Research Supervisor Connect

Faraday Rotation in Organic Semiconductors

Summary

Society's over-reliance on information exchange around the world hinges critically on ultrafast data communication using light signals.  Modern optical data communication works at high bit rates and therefore polarisation switches have to be very fast (<1ns).  Understanding dynamics of polarisation decay and dispersive transport of excitons as a function of device morphology is critical in underpinning material parameters required developing ultrafast polarisation switches.  This project will use a range of complementary experimental approaches to study polarisation switching and Faraday rotation in an emerging class of organic semiconductors.

Supervisor

Dr Girish Lakhwani.

Research location

School of Chemistry

Program type

Masters/PHD

Synopsis

This research project intersects physical chemistry, material science and chemical physics.  Students will investigate optical properties of π‐conjugated materials using polarised light spectroscopy such as Circular Dichroism, Optical Polarimetry, and Cicularly Polarised Luminescence.  A more challenging part of the project will be to develop cutting-edge methodologies to allow for investigation of time-resolved excited state properties sensitive to polarised light.

Additional information

The project is particularly of interest to students who are inclined towards physical chemistry or chemical physics with focus on optical spectroscopy leading into the field of laser spectroscopy.  Prospective students should have a strong command in physical chemistry with an equivalent minimum cumulative GPA of 3 (out of 4) or CPI of 9 (out of 10) or a First Class Honours degree in their undergraduate programmes.

For more information on our research and other opportunities, please visit our website:
https://sydney.edu.au/science/our-research/research-areas/chemistry/molecular-photophysics-group.html

HDR Inherent Requirements

In addition to the academic requirements set out in the Science Postgraduate Handbook, you may be required to satisfy a number of inherent requirements to complete this degree. Example of inherent requirement may include:

- Confidential disclosure and registration of a disability that may hinder your performance in your degree;
- Confidential disclosure of a pre-existing or current medical condition that may hinder your performance in your degree (e.g. heart disease, pace-maker, significant immune suppression, diabetes, vertigo, etc.);
- Ability to perform independently and/or with minimal supervision;
- Ability to undertake certain physical tasks (e.g. heavy lifting);
- Ability to undertake observatory, sensory and communication tasks;
- Ability to spend time at remote sites (e.g. One Tree Island, Narrabri and Camden);
- Ability to work in confined spaces or at heights;
- Ability to operate heavy machinery (e.g. farming equipment);
- Hold or acquire an Australian driver’s licence;
- Hold a current scuba diving license;
- Hold a current Working with Children Check;
- Meet initial and ongoing immunisation requirements (e.g. Q-Fever, Vaccinia virus, Hepatitis, etc.)

You must consult with your nominated supervisor regarding any identified inherent requirements before completing your application.

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Opportunity ID

The opportunity ID for this research opportunity is 2442

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