The Large Area 2D Semiconductor Platforms Scholarship 2026 at the University of Southampton, United Kingdom, is a fully funded doctoral research opportunity. The project focuses on developing scalable two-dimensional (2D) semiconductor materials and devices for next-generation electronics, photonics, and neuromorphic computing applications.

About the Large Area 2D Semiconductor Platforms Scholarship

The University of Southampton offers this PhD project under the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, within the School of Electronics and Computer Science (ECS).

The research aims to revolutionise semiconductor technology by replacing traditional silicon-based scaling with atomically thin 2D materials. These materials can be engineered at the molecular scale and enable ultra-miniaturised devices for computing, sensing, and photonics.

The project responds to the physical limits of silicon technology and supports the development of next-generation semiconductor platforms that enable:

  • Neuromorphic computing hardware
  • In-memory computing systems
  • Advanced optoelectronic devices
  • Energy-efficient electronic systems

Students work with state-of-the-art large-area 2D material growth systems, including equipment not widely available in other institutions. The project also provides access to one of the most advanced university cleanrooms in the UK for device fabrication and testing.

Why Choose The Large Area 2D Semiconductor Platforms Scholarship?

This PhD allows you to work at the frontier of semiconductor physics, nanotechnology, and next-generation computing hardware.

You gain hands-on experience in:

  • Fabrication of 2D semiconductor devices
  • Semiconductor physics and material characterisation
  • Cleanroom-based nanofabrication
  • Integrated electronics and photonics design

You also develop skills highly relevant to:

  • Semiconductor industry (TSMC, Intel, Samsung, etc.)
  • AI hardware and neuromorphic computing
  • Research and development in advanced materials

Large Area 2D Semiconductor Platforms Scholarship Summary

  • Host Country: United Kingdom
  • Host University: University of Southampton
  • Scholarship Name: Large Area 2D Semiconductor Platforms
  • Study Level: PhD (Doctoral Research)
  • Funding Type: Fully funded studentship
  • Duration: Up to 4 years
  • Funding Coverage: Full tuition fees + UKRI stipend (tax-free)
  • Research Field: 2D materials, semiconductors, electronics, photonics
  • Selection Basis: Academic excellence, materials science, and engineering background
  • Application Requirement: Direct PhD application with supervisor contact
  • Closing Date: 31 August 2026

Scholarship Benefits

This PhD studentship provides:

  • Full tuition fee coverage
  • A tax-free UKRI doctoral stipend for up to 4 years
  • Access to advanced 2D material synthesis equipment
  • Training in semiconductor fabrication and device physics
  • Use of one of the UK’s most advanced university cleanrooms
  • Opportunities to design and test next-generation electronic devices
  • Collaboration with leading research groups in nanoelectronics

Eligibility Criteria

You qualify for this PhD if you:

  • Hold a UK 2:1 honours degree or international equivalent
  • Have a background in:
    • Physics
    • Engineering
    • Chemistry
    • Electronics or materials science
  • Demonstrate interest in:
    • Semiconductor physics
    • Photonics or nanotechnology
    • Device fabrication and modelling
  • Ideally, have experience in:
    • Experimental lab work
    • Programming or computational modelling
  • Meet English language requirements for doctoral study

Required Documents

You must submit:

  • Completed the University of Southampton PhD application form
  • Academic CV
  • Degree transcripts and certificates
  • Two academic references
  • Research proposal or statement of interest
  • English language test results (if required)
  • Supervisor contact confirmation (recommended)

Application Process & Timeline

You follow these steps:

  1. You apply for a PhD in Electronics and Computer Science at Southampton.
  2. You contact the project supervisor (Dr Ioannis Zeimpekis).
  3. You prepare your CV, transcripts, references, and research statement.
  4. You submit your application through the university portal.
  5. The university reviews your academic and technical background.
  6. Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed.
  7. Successful applicants receive a fully funded PhD offer.