Nicholas Kirkwood (Nick) is a materials chemist with expertise in the synthesis, characterisation and application of colloidal nanomaterials. More broadly he is passionate about using the science of excitons and nanomaterials to help drive a global transition to a carbon neutral economy. Nick's role within the Exciton Science Centre is to manage student projects and lab safety within the Nanoscience laboratory at the University of Melbourne, develop and maintain collaborative projects within and outside of the Exciton Science Centre, and to undertake sample fabrication and proof-of-principle research for collaborations and industry partners.
Prior to working at Exciton Science, Nick worked for two years as a post-doctoral researcher at the Optolelectronic Materials Group at the Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands (2016-2018). During this time he developed non-toxic nanomaterials for lighting and solar energy applications, and was involved in working on and building collaborative projects with industry in the Netherlands. Before this, Nick worked at both CSIRO and Melbourne University to complete his PhD on the synthesis of semiconductor nanocrystals ("quantum dots") and their application in LEDs (2012-2016).
Outside of his work Nick is a keen cyclist and also enjoys hiking, camping, and reading, as well as using his chemistry skills to brew beer and make bread.
