PhD in Chemistry - Micro-reactor for combined X-ray and Vibrational spectroscopy

Highly motivated candidates are invited to apply for a fully funded 3.5 year PhD position in the School of Chemistry, available to commence on 1st October 2023 to work with Dr Emma Gibson in the Heterogeneous Catalysis Section at the University of Glasgow.

Operando and in situ spectroscopic characterisation of catalysts using infrared and X-rays has allowed the structure-activity relationships of many systems to be assessed. However, traditional ‘single point’ analysis can fail for certain systems due to temperature and reactant/product concentration gradients being present along the catalyst bed. In collaboration with the University of Southampton and Queen’s University Belfast, we have recently demonstrated the changing structure of a catalyst along a fixed bed reactor via the use of combined X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAFS) and Diffuse Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (DRIFTS). If the catalyst under working conditions presents such variation of structure and we only measure a single point along the bed, how is it possible to know if this is a representative position of the operating catalyst? This project will develop a microreactor able to study heterogeneous catalyst reactions by spatially resolved XAFS, XRD and FTIR spectroscopy, i.e. being able to monitor changes in catalyst structure, along the length of the reactor. Over the past decade microfluidics have been used to perform many in situ investigations of heterogeneous catalysts. With collaborators in Stockholm University, we aim to make a device where one side of the reactor is an infrared transparent material such as CaF₂ and with quartz on the other side, complimentary X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAFS) or XRD measurements would also be possible.

If you have any questions before applying, please email Dr Emma Gibson ([Email Address Removed]).

It is the University of Glasgow’s mission to foster an inclusive climate, which ensures equality in our working, learning, research and teaching environment.

We strongly endorse the principles of Athena SWAN, including a supportive and flexible working environment, with commitment from all levels of the organisation in promoting gender equality.

As an Athena SWAN Bronze Award holder, the School of Chemistry has equality, diversity and inclusion at its heart, and actively supports applications from all sections of society.

More details of the School’s Athena SWAN activities can be found here:

https://www.gla.ac.uk/schools/chemistry/abouttheschool/athenaswan/

How to Apply: Please refer to the following website for details on how to apply:

http://www.gla.ac.uk/research/opportunities/howtoapplyforaresearchdegree/.