PhD Studentship: Wearable Thermoelectric Generators Using Advanced Materials

PhD Supervisor: Dr Katrina Morgan

Supervisory Team: Dr Katrina Morgan, Dr Ioannis Zeimpekis 

Project description:

Wearable technologies are revolutionising our daily lives, integrating everyday objects into our clothes, accessories and even our bodies. But how can we power these without using rigid batteries that require overnight charging?  

The answer is renewable energy sources such as ourselves. Using our body’s heat, thermoelectric generators can provide uninterrupted renewable energy for wearable devices. 

In our highly multi-disciplinary team, the goal is to develop cutting-edge wearable systems, using thermoelectric generators to power wearable technology such as health monitors and fitness sensors.   

Working in a cleanroom environment, new materials will be developed and optimised, using state-of-the-art fabrication and characterisation equipment, and turned into cutting-edge thermoelectric energy harvesters. Our goal is to implement these generators into commercially usable system that powers internet-of-thing devices, designed with the end-user in mind. This will be achieved through working closely with academic and industrial collaborators.  

This PhD project direction is mouldable, guided by an experienced supervisory team, whilst offering a high level of technical and professional skill development. Chances to collaborate with companies and researchers are plenty, with many opportunities for international travel, attending conferences and publishing high impact work.  

We welcome applicants from a range of fields including but not restricted to physics, engineering, electronics and chemistry. We encourage applicants from diverse backgrounds and underrepresented groups, with the belief that excellence will be achieved through recognising the value of every person. Our vision and mission at the University of Southampton is to have a community where staff and students feel welcome, supported and valued. ECS is committed to fostering a culture of inclusion, respect and equity of opportunity and provides a unique, friendly and supportive environment. The university is Athena SWAN Silver Award recognised, we’re committed to improving equity for women in science and engineering.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Dr Katrina Morgan, Smart Electronic Materials and Systems Research Group, Email: kam2g11@soton.ac.uk  

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent). 

Closing date: 30 December 2024.  Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified. 

Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships. For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of Southampton  Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered. 

How To Apply

You should submit your completed online application form by clicking the ‘Apply’ button above. Select programme type (Research), 2024/25, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD Computer Science (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Dr Katrina Morgan 

Applications should include:

• Research Proposal
• Curriculum Vitae
• Two reference letters
• Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date 

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk

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