The Nicholls Group uses electron microscopy and quantum mechanical simulations to predict and study the structure and chemistry of materials at the nanoscale.
What we do
We aim to use this information to understand the macroscopic properties of materials, leading to improvements in existing systems and the design of new materials.
We study a variety of materials, as well as looking at the methods used to interpret experimental data.
Our research breaks down into three 'Research Areas':
Modelling - Modelling and simulation is a central part of our research. We use quantum mechanics (density functional theory) to simulate materials, defects and experimental data. In all cases, the aim of the modelling is to solve a Materials Science problem. More…
Functional Materials - We work, with Private companies such as Rolls Royce and other research groups at Oxford and Imperial to understand the how the structure and chemistry of materials changes as a result of degradation from the operating environment. More…
Energy Materials - Energy materials are used for energy applications. Our research focuses on two areas: battery materials and catalysts for fuel cells. More…
