Scholarship: Fully-funded
Degree: Bachelor, Master, Ph.D
Nationality: International Students
Location: Hong Kong
Application deadlines: Open
Scholarship Description:
Professor David Srolovitz is an internationally recognized expert in materials theory and computational modeling, focusing on crystal defects, microstructural evolution, and optoelectronic properties. He is a member of the National Academy of Engineering and a fellow of several societies, including MRS, TMS, ASM International, and the Institute of Physics. He currently serves as the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Hong Kong.
His “Materials Theory & Computation Group” concentrates on three main areas:
- Investigating the structure and thermodynamic properties of material defects, including the effects of grain boundaries and dislocations on mechanical and optoelectronic properties and radiation damage.
- Developing multiscale simulation methods, including first-principles calculations and atomistic simulations for two-dimensional materials, topological materials, and multiphase systems.
- Exploring innovative applications of machine learning in materials science.
The group recruits several PhD students and postdoctoral researchers each year, categorized into three types based on funding sources:
- Type A: Fully funded by the Hong Kong government, with no costs to the group. These positions are open year-round, including the HKU Presidential PhD Scholar Programme and the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme, as well as the RGC Junior Research Fellow Scheme for postdocs.
- Type B: Partially funded by the government or the University of Hong Kong, supplemented by the group’s research funds, depending on current funding availability. Typically, the university allocates about one PhD quota per year, usually confirmed in December, with funding shared between the university and the group. Postdocs are mainly recruited through the Hong Kong Scholars Program.
- Type C: Fully supported by the group’s research funds. This designation reflects only the funding source, not the applicant’s potential. Exceptional candidates may be recruited through this channel if funds are available.
The group applies for multiple research grants annually to support PhD stipends and postdoctoral salaries. Applications for Type A positions can be submitted anytime, while applicants for Types B and C are encouraged to contact us in advance. Final decisions will depend on grant approvals.
For specific research topics and application timelines, please refer to the group’s homepage: MTC Srolovitz Group.
Available Subjects:
- Materials theory and computation.
Eligibility criteria:
- We welcome passionate PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, visiting scholars, and collaborators in the field of materials theory and computational materials science to join our team. It is important to note that all research projects in the group are centered on theoretical calculations, with experimental work conducted by collaborating teams worldwide. Therefore, we place a high value on applicants’ expertise in theoretical analysis, model development, and computational simulation. Ideal candidates should have a background in materials science, applied physics, mechanics, or related fields, and proficiency in at least one computational simulation method (such as first-principles calculations, molecular dynamics simulations, finite element simulations, etc.), along with some programming skills.
- The group offers an international research platform and maintains close collaboration with top experimental teams globally, providing excellent development opportunities for each member. We foster a strong academic atmosphere with collegial relationships among members, supporting each other in daily research and engaging in open discussions. We expect new members to possess a solid academic foundation and to actively participate in team collaboration. Here, you can focus on research, explore academic questions with like-minded peers, and progress in a relaxed yet professional environment.
Application Procedure:
For more details or to express interest in joining our group, please visit our homepage: MTC Srolovitz Group.
To apply or inquire about collaboration opportunities, please contact Assistant Professor Subrahmanyam Pattamatta at [email protected] with your CV. Candidates will be screened for interviews organized by Professor David Srolovitz.
