Structural role of magnesium in glass and glass-ceramics

Glass and glass-ceramic materials play pivotal roles in science and technology, where attributes such as their strength, transparency and mouldability lead to applications that range from lasers to cover glass. These materials are also used as proxies to investigate the structure and properties of magma-related materials in earth science. The focus of this project is on the role played by magnesium in glass and glass-ceramic oxides. Magnesium is an essential component in a multitude of these materials, but is the element about which least is known. It has a chameleon-like character, which can transform the structural role that it plays. The project is sponsored by Corning Incorporated (www.corning.com), a US manufacturer of glass, ceramics and related materials for industrial and scientific applications.

Details: You will be using a combination of neutron and x-ray scattering, nuclear magnetic resonance and other techniques to elucidate the structural role of magnesium (Mg) containing glass and glass-ceramic materials, and to see how this structure influences their mechanical, thermal and optical properties. The experiments will provide benchmark data for computer simulation and other modelling approaches. The overall aim is to design new materials with the desired properties through knowledge of their structure, a route that is already used extensively in pharmaceutical drug design. You will gain experience of working within a network of informed scientists and technologists from academia, central facilities and industry.

Applicants should have a background in the physical sciences and have or expect to gain a First or Upper Second Class UK Honours degree, or the equivalent from an overseas University.

Formal applications should be made via the University of Bath’s online application form for a PhD in Physics:
https://samis.bath.ac.uk/urd/sits.urd/run/siw_ipp_lgn.login?process=siw_ipp_app&code1=RDUPH-FP01&code2=0012

More information about applying for a PhD at Bath may be found here:
http://www.bath.ac.uk/guides/how-to-apply-for-doctoral-study/

Anticipated start date: As soon as possible.