Accelerated Charged Particles and Beam Dynamics in Mass Spectrometry

Mass spectrometry (MS) is a powerful technique for identifying unknown compounds, quantifying known compounds, and exploring molecular structures. MS was pioneered over a century ago by Nobel laureate Sir J. J. Thomson in 1913. Since that time MS has become a subject area of enormous scope and the mass spectrometer an invaluable analytical tool for a range of professionals including physicists, chemists, biologists, physicians, astronomers, geologists, archaeologists, engineers, physiologists, and materials scientists [1]. Underpinning this technique is the force law of Lorentz which dictates that the motion of charged particles can be predicted when subjected to a combination of electric and/or magnetic fields.

A clear distinction is made between direct action and contact action theories of electrodynamics. In the former we speak of a direct force between each pair of charged particles while in the latter, one charge does not interact directly with any other, but only through a medium. The medium, originally termed the aether, has since been replaced by the field concept so that each charge generates electric and magnetic fields. These fields are propagated at a finite speed from each charge and they interact with other charges when they reach them.

For this self-funded PhD project you will develop a general purpose model to predict the motion of charged species in an electromagnetic field. The model will be developed based on the concept of non-local, direct interaction between charged bodies that are separated in space [2, 3]. From this basis you will develop a novel approach for the mass spectrometric separation of charged particles based on their mass (or rather mass-to-charge ratio). Results will be validated experimentally. You should be enthusiastic with an interest and/or familiarity with either mathematics, electromagnetics, mechanics, physics and have strong programming skills. Experience with Matlab is desirable.

You will receive training in charged particle beam dynamics and mass spectrometer design. These are highly desirable skillsets for an academic and/or industrial career. The successful candidate will also be exposed to industry, working with our industrial project partner, Q-Technologies.

Specific enquiries regarding this project should be made to Dr Simon Maher ([Email Address Removed]). All general enquiries should be directed to Ms Alison Goodyear ([Email Address Removed]).

To apply please send your CV and a covering letter to Dr S. Maher ([Email Address Removed]) with a copy to [Email Address Removed]