Electron and energy transfer in two-dimensional covalent organic frameworks

A three year PhD studentship is available at the Department of Chemistry, UCL, to study electron and energy transfer in porphyrin-based two-dimensional covalent organic frameworks (2D-COFs). The studentship will commence in September 2016, and will cover stipend and fees.

Two-dimensional covalent organic frameworks (2D-COFs) are ordered materials where individual planar molecules are linked through covalent bonds, thereby generating a stable two-dimensional molecular network. A key aspect of these COFs is that if the individual molecules are conjugated systems – such as porphyrins – then it is possible that the entire network will also be conjugated, allowing facile transfer of charge carriers and/or energy across the framework. This could provide potential applications in a number of fields, including molecular electronics.

The project will involve fabricating the COFs and assessing the success of the fabrication process using scanning tunnelling microscopy (STM). Electron and energy transfer processes will then be measured using spectroscopic techniques, primarily transient absorption spectroscopy, in order to ascertain and optimise their suitability for molecular electronic applications.

The candidate must be a UK or EU citizen, and have experience in spectroscopy and/or morphology characterisation techniques. He/she must have – or expect to obtain by September 2016 – a first class or upper second class honours degree in chemistry, physics, or a closely-related discipline.

For more information, please contact Tracey Clarke (tracey.clarke@ucl.ac.uk) or Matthew Blunt (m.blunt@ucl.ac.uk). To apply, please send your CV and a one page research statement to Dr Clarke by Friday 17^th June.