PhD in Applied Physics

Project: Applications of Liquid Crystals in Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality technologies. Location: University of Leeds, Leeds. Number of Positions: 1. Eligibility: UK Only. Funding: School of Physics & Astronomy Scholarship, in collaboration with Merck, providing the award of full academic fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant at the standard UKRI rate (currently £20,780 in academic session 2025/26) per year for 3.5 years. Project summary: Liquid crystals are ordered fluids which display birefringence and dielectric anisotropy. These properties allowed them to revolutionise display technologies (i.e. LCD TVs). Augmented (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies are the next logical step in display device technology; however, they require novel solutions in engineering and physics to overcome limitations and become fully realised. This fully funded PhD project aims to characterise and understand liquid crystalline based materials and optical devices for future AR/VR technologies. This studentship will be part funded by Merck KGaA who are specialist in liquid crystals and optoelectronics. Thus, the successful candidate will join a diverse and multidisciplinary team of chemist, physicists, and engineers in academia and industry.