Laboratory Astrophysics: Spectroscopy of astrophysically important elements and applications of the new atomic data to astrophysics

PhD Studentship project for full-time PhD study: Space & Atmospheric Physics Group, Physics Department, Imperial College London

PhD Project: Laboratory Astrophysics: Spectroscopy of astrophysically important elements and applications of the new atomic data to astrophysics.

Research areas: atomic physics, spectroscopy, astrophysics and atmospheric physics

Background:
The spectra of planetary atmospheres and stars are usually extremely complex: all the elements of the periodic table may contribute, as molecules or atoms in more than one stage of ionisation, blends of several lines are the rule rather than the exception. New high resolution spectrographs on ground- and space based telescopes give exciting spectra of stars and planetary atmospheres, but the laboratory atomic data (atomic energy levels, wavelengths etc) that are vital for the interpretation of the astrophysical spectra, are often too inaccurate and incomplete. Vast improvements are needed in many cases in knowledge of atomic spectra in the laboratory.

The Imperial College Space & Atmospheric Physics group’s Spectroscopy Laboratory is a world leader in atomic data for astrophysics applications. We have unique instrumentation - a Fourier Transform spectrometer holding the short wavelength record for an instrument of its kind, and with its very high resolution and broad spectral range it is ideal for studies of astrophysically important atoms and ions in the visible to ultra violet spectral range. Once an atomic spectrum has been recorded in the laboratory, an analysis of the spectrum is carried out to yield new atomic parameters over a broad spectral range (infra red through to ultraviolet) at unprecedented accuracy. We collaborate internationally on applications of the new atomic data. A current example is our work on the Gaia ESO survey of 100,000 Galactic stars to understand Galactic evolution.

Research Objectives: An STFC funded Ph.D. project is available to investigate astrophysically important atomic spectra using high resolution spectroscopy. Element spectra to be studied will be carefully selected to be most relevant and urgently needed for astrophysics applications - currently the iron group elements are our targets. The initial stage of the project is experimental in nature with spectra being studied in the UV and visible spectral region at Imperial College, and in the infra-red possibly at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (USA) or in Lund University (Sweden), with whom we regularly collaborate. The student would then undertake a full analysis of the spectra, for example to find new atomic energy levels, accurate wavelengths, understand line broadening effects such as hyperfine structure etc. We anticipate collaboration with theoretical atomic physics groups during this analysis stage. The new atomic data will then be applied in particular astrophysical spectral analyses through collaboration with astronomers. Examples include: working with teams investigating topics as diverse as Galactic evolution, time variation of the Fundamental constants, and understanding volcanism on Jovian moon Io.

The student will gain: experimental expertise in a world-class laboratory, using unique instruments; experience undertaking experiments in laboratories abroad; learn about atomic physics; skills in theoretical analysis of spectra learning computational and analytical skills; experience working on applications of the new atomic data to analyses of particular astrophysical spectra.

The Student: The strongest candidates will have a first class or upper second class degree in physics, astrophysics or chemistry. This PhD suits a student who enjoys a combination of computational, analytical and experimental work.

Applications: forms are at: http://www3.imperial.ac.uk/pgprospectus/applicationforms

When you have submitted your application online please inform Prof Juliet Pickering that you have applied [Email Address Removed].

Eligibility information for Research Council studentship funding and other funding routes can be found at: http://www.imperial.ac.uk/study/pg/fees-and-funding/

Applications will be considered as they arrive, early application is recommended.
STFC Studentship starts: October 2017