Robinson Research Institute -Masters Scholarship: 3D fluorescent optical memory for long-term data storage

Study area(s): Engineering; Science
Scholarship level: Master’s Research; Master's by coursework
Closing date(s): 1 March 2024
Tenure: One year
Number offered: Two
Value: Stipend $25,000 NZD per annum, full tuition fees, student levies and insurance

History and purpose

Two (2) fully funded Masters scholarship in Physics are available for research into developing ultra-high-density three-dimensional fluorescent optical memory for long-term data storage and preservation at the world leading Robinson Research Institute [1] at Victoria University of Wellington (VUW), Lower Hutt, New Zealand. This new approach to ultra-high-density memory involves defect- and band-engineering of wide band gap materials to create suitable carrier traps where the luminescence from trapped charges can be used to represent a stored bit. Laser-induced spontaneous and stimulated emissions and a new super-resolution reading and writing method can potentially lead to bit dimensions less than 50 nm resulting in storage capacities exceeding 2 PB. Little is known about how the luminescent properties can be optimised via alternative synthesis routes, dopants, and using various optical stimulations. This research will greatly contribute to the understanding of luminescent materials and the development of proof-of-concept devices.

We are looking for candidates from NZ and abroad to undertake materials preparation using methods that include high-temperature melts and hydrothermal techniques. The materials will be characterised and studied by x-ray diffraction, SEM, TEM, optical absorption, and various luminescence techniques including photoluminescence and stimulated luminescence. The candidates will also participate in the design, construction and implementation of optical experiments involving laser stimulations. Access to additional resources is available through our affiliation with the MacDiarmid Institute for Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology [2]. There is also the opportunity for the candidates to travel abroad to attend international conferences and work with researchers from other parts of New Zealand.

Who is eligible?

  • Applicants should have a Physics (Honours) degree, with 1st class Honours, or relevant subject area. We are seeking a highly motivated person with an excellent academic record, a good understanding of physics, and able to work well in a team.

Application process

Please send an email to Dr Joe Schuyt (joe.schuyt@vuw.ac.nz), Dr Shen Chong (shen.chong@vuw.ac.nz), and Prof Grant Williams (grant.williams@vuw.ac.nz) with “Masters scholarship in Ultra-High-Density 3D Fluorescent Optical Memory” in the subject line. Please include the following information,

  • A full curriculum vitae, including your university transcripts
  • A statement indicating why you are interested in this project
  • Evidence of your English language ability
  • Your expected starting date

Additional information

This project is part of a newly funded New Zealand MBIE research programme on ‘Three-dimensional fluorescent optical memory for long-term data storage and preservation’, which involves researchers from Te Herenga Waka–Victoria University of Wellington.

References

[1] https://www.wgtn.ac.nz/robinson

[2] https://www.macdiarmid.ac.nz/

Contact

For more information please contact Dr Joe Schuyt (joe.schuyt@vuw.ac.nz), Dr Shen Chong (shen.chong@vuw.ac.nz) or Prof Grant Williams (grant.williams@vuw.ac.nz).