection: Molecular Electronic Devices as Metal Cation Sensors

This project provides an annual stipend of £19,237. 

Project advert

A fully funded 3-year PhD studentship for research at the interface between chemistry and nanotechnology at the Manchester Metropolitan University is available. The project will use a novel approach to develop ultra-sensitive sensors by combining supramolecular chemistry and single-molecule electronics.

These sensors will be based on host-guest interactions, which is when a suitable molecule (the host) can bind to a specific guest molecule. The host molecule will be designed to have a high conductance, and the guest molecule will be a metal cation. When the guest molecule binds to the host molecule, the conductance of the host molecule will change. This change in conductance can be used to detect the presence of the different guests.

In this project, you will design, synthesise, and test host molecules that will preferentially bind to different cationic species. You will also measure their charge transport properties at the single-molecule level, and develop analytical methodologies aimed at their quantification.

Project aims and objectives

The main aim of this project is to develop a new sensing platform based on single-molecule electronics, aimed at the quantification of metal cations. The project will target three research objectives:

1. Synthesise a library of host-guest complexes.
2. Measure the charge transport properties of these complexes under different conditions.
3. Develop a methodology for the quantification of metal cations based on their charge transport properties.

Specific requirements of the candidate

This represents an opportunity to join the Faculty of Science and Engineering’s growing doctoral research community, committed to excellent research with impact. Successful applicants will be active researchers in our new state-of-the-art £117M labs and Dalton Building facilities, and will be supported to develop their skills as independent researchers.

Applicants should have a first or upper second-class degree (or international equivalent) in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, or related subjects. A relevant master’s degree and/or equivalent practical experience will be an advantage. Experience in synthetic chemistry and characterisation techniques such as NMR, UV-Vis and Electrochemistry is desired. Applications are welcome and encouraged from candidates from underrepresented groups.

How to apply

Interested applicants can contact Dr Alvaro Etcheverry-Berrios ([email protected]) for an informal discussion.

To apply you will need to complete the online application form for a full-time PhD in Chemistry (or download the PGR application form).

You should also complete the (PGR thesis proposal and a Narrative CV) form addressing the project’s aims and objectives, demonstrating how the skills you have maps to the area of research and why you see this area as being of importance and interest.

If applying online, you will need to upload your statement in the supporting documents section, or email the application form and statement to [email protected].

Closing date: 14 October 2024. Expected start date: January 2025 for Home students and April 2025 for International students. 

Please note that Home fees are covered. Eligible International students will need to make up the difference in tuition fee funding. 

Please quote the reference: SciEng-2024-Ion-Detection