27 Fully-Funded PhD Opportunities at MacDiarmid Institute in New Zealand

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The MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology, New Zealand’s premier research organization in materials science and nanotechnology, offers fully funded PhD scholarships for talented students. These opportunities provide a vibrant, collaborative environment, access to cutting-edge research, and a chance to contribute to sustainable technologies.

Successful candidates will join the MacDiarmid Institute, engage in innovative projects, and benefit from extensive professional development opportunities. You can check more PhD opportunities here.

Why Choose the MacDiarmid Institute?

As a PhD student at the MacDiarmid Institute, you’ll work alongside world-class researchers in materials science and nanotechnology. Benefits include:

Collaborative Environment: Work with leading scientists and institutions across New Zealand.
Professional Development: Participate in industry internships (3-6 months), workshops on communication, commercialization, and leadership, and multi-day bootcamps in stunning locations.
Networking Opportunities: Join the MacDiarmid Emerging Scientists Association (MESA) for student-led events and activities.
Outreach Programs: Engage with schools and communities to inspire the next generation.
Financial Support: Scholarships worth NZD$38,500 per annum (tax-free) plus full coverage of student fees.

Graduates from the MacDiarmid Institute have gone on to impactful careers worldwide, making significant contributions in diverse fields.

For more information regarding these projects, visit the official website.

All Available Positions (Please click on specific project to view details)

Assembly Dynamics of Advanced Colloids

This PhD project at the University of Gothenburg focuses on studying how colloidal particles form 3D structures using microfluidics. The goal is to understand and control these assemblies for applications like catalysis and photonic crystals, contributing to sustainable materials development.

Requirements

Strong Honours or Master’s degree in physics, chemistry, engineering, or a related field.
Experience in experimental physical chemistry, microfabrication, fluid dynamics, or optics/image analysis is a plus.

How to Apply

Send your CV, academic record, and contact details of two referees to Professor Geoff Willmott at [email protected].
Use the subject line: “PhD project: Assembly dynamics of advanced colloids.”
More details available via the provided link.

Stimuli-Responsive Multi-Compartment Hydrogel Capsules

This collaborative PhD project explores advanced techniques like microfluidics to create hydrogel capsules that respond to stimuli such as light or pH. These capsules will carry reactants and enzymes, building on ongoing research for environmentally friendly materials.

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Requirements

Background in materials chemistry or organic chemistry.
Interest in advanced material and nanomaterial fabrication.

How to Apply

Email your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Professor Jadranka Travas-Sejdic at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: Stimuli-responsive multi-compartment hydrogel capsules.”

Exploring Electromechanical Coupling in Functionalised Biological Materials

This PhD project investigates how biological materials, like amyloid proteins, can generate energy through electromechanical coupling. It involves optimizing structures for piezoelectricity, functionalizing materials with nanoparticles, and using computational modeling for sustainable energy applications.

Requirements

Degree in materials, chemistry, or biophysics.
Experience with biological or soft materials and an interest in experimental and computational research.
Ability to work in an interdisciplinary team.

How to Apply

Submit your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Associate Professor Jenny Malmström at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: Exploring electromechanical coupling in functionalised biological materials.”

Pickering Emulsion-Based Strategies for Compartmentalisation of Polymer Coacervates

This PhD project at Massey University’s Palmerston North campus explores how nanoparticle-stabilized emulsions (Pickering emulsions) can encapsulate polymer coacervates to mimic cell-like compartments. The research will use microscopy, scattering techniques, and liquid flow measurements to study compartment structures and control reactions inside them, aiming for breakthroughs in artificial cell-like materials.

Requirements

BSc Honours or MSc degree in chemistry, materials science, or a related field.
Knowledge or experience in colloidal and surface chemistry is an advantage.
Highly motivated with a strong academic record and teamwork skills.

How to Apply

Send your CV, academic record, and contact details of two referees to Associate Professor Catherine Whitby at [email protected].
Use the subject line: “PhD project: Pickering emulsion-based strategies for compartmentalisation of polymer coacervates.”

Peptide-Based Piezoelectric Materials for Electrically Stimulated Antibacterial Applications

This PhD project at the University of Auckland develops peptide-based materials with strong piezoelectric and antibacterial properties for applications in nanoreactors, electronics, drug delivery, and sensors. The research aims to create biocompatible, biodegradable materials with enhanced piezoelectric performance to improve antibacterial effects.

Requirements

BSc Honours or MSc degree in chemistry.
Prior knowledge of peptide synthesis and analysis.

How to Apply

Email your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Professor Viji Sarojini at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: Peptide-based piezoelectric materials for electrically stimulated antibacterial applications.”

Multiscale Magnetic Materials for Light-Based Technologies

This PhD project at the University of Auckland focuses on creating energy-efficient magnetic nanoarrays for spintronics or magnonics, building on prior discoveries of unique magnetic interactions. The research combines soft materials with magnetic particles to develop materials with novel opto-magnetic properties for light-based technologies.

Requirements

Background in materials engineering, chemistry, or physics.
Familiarity with magnetic materials or computational modeling is a plus.
Eagerness to learn new skills.

How to Apply

Submit your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Associate Professor Jenny Malmström at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: Multiscale magnetic materials for light-based technologies.”

Tiny Droplets with Big Potential: Designing Stimuli-Responsive Liquid Micro-Structures for Sustainable Chemistry and Future Technologies

This PhD project at Victoria University of Wellington explores Pickering emulsions stabilized by ionic liquids (ILs) for applications in responsive materials and cryopreservation. Using advanced lab and computational techniques, the research will investigate the physical and molecular properties of these emulsions to advance sustainable chemistry and technology.

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Requirements

BSc Honours or MSc degree in chemistry, materials science, chemical engineering, or a related field.
Strong background in physical chemistry and good calculus skills; no prior computational chemistry experience required.
Highly motivated with a strong academic record and teamwork skills.
Must be able to start before December 2025 due to funding constraints.

How to Apply

Send a CV-package to Professor Patricia Hunt at [email protected] with the subject line: “PhD project: IL-Pickering emulsions.”
Follow CV-package instructions at Hunt Research Group – current openings.

Optical Spectroscopy of Stimuli-Responsive Microdroplets

This PhD project at Victoria University of Wellington uses a new optical spectroscopy platform to study how microdroplets respond to stimuli like mechanical strain, radiation, pH, temperature, or magnetic fields. Part of the MacDiarmid Institute’s Reconfigurable Systems programme, it aims to link nano- and micro-scale structural changes to the performance of smart, sustainable materials.

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Requirements

Strong qualifications in physics or a related field.
Experience in experimental physics/chemistry, microfluidics, or optics/spectroscopy is beneficial.
Self-motivated with good communication skills and a passion for interdisciplinary teamwork.

How to Apply

Email your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Dr. Baptiste Auguié at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: Optical spectroscopy of stimuli-responsive microdroplets.”

Altermagnetism in Low Dimensional D-Wave Superconductors and Chalcogenides

This PhD project at Victoria University of Wellington investigates altermagnetism, a new type of magnetism, in d-wave superconductors (e.g., La2CuO4) and chalcogenides (e.g., MnTe). The research involves growing thin films, strain engineering, and advanced measurements like magnetization and magneto-transport to develop energy-efficient devices for spintronics.

Requirements

Knowledge and skills in thin film deposition (e.g., magnetron sputtering or PLD).
Strong background in magnetism and/or superconductivity.

How to Apply

Send your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Dr. Shen Chong at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: Altermagnetism in low dimensional d-wave superconductors and chalcogenides.”

Molecular Functionalisation of Self-Assembled Neuromorphic Devices

This PhD project at the University of Canterbury aims to enhance self-assembled neuromorphic devices by adding specific molecules to enable brain-like computing. The research involves lab work (nanofabrication, chemistry, electrical measurements, computational algorithms) and possibly numerical modeling to add memory capabilities and improve device performance.

Requirements

Good Honours or Master’s degree in physics, electrical engineering, computer science, or a related field.
Enthusiasm and a desire to work in a collaborative, multi-disciplinary environment.

How to Apply

Send your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Professor Simon Brown at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: Molecular functionalisation of self-assembled neuromorphic devices.”

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Brain-Like Computing with Ultrasound

This PhD project at the University of Auckland develops a next-generation system for brain-like computing using ultrasonic waves, aiming to reduce energy and computational costs. The research includes optimizing system properties, benchmarking tasks, measuring energy use, and applying the system to real-world problems.

Requirements

Background in physics and/or engineering, preferably with coursework in wave physics.
Programming experience (MATLAB and Python preferred) and hands-on laboratory skills.

How to Apply

Email your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Dr. Jami Shepherd at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: Brain-like computing with ultrasound.”

Ferroelectric and Multiferroic Nitride Thin Films for Future Computing

This PhD project at the University of Canterbury explores nitride perovskite thin films for next-generation computing, focusing on their piezoelectric and ferromagnetic properties. The research aims to develop energy-efficient materials for nanoelectronics, sensors, and actuators by integrating nitride perovskites with rare-earth nitrides.

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Requirements

Strong background in physics, materials science, or a related field.
Experience with thin-film deposition, x-ray diffraction, crystallography, scanning probe microscopy, or electronic transport measurements is desirable.
Interest in quantum materials and device physics.

How to Apply

Send your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Dr. Daniel Sando at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: Ferroelectric and multiferroic nitride thin films for future computing.”

Spin-Compensated Heusler Alloy Ferrimagnets

This PhD project at Victoria University of Wellington investigates thin films of magnetically-compensated Heusler ferrimagnets, which have no fringing magnetic field, making them ideal for scalable, low-power magnetic memory devices. The research involves growing thin films using magnetron sputtering, characterizing their properties, and creating switchable device structures using clean room lithography.

Requirements

Background in condensed matter physics or materials science.
Lab experience in growing or measuring thin films or thin film devices.
Interest in magnetism and magnetic devices.

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How to Apply

Send your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Dr. Simon Granville at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: Spin-compensated Heusler alloy ferrimagnets.”

Magnetic Josephson Junctions Incorporating Rare Earth Nitrides

This PhD project at Victoria University of Wellington explores the combination of superconductivity and magnetism to create magnetic triplet superconducting pairs for next-generation quantum computing. The research involves growing multi-layered stacks of niobium and rare earth nitrides, processing them into Josephson junctions, and characterizing them at cryogenic temperatures to detect spin-triplet superconductivity.

Requirements

Strong background in condensed matter physics.
Interest in novel electronic devices.
Aptitude for experimental work and interpreting data; experience with thin film growth or cryogenic measurements is not required.

How to Apply

Email your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Professor Ben Ruck at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: Magnetic Josephson junctions incorporating rare earth nitrides.”

Quantum Simulations of Unconventional Superconductors

This PhD project at Victoria University of Wellington uses quantum computers to study odd-frequency superconductivity, a theoretical phenomenon in unconventional superconductors. The research involves implementing microscopic models on quantum hardware, using a particle-conserving formalism, and developing algorithms with error mitigation to analyze superconducting properties.

Requirements

Degree in physics with a strong foundation in quantum mechanics.
Solid programming skills, preferably in Python.

How to Apply

Send your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Professor Michele Governale at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: Quantum simulations of unconventional superconductors.”

From Ab Initio Characterisation to Simulation of Molecular ‘Synapses’ for Neuromorphic Computing

This PhD project at the University of Auckland investigates molecular ‘synapses’ in neuromorphic computing systems to understand their memory-enhancing behavior. The research combines first-principles electronic structure calculations (e.g., DFT for molecular properties) with multiscale simulations to study memristive behavior in individual molecules.

Requirements

Experience in DFT calculations.
Enthusiasm for collaborative work with experimental teams.
Knowledge of molecular electronics or excited state calculations is a plus.

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How to Apply

Send your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Professor Nicola Gaston at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: From ab initio characterisation to simulation of molecular ‘synapses’ for neuromorphic computing.”

Modelling Approaches for Percolating Nanoparticle/Nanotube Networks

This PhD project at the University of Auckland develops a modeling framework to predict the non-linear electrical properties of nanoparticle or nanotube networks near the percolation threshold. The research, done in collaboration with experimental groups, aims to design intelligent materials for applications like stretch sensors and neuromorphic computing.

Requirements

Strong Honours or Master’s degree in physics, engineering, or a related field.
Background in computational modeling.

How to Apply

Email your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Dr. Elke Pahl at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: Modelling approaches for percolating nanoparticle/nanotube networks.”

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Plasmonically-Enhanced Perovskite Devices

This PhD project at the University of Canterbury focuses on improving perovskite solar cells and photodetectors using plasmonic resonant nanodot lattices to enhance charge generation efficiency. The research involves nanofabrication techniques to create hybrid photovoltaic and plasmonic devices for efficient power generation and opto-electronic communication.

Requirements

Honours (4-year) or Master’s degree in engineering, chemistry, physics, or a related field.
Practical mindset and strong academic ability.

How to Apply

Send your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Dr. Ciaran Moore at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: Plasmonically-enhanced perovskite devices.”

Weaving Adsorptive Power into Harakeke for Heavy Metal Removal

This PhD project at the University of Canterbury combines Pūtaiao Māori and advanced chemistry to enhance Harakeke leaves for removing toxic metal ions (e.g., copper, arsenic) from water. The research aims to develop sustainable drinking water purification technology to protect communities and the environment.

Requirements

Postgraduate research qualification (BSc with second-class upper honours or higher, or MSc/MEng) in chemistry, biochemical, materials, chemical, environmental engineering, or Indigenous science.
Interest in bridging Western Science and Pūtaiao Māori.
Laboratory experience and familiarity with Kaupapa Māori research principles are a plus.

How to Apply

Send your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Dr. Ben Yin at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: Weaving adsorptive power into harakeke for heavy metal removal.”

Metal-Organic Framework Materials for Carbon Capture and Separation

This PhD project at the University of Canterbury focuses on synthesizing and characterizing metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) to capture greenhouse gases like CO2 efficiently. The research explores MOFs and mixed-matrix membranes for large-scale gas separation, aiming for industrial applications.

Requirements

BSc (Hons) or MSc in chemistry or materials science.
Strong skills in synthetic chemistry and/or structural chemistry.

How to Apply

Email your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Professor Paul E. Kruger at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: Metal-organic framework materials for carbon capture and separation.”

Developing Conductive Porous Electrocatalysts for Greenhouse Gas Conversion

This PhD project at Victoria University of Wellington designs conductive electrocatalysts (e.g., MOFs, covalent-organic frameworks) to convert CO2 and CH4 into valuable chemicals. The research involves material synthesis, electrocatalysis, and integration into scalable electrode assemblies for sustainable greenhouse gas reduction.

Requirements

Strong background in chemistry, materials science, or chemical engineering.
Experience in organic synthesis, MOF synthesis, or materials characterization (e.g., XRD, SEM, electrochemical analysis) is a plus.
Familiarity with electrocatalysis, membrane technologies, or device integration is advantageous.

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How to Apply

Send your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Dr. Luke Liu at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: Developing conductive porous electrocatalysts for greenhouse gas conversion.”

Immobilised Electrocatalysts for CO2 Reduction into Commodity Chemicals

This PhD project, conducted at the University of Otago and the University of Canterbury, focuses on designing and testing molecular catalysts for converting CO2 into commodity chemicals like formate through electrocatalysis. The research builds on promising results, using covalent and spray/pyrolysis methods to immobilize catalysts and test them for CO2 reduction and hydrogen evolution reactions.

Requirements

Skills and experience in organic and/or inorganic synthesis and characterization methods.
Electrochemistry experience is advantageous.

How to Apply

Send your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Professor Sally Brooker at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: Immobilised electrocatalysts for CO2 reduction into commodity chemicals.”

Lanthanide Materials for Ammonia Production

This PhD project at Victoria University of Wellington explores lanthanide nitride materials as catalysts for ammonia synthesis, aiming to provide scientific insights and foster industry linkages. The research combines physicochemical experiments with potential materials engineering applications to address climate change challenges.

Requirements

Excellent Honours or Master’s degree in physics, materials science, or chemistry.
Genuine passion for climate change issues and solutions.

How to Apply

Email your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Associate Professor Franck Natali at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: Lanthanide materials for ammonia production.”

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Engineering Next-Generation Gas Diffusion Electrodes: Plasma-Sprayed Electrodes for Sustainable CO2 Conversion

This PhD project at the University of Canterbury develops advanced gas diffusion electrodes (GDEs) for CO2 reduction using plasma spray coating. The research involves fabricating and characterizing porous GDEs with techniques like microscopy, XRD, XPS, and synchrotron methods to optimize their electrocatalytic performance for sustainable energy solutions.

Requirements

Background in chemical engineering or materials science.
Experience in materials fabrication, electrochemistry, or advanced characterization techniques (e.g., microscopy, XRD, XPS) is desirable.
Interest in sustainable energy technologies and catalysis.

How to Apply

Send your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Professor Aaron Marshall at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: Engineering next-generation gas diffusion electrodes: Plasma-sprayed electrodes for sustainable CO2 conversion.”

Plasma-Assisted Electrochemical Ammonia Synthesis

This PhD project at the University of Auckland builds on recent breakthroughs in plasma-electrochemical ammonia synthesis, aiming to develop high-performance electrocatalysts for converting nitrogen from air into ammonia. The research involves designing and testing catalysts for NOx reduction to achieve sustainable ammonia production with high efficiency and stability.

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Requirements

Previous experience in designing, characterizing, and testing electrocatalysts for processes like NOxRR, CO2RR, ORR, or HER.
Strong track record of publishing in international peer-reviewed journals.
High self-motivation.

How to Apply

Send your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Professor Geoff Waterhouse at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: Plasma-assisted electrochemical ammonia synthesis.”

High Throughput Electrocatalyst Screening and Development for Sustainable Energy Applications

This PhD project at the University of Canterbury develops a high-throughput electrochemical screening tool to discover next-generation electrocatalysts for sustainable energy solutions. The research involves building hardware, coding, running experiments, and using advanced characterization techniques like SEM, XPS, and XAS, with opportunities for industry and global collaboration.

Requirements

Master’s degree (or equivalent) in chemical engineering, electrochemistry, materials science, physics, nanotechnology, or a related field.
Experience with electrochemical techniques; familiarity with Python or similar languages and hardware (e.g., Arduino, Raspberry Pi) is a plus.
Background in materials characterization (e.g., SEM, XRD, XPS) is beneficial.
Proficiency in English (IELTS > 7).

How to Apply

Email your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Professor Aaron Marshall at [email protected].
Subject line: “PhD project: High throughput electrocatalyst screening and development for sustainable energy applications.”

Catalytic Removal of Organic Pollutants from Water Coupled with Hydrogen Production

This PhD project at the University of Canterbury synthesizes and characterizes monometallic and mixed-metal clusters to create photocatalysts for removing organic pollutants from water while producing hydrogen. The research incorporates Pūtaiao Māori principles, collaborating with local iwi to ensure cultural respect while advancing sustainable clean water and energy technologies.

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Requirements

Strong knowledge of synthetic chemistry; experience with characterization techniques, catalytic testing, and data modeling is a plus.
Enthusiasm, excellent communication, time management, and teamwork skills.
Eagerness to learn about Māori culture and traditions, working with local iwi and Pūtaiao Māori Research Programme investigators.

How to Apply

Send your CV, academic record, and two referee contacts to Associate Professor Vladimir Golovko at [email protected].
Subject line: “Catalytic removal of organic pollutants from water coupled with hydrogen production.”

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