Monash/Bayreuth Double PhD Degree Opportunity – International Research Training Group “OPTEXC” - Optical Excitations in Organic and Inorganic Semiconductors
Job No.: 699020
Locations: Clayton [Home] / Bayreuth [Host]
Study mode: Full-time
Degrees: E8009.1 - Doctor of Philosophy (Monash - Bayreuth)
Duration: 3.5 years fixed-term appointment
Remuneration: AUD $37,145 per annum (tax-free stipend, 2026 full-time rate, pro-rata)
About the Monash–Bayreuth Joint PhD Program
The Doctor of Philosophy (Monash – Bayreuth) is an elite, international double-degree doctoral program delivered through a collaborative partnership between Monash University (Australia) and the University of Bayreuth (Germany). Designed to train the next generation of global research leaders, the program enables candidates to conduct cutting-edge research under joint supervision from both world-class institutions, culminating in a recognized double PhD degree.
Monash University (Australia): Ranked 31st globally and a member of Australia’s prestigious Group of Eight, Monash is a powerhouse of research innovation. Its Department of Materials Science and Engineering ranks second nationally, driving breakthroughs in advanced materials, polymer chemistry, biomaterials, and metallurgy within state-of-the-art facilities.
University of Bayreuth (Germany): A renown center for interdisciplinary excellence, Bayreuth is globally recognized for its pioneering research in optical excitations, organic/inorganic semiconductors, macromolecular science, and advanced energy technologies.
The International Joint Degree: As part of this program (integrated within the DFG-funded IRTG 2818 / OPTEXC framework), candidates complete an extended research stay of 12 months at the partner institution. Doctoral researchers gain access to cross-continental industry links, specialized facilities, and dual academic networks, graduating with two doctoral degrees to maximize global career impact.
The research opportunity
Monash University has partnered with the University of Bayreuth (Germany) along with the University of Melbourne to constitute an interdisciplinary International Research Training Group (IRTG): “Optical excitations in organic and inorganic semiconductors” (https://irtg-optexc.de/). As part of this program there is the opportunity for students to undertake fully funded joint degrees with the University of Bayreuth in Germany in the areas of experimental and theoretical physics, synthetic, physical and computational chemistry, material sciences and related areas.
The OPTEXC IRTG involves 20 academics in Australia and Germany working in complementary areas related to novel semiconductor materials. A range of PhD projects are on offer relating to understanding how the optoelectronic properties of semiconductors, notably the nature of their photoexcitations, can be tailored by employing external stimuli such as local fields. In this IRTG, you will be part of an international and diverse team working on both organic and inorganic semiconductors, in order to develop a general understanding of the effects of external stimuli on the photophysical properties of these types of semiconductors. This IRTG provides an outstanding environment for research training and a unique opportunity to undertake a truly international PhD, with a one-year research stay at the University of Bayreuth in Germany part of the doctoral qualification program, leading to joint PhDs with degrees from both universities.
Applications are sought from outstanding candidates with backgrounds in chemistry, physics, materials science and related disciplines.
Specific projects seeking applications are:
- Autonomous experimental solar cell materials discovery.
Supervisor: Prof. Udo Bach, Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering.
(Email: udo.bach@monash.edu)
- Next-generation printable solar cells
Supervisor: Prof. Jacek Jasieniak, Department of Materials Science and Engineering.
(Email: jacek.asieniak@monash.edu)
- Advanced in-situ synchrotron X-ray characterisation of solution-processed semiconductor films
Supervisor: Prof. Chris McNeill, Department of Materials Science and Engineering
(Email: christopher.mcneill@monash.edu)
For further information about the OPTEXC IRTG in general, please consult the website: https://irtg-optexc.de/. For specific questions about the research projects above, please email the corresponding supervisor.
What makes this opportunity special?
Earn a Doctor of Philosophy from Monash University and the University of Bayreuth (Germany).
12-month research stay in Germany - Undertake a fully funded 12-month research stay at the University of Bayreuth as part of the program.
Be part of a larger student cohort with joint workshops and training opportunities.
Who are we looking for?
We are particularly interested in applicants with a background or experience in:
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Physics
- Chemistry
Successful applicants will also demonstrate:
- Excellent academic and research capability
- Strong written and verbal English communication skills
- Strong problem-solving and communication skills
- The ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary research team.
Qualifications:
- Applicants should hold, or be close to completing, a Bachelor Honours degree (H1 or equivalent) and/or Master's degree with an excellent academic record.
- Candidates currently completing a 4-year Honours degree (or equivalent 3+1 year program) with a final-year research project, aiming for or achieving an H1 standard, will also be considered.
- Applicants who already hold a PhD are not eligible.
This opportunity is open to international applicants.
Degree Information
- E8009.1 - Doctor of Philosophy (Monash - Bayreuth)
Application Process
Please submit your application to Prof. Chris McNeill (christopher.mcneill@monash.edu) which should include:
Shortlisted applications will be invited to a video interview.
Enquiries
Prof. Chris McNeill: christopher.mcneill@monash.edu
Applications close: 30 October 2026, 11:55pm AEDT or earlier if the position is filled. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and early applications are encouraged.
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