University of Poitiers – Research Internship

Overview

It is now firmly established that various properties of materials can be significantly modified when characteristic dimensions are reduced to the nanoscale. For instance, the strength of nanoparticles is much larger compared to the bulk material. Furthermore, new deformation mechanisms were identified at this scale. University of Poitiers brings two research experiences that are listed below:

Topic A - Nanoparticles, molecular dynamics, amorphous silicon, plasticity

Recent investigations of the mechanical properties of small amorphous silicon nanoparticles hence revealed a homogeneous plastic deformation during uniaxial compression. This is utterly different from bulk amorphous silicon which is known to deform thanks to localized shear bands. A transition from inhomogeneous to homogeneous plastic deformation as a function of nanoparticle size is therefore expected. The objective of this internship is to determine and characterize this transition in terms of
nanoparticle size and plasticity mechanisms. Atomistic molecular dynamics simulations of the compression of amorphous silicon nanoparticles will be performed for this purpose. 

Topic B - Nanoparticles, molecular dynamics, core-shell, plasticity

So far, most theoretical investigations focused on single element nanoparticles with perfect shapes and clean surfaces. Such models are useful but likely too ideal for a meaningful comparison with real systems probed in experiments. For instance, a thin SiO2 oxide layer is usually present at the surface of silicon nanoparticles. The influence of this thin shell is expected to modify nanoparticle properties, but our knowledge remains limited due to a lack of dedicated investigations. To fill the gap, the objective of this internship is to study Si-SiO2 core-shell nanoparticles using atomistic molecular dynamics simulations.

*While filling out application, please state which topic you prefer in the space: "Why did you select this program?"

About the University

The University of Poitiers is symbiotically rooted in its region, getting as close as possible to institutional, economic, cultural and academic actors. The University of Poitiers is located mainly in Greater Poitiers, on the campuses of central Poitiers, Poitiers-East and Futuroscope. It has also developed campuses in Niort and Angoulême, where it offers undergraduate (including the 2-year DUT diplomas) and postgraduate studies. It also has sites in Châtellerault and Segonzac. 

Learn more about the institute

Eligibility and Requirements

Admission to this program is competitive and availability is limited. Evaluation will be based on academic performance, application package materials and program goals. Only complete applications that meet all minimum admissions criteria will be accepted for evaluation.

Students who desire to study abroad in Malaysia must have:

• Minimum 2.5 GPA
• Good academic standing with the university
• Attendance at all required program-specific orientations
• Sophomore, junior or senior classification (seniors graduating in the summer are not eligible)
• Open to MSEN

Estimated Cost

The following chart estimates the total out-of-pocket expenses a student may have participating in this program. For a full list of the financial aid requirements please visit our Financial aid and Scholarship page.

Please note that all costs are subject to change and will vary based on cost and location.

Contact Information

Engineering Global Programs
Zachry Engineering Education Complex
Suite 410
engineeringglobalprograms@tamu.edu

Leslie Donaway
Engineering Global Programs Office
Zachry Engineering Education Complex
Suite 410 | ldonaway@tamu.edu