PhD Studentship – Computational Discovery of Oxide Scintillators for High‑Performance X‑ray Detectors
University of Birmingham – School of Chemistry
Birmingham, United Kingdom
General Description
The School of Chemistry at the University of Birmingham invites applications for a fully funded PhD studentship focused on the computational discovery and design of oxide scintillator materials tailored for high‑performance X‑ray detection. This research sits at the intersection of computational chemistry and materials science and addresses the need for advanced scintillator materials with enhanced X‑ray absorption, fast emission response, and long‑term operational stability for applications spanning medical diagnostics, synchrotron science, and security imaging. The successful candidate will work on understanding structure‑property relationships in existing oxide scintillators using state‑of‑the‑art computational techniques and will be supported to explore and propose novel candidate materials with performance metrics that could surpass current standards. This studentship forms part of an industrially supported research initiative conducted in collaboration with AWE, providing a real‑world context to the computational study.
Situated within a vibrant, well‑resourced research group in the School of Chemistry, the project offers access to new, state‑of‑the‑art laboratory facilities and a collaborative academic environment. Training will be provided in advanced computational methods, and the candidate will be integrated into a multidisciplinary team exploring the theoretical foundations of material behaviour relevant to next‑generation X‑ray detector technologies.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should hold, or expect to achieve, at least a second‑class upper (2:1) Honours degree, or equivalent qualification, in Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science, or a closely related discipline. Candidates must demonstrate strong analytical thinking, motivation for research, and an ability to work collaboratively in an interdisciplinary research setting. Previous research experience is desirable but not essential; full training will be provided within the research group environment.
Required Expertise/Skills
Strong academic foundation in a relevant science or engineering discipline (Chemistry, Physics, Materials Science).
Analytical and creative problem‑solving skills with an interest in computational modelling.
Good computer literacy, including a willingness to engage with computational chemistry tools and numerical simulations.
Effective communication skills in English, with the ability to present research findings and contribute to scientific discourse.
Salary Details
The studentship is fully funded for a period of four years and includes a tax‑free annual stipend (typically set at UKRI standard rates), with tuition fees paid at the UK home rate.
Application Deadline
Applications will be accepted until the position is filled; candidates are encouraged to apply by 31 May 2026.