4D printing for advanced bioelectronics 

PhD project description

The rapid growth in renewable energy technologies demands innovative solutions for more efficient energy generation and storage systems. 4D printing, an emerging technology that integrates dynamic “smart” materials into 3D-printed structures, opens new frontiers in both bioelectronics and solar energy harvesting.

Our goal is to create adaptive electrode architectures. These advanced electrodes hold significant promise for improving bioelectronic systems, enhancing energy generation and storage, and accelerating the adoption of renewable energy applications.

We invite applications for a fully funded three-year PhD studentship, starting in October 2025, focused on one of the following research objectives:

• To develop biomimetic designs that enhance energy harvesting and bioelectronic functionality
• To explore the advanced materials, including MXene-based and other functional nanomaterials, for improved electrochemical performance
• To investigate the smart, programmable electrodes that adapt to changing environmental conditions for improved efficiency in renewable energy systems
• To design the novel, multi-material printing strategies to develop tuneable energy devices
• To evaluate the real-world performance of advanced electrode materials in bioelectronics, supercapacitors, and other energy storage technologies
• Optimise the 4D-printed structures for long-term stability and high-power density in dynamic energy harvesting applications

What the PhD programme offers you

This PhD will include the payment of home tuition fees and stipend payments (currently at £20,780 p.a. tax free for 2025/26). Please note that studentship funding is for UK students via an internal competition and is therefore only confirmed sometime after the admission application is approved.

• Cutting-edge training: Gain hands-on experience with multi-material 4D printing, advanced electrode fabrication, and state-of-the-art characterisation (e.g., SEM, TEM, XPS, electrochemical testing)
• Industrial secondments: Collaborate with industry to tackle real-world manufacturing challenges in renewable energy applications
• International research exchanges: Opportunities to join overseas partners for collaborative projects on sustainable energy and bioelectronics
• Interdisciplinary skills development: Bridge expertise in materials science, mechanical/chemical engineering, and advanced manufacturing

Candidate requirements

We welcome students from diverse backgrounds whether you have research experience in electrode materials for supercapacitors, additive manufacturing, electrochemical characterisation, or related fields. A strong degree (first or high upper second) in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline is preferred.

Specific experiences that may be particularly relevant include:

• Fabrication and characterisation of advanced materials e.g., MXenes, 2D/2D heterostructures, etc
• Electrochemical measurements (CV, GCD, EIS, long-cycle testing) and analysis techniques
• Previous involvement in research projects (industry or academic) related to welding, casting, or innovative manufacturing processes
• A track record of presentations and publications (international conferences, peer-reviewed journals)

Eligibility and how to apply

The studentship is available to UK candidates only.

Closing date: 5 June 2025 

Email the project supervisor - Dr Xiaolong Chen - prior to submitting an online application for a discussion with the following documents:

• Curriculum Vitae including details of research experience, publications, and any technical skills
• Cover Letter outlining your motivation, relevant experience, and preferred research theme(s)
• Academic transcripts and English language proficiency proof (if applicable)

After discussion you may be invited for an interview.