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Location
Anywhere
Date Posted
5 Sep 2024

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Type
PhD Project
ARC Centre of Excellence for Electromaterials Science at the University of Wollongong

Conducting Polymers for Bioelectronics

Anywhere
5 Sep 2024

NOTE: this position listing has expired and may no longer be relevant!

Position Description


Bioelectronics, the seamless integration of electronic devices with living systems, is considered the future of medicine as it is not only contributing to the basic understanding of biological systems but also to clinical diagnostics and therapeutics through tissue-electronics interfaces. A major challenge facing successful medical applications of bioelectronics is the development of compatible and functional interface technologies that enable biological to electronic signal transduction.

The aim of this PhD synthesis project is to develop novel biocompatible conjugated polymers with long operational stability in physiological conditions and enhanced electronic performance that, when integrated into bioelectronic devices, will form the basis for new implant technology with enhanced longevity and adaptability of form and function.

The project will be undertaken at the University of Wollongong (UOW) (Wollongong, Australia) and will contribute to a 2019-2021 Australian Research Council Discovery Project entitled “Bioelectronics: addressing the biointerface challenge” based at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) (Sydney, Australia). A 3 year full time scholarship of A$27,596 per annum will be awarded to the successful applicant.

The PhD candidate, guided by Professor David Officer (UOW) and Dr Damia Mawad (UNSW), will design and synthesise a series of side- and end-functionalised polyethylenedioxythiophene (PEDOT)-based conjugated polymers and characterise their chemical and physico-chemical properties using UV-Vis, IR, and NMR spectroscopies, mass spectrometry (MS), gel permeation chromatography (GPC) and elemental analysis. The candidate will supply materials to and work with other Discovery project members at UNSW.

The selection criteria for this PhD position and related scholarship are:
1. First or upper Second Class Honours degree or Master’s degree (or equivalent) in synthetic organic chemistry or related field.
2. Experience in the synthesis and characterisation of aromatic monomers and polymers would be advantageous.
3. Good understanding and previous hands-on experience of spectroscopic techniques such as UV-Vis, NMR and IR spectroscopies and mass spectrometry. Electrochemistry experience would be advantageous.
4. Excellent communication (English) and interpersonal skills.
5. Ability to work as part of a team but also independently.
6. Enthusiasm and a desire to learn across disciplines.


How to Apply

For more information and to apply for this opportunity, please contact Professor David Officer, ARC Centre of Excellence for Electromaterials Science and Intelligent Polymer Research Institute, University of Wollongong, Australia at davido@uow.edu.au To apply, please email the following documents as PDF attachments: • Cover letter (1 A4 page maximum) • Curriculum Vitae (2 A4 pages maximum) and list of publications • Copy of academic transcripts (university level qualifications) • For international applicants, IELTS test results