The Institute:

The Institute of Fundamental Sciences is based at Massey University, a leading New Zealand institution. Massey is ranked in the top 3% of universities in the world. IFS are a group of interdisciplinary researchers doing world-leading research on nanomaterials with applications in drug delivery, foods, solar cells, gas storage and catalysis. Transforming these nanomaterials into useful products involves self-assembling them into structures within a liquid, called Pickering emulsions.

The Project:

We are seeking a PhD student to explore new techniques for probing the microscopic structure and dynamics inside emulsions and correlating this with how the liquids behave on the macroscopic scale.

You will be based at the Palmerston North campus of Massey University, with on-site access to a wide range of analytical equipment and expertise. You will be trained to use the world-class suite of instruments and advanced techniques available at the institute. These include rotational rheometry, micro-rheometry, electron and confocal microscopy, surface tensiometry and wetting instruments. You will collaborate extensively with the colloid and surface science community in New Zealand and Australia.

We’re looking for someone who: 

• has a Masters or Honours degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, nanotechnology or food science and an outstanding academic record

• has experience of independent research

• gets on well with a wide range of people

• has a strong sense of curiosity

• writes in English with concision and precision

We welcome international applicants. Please note that if your first language is not English you will need a minimum academic IELTS score of  6.5 with no band less than 6.0; or  a minimum TOEFL score of 575 paper based test along with a minimum TWE score of 4 (Essay Rating 4.0 or Writing 20).

Financial Support: You will receive a tax-free living allowance of NZ$25,000 per year for 3 years (plus tuition fees).

For more information or to send an application, please contact Dr Catherine Whitby (C.P.Whitby@massey.ac.nz).

Application process: We are receiving applications now, with an expected start date in early to mid-2015. Review of applications will begin on 8 December 2014 and continue until the position is filled. To apply, please email me:

• your curriculum vitae

• copies of your academic transcripts

• the names and contact details of two academic referees

• a letter that describes your research experience to date and explains why you are interested in this project

For more information on Pickering emulsions please go to www.surfacechemistrylab.com