Towards the understanding and development of multi-position molecular switches based on endohedral fullerene molecules

Fully funded PhD studentship

School of Chemistry, University of St Andrews

Research Area: Chemical Physics,

Scanning Probe Microscopy, Fullerenes

Supervisor:      Dr Renald Schaub

Prof Eleanor Campbell

Start Date: September / October 2025

Applications are invited for a talented and motivated PhD candidate to join our team at the University of St Andrews (Scotland, UK) working towards the understanding and development of multi-position molecular switches based on individual endohedral fullerene molecules and building on recent results with LiC₆₀ [1]. The project will involve a combination of experimental work (carried out by the PhD candidate) and theoretical calculations (by collaborators) to determine the conductance and switching mechanism within the endohedral molecules. The theoretical component of the project will be carried out by collaborators outwith the UK. The research is motivated by recent experimental studies in Edinburgh and St Andrews that have demonstrated a multi-way switch using LiC₆₀ deposited on a metal substrate. The position of the Li inside the fullerene cage can be manipulated by applying a voltage from an STM tip in a novel mechanism that is thought to be connected to the excitation of diffuse Rydberg-like molecular orbitals. As many as 14 different switch positions have been identified within a single molecule [1], far more than for conventional molecular switches. An increased understanding of the mechanism and further studies on the optimisation and control of the switching phenomenon in endohedral fullerenes could lead to the development of a highly promising nanoelectronics component. A suitable candidate will possess a first class or upper-second class undergraduate degree (Masters or equivalent) in chemistry, physics or materials science. A strong interest in advanced experimental techniques involving low temperature STM is essential. Other essential attributes are good presentation and communication skills, both written and oral.

• The PhD studentship is fully funded (UK and international students welcome).
• Supervisors: Dr Renald Schaub, School of Chemistry, University of St Andrews. Prof Eleanor Campbell, School of Chemistry, University of Edinburgh
• Web: https://schaubgroup.wp.st-andrews.ac.uk/
• Masters degree, first class or upper-second class (or equivalent) in chemistry, physics or materials science.
• Start date: September or October 2025 (or sooner)
• IELTS score of 7.0 or above, with a minimum score of 6.5 in every section.

[1] H.J. Chandler, M. Stefanou, E.E.B. Campbell, R. Schaub, “LiC60 as a multi-state molecular switch”, Nature Comm. 10 (2019) 2283.

The School of Chemistry at the University of St Andrews, consistently rated as one of the top 4 Chemistry departments in the UK, has about 45 academic staff, 100 graduate students and around 60 postdoctoral workers. We are one of the best-equipped research schools in the UK, and have research groupings in many areas of chemistry. The University of St Andrews is the oldest in Scotland and was rated University of the Year 2002-03 by the Sunday Times. St Andrews is a charming, friendly and picturesque small town, famous for its golf courses, beaches and surrounding countryside.

A suitable candidate will possess a first class or upper-second class undergraduate degree (Masters or equivalent) in chemistry, physics or materials science. A strong interest in advanced experimental techniques involving low temperature STM is essential. Other essential attributes are good presentation and communication skills, both written and oral.