Novel Energetic Hybrid Nanomaterials for Photonic and Quantum Applications

Project Summary

The next generation of deep-tech devices will rely on materials that can precisely control the flow of energy at the molecular and quantum level. This PhD project will develop a new class of hybrid energetic nanomaterials, combining inorganic semiconductors with bespoke organic chromophores to unlock tunable interactions between light, charge, and spin. These materials promise to revolutionise applications ranging from highly efficient solar cells and light-emitting devices to photonic circuitry and quantum information platforms.

Background

Recent breakthroughs in optoelectronics have been achieved through the use of quantum dots, perovskites, and 2D materials. However, each of these systems faces stability or efficiency bottlenecks. By incorporating tailored organic ligands onto inorganic nanostructures, we can design “multicomponent energetic materials” that exhibit:

• Enhanced charge transport across interfaces.

• Control over singlet and triplet exciton pathways.

• Stability against environmental degradation.

• Tunable energy levels for photonic or quantum operation.

Our group has already demonstrated efficient singlet and triplet transfer between quantum dots and organic molecules, establishing the foundation for this work.

Research Plan

The student will design and synthesise new hybrid materials, exploring how variations in binding strength, molecular spacing, and electronic coupling determine material performance. Key activities will include:

• Synthesis of novel chromophore-semiconductor ligands.

• Structural and spectroscopic characterisation (PL, EQE, ultrafast spectroscopy).

• Device fabrication and testing in solar cells, LEDs, and/or quantum photonic structures.

• Modelling of excitonic dynamics in hybrid systems.

Outcomes

This project will advance fundamental understanding of hybrid nanomaterials while producing early-stage demonstrators of optoelectronic and quantum devices. Results are expected to lead to high-impact publications, intellectual property, and potential commercial pathways in deep-tech industries.

Location & Supervision

This project will be based at Victoria University of Wellington under the supervision of Dr. Nathaniel Davis, with co-supervision from collaborators in photophysics, materials chemistry, and quantum optics.

Eligibility

The stipend is NZD 35,000 per annum plus fees.

Applicants must meet Victoria University of Wellington entry requirements for admission to a PhD. Award of the scholarship is conditional on the university accepting your enrolment. The successful applicant will be guided through the process of formally applying for admission.  

Applicants with a background in chemistry or physics, will be considered.

This project is based in Christchurch, New Zealand and is available for immediate start.

How to apply

To express your interest in this scholarship and PhD research opportunity, please prepare the following items:

• A brief CV including qualifications, academic achievements, list of publications, work history, and references.

• A copy of your academic transcript(s).

• A cover letter - this may include: a description of why you want to undertake a PhD; how your previous experiences have prepared you for the research project that you are applying for; what your passions are within or outside of academia.

Please submit your application via email to the main supervisor of this project (Nathaniel.davis@vuw.ac.nz) who will guide you through the scholarship application process.

‍