About this position
Applications are invited for a fully funded 4-year PhD position in the School of Physics at University College Dublin (UCD), within the Computational Materials Research group led by Asst. Prof. Nuala Caffrey.
The position is funded through the Research Ireland Frontiers for the Future project Quantum Lego .
The project explores how atomically thin two-dimensional (2D) materials can be stacked like LEGO blocks into heterostructures with tailored electronic, magnetic, and structural properties. By integrating first-principles electronic structure calculations, atomistic modelling, high-performance computing, and machine-learning-assisted materials modelling, the project aims to design dynamically tunable quantum materials.
PhD project focus: Electrically tunable 2D-MOF interfaces
The PhD project will focus specifically on how a switchable ferroelectric polarization can be used to control and tune the morphology of 2D metal–organic frameworks (2D-MOFs) at 2D interfaces. Using a functional 2D ferroelectric substrate, the student will investigate how ferroelectric polarization and its associated surface charges influence molecule–surface anchoring, with the goal of achieving dynamic, bistable switching of 2D-MOF network structure. Because this switching directly modulates the local electronic and spin environment at the interface, it offers a route to voltage-controlled quantum functionality with applications in future electronic and spintronic technologies.
The successful candidate will join the collaborative Quantum and Condensed Matter Theory research environment within the UCD School of Physics and the UCD Center for Quantum Engineering, Science, and Technology C-QuEST .
Applicants must:
- Qualify for EU fee status under UCD regulations (see UCD EU Fee Assessment )
- Hold a 4-year Bachelor’s degree, or a 3-year Bachelor’s degree plus Master’s degree, in Physics or a related discipline
- Meet the university’s English language requirements (see UCD English Language Requirements )
Experience with scientific programming (e.g. Python, C, or similar) is essential. Previous experience with electronic structure theory, atomistic simulation, machine learning, or high-performance computing is desirable, but not required.
Stipend: €25,000 per year (net); fees covered for students qualifying for EU fee status
Research Budget: Travel support (€1,500/year) and equipment budget (€5,000 total)
Application Procedure:
Applications should be submitted as a single PDF file to nuala.caffrey@ucd.ie and should include:
- Academic CV
- One-page statement describing research interests and motivation
- Contact details for two academic referees
Application Deadline: Applications reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
Successful candidates expected to begin in January 2027 .
Informal Enquiries are welcome and should be directed to nuala.caffrey@ucd.ie
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