Project summary
Chiral molecules are distinct from their mirror image; much like a human hand. These handed molecules play a vital role in many biological functions. However, chiral molecular properties are difficult to determine, and common techniques provide limited information. The characterisation of chirality is essential to molecular biology and drug development, and a range of techniques has been developed to access chiral information. However, the information that these techniques provide is often minimal and always incomplete. For example, standard techniques such as circular dichroism cannot measure oriented properties of molecules (only rotational averages), cannot resolve molecular mixtures and provides sensitivity only for samples with enantiomeric excess.
In this project you will model the interactions of an intense electromagnetic field with molecule to model a new and powerful form of spectroscopy which enhances the analytic capabilities of rotational spectroscopy. Illuminating gaseous samples with an intense optical laser field shifts the rotational energy levels depending on the precise molecular polarisability. By recording rotational information of molecules in the time domain, we can combine measurement with intense stimulation by femtosecond laser pulses.
Project team and where the student will be based
Based in the School of Physics and Astronomy within the College of Science and Engineering, the candidates will reside in the Quantum Theory group headed by Prof. Stephen Barnett, working directly with Dr. Jörg Götte. The Quantum Theory Group has a broad range of interests, including quantum information, quantum thermodynamics and light-matter interactions. The topic also offers scope for interdisciplinary research with the School of Chemistry. The project is conducted jointly with the experimental group of Prof. Euan Hendry at the University of Exeter and requires close collaboration with an experimental PhD student.
Applicants should demonstrate the following:
Academic Qualifications
Applicants must have a first-class or strong upper second class degree or equivalent in Physics, ideally with a theory focus. Exceptional candidates from closely-related disciplines will also be considered.
Skills/Attributes
Problem-solving skills and research creativity, able to connect different areas of physics
Self-motivation, initiative and independent thought/working
Excellent interpersonal skills including team working and a collegiate approach
Excellent communication skills (oral and written) in an appropriate range of contexts
Deadline
The deadline for application is 15 June 2012, but the position will remain open until filled. Start date is 1 September 2021.
Eligibility
The candidate must have no restrictions on how long they can stay in the UK and have been ordinarily resident in the UK for at least 3 years prior to the start of the studentship (with some further constraints regarding residence for education for non-UK nationals).
How to Apply: Please refer to the following website for details on how to apply:
http://www.gla.ac.uk/research/opportunities/howtoapplyforaresearchdegree/.
Continue with Facebook
