Novel approach to laser-driven multi-stage particle accelerator

PhD STUDENTSHIP:
Centre for Plasma Physics, Queen’s University Belfast


Title:
Novel approach to laser-driven multi-stage particle accelerator

All-optical approaches to particle acceleration are currently attracting a significant research effort internationally. Key to the interest in a laser based particle accelerator lies in its cost effective and compactness. However, the ion beams accelerated by the laser-driven mechanisms have shortcomings such as a broad energy spectrum and large beam divergence. A recently developed concept of a versatile, miniature linear accelerating module harnesses the extremely high electromagnetic pulses produced by the interaction of intense lasers, and achieves simultaneous focusing, energy selection and post-acceleration of the proton beams. The process boosts the energy of the ions accelerated from the foil, through the application of a large amplitude field within the coil, which travels synchronously with the ions. This process lends itself to multistaging, i.e. the sequential application of laser-driven accelerating fields, which is highly promising for significant increase of the accelerated proton energies. The project aims to develop this multi-stage approach which is totally new in the context of laser-driven protons, and can pave the way towards miniature, modular ion accelerators providing beams suitable for medical, scientific and industrial applications.


We are looking for a PhD student to help with an experimental programme as part of an “Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)” funded programme grant “A-SAIL”. A-SAIL (Advanced Strategies for Accelerating Ions with Lasers) is a UK-wide consortium aimed to the development of ion acceleration towards medical applications. The main objective of the project is to assess the potential of the laser-driven ion approach as an alternative source for cancer therapy, by demonstrating controlled, all-optical acceleration of dense bunches of protons and other low-Z ion species.

The experimental programme involves, amongst other things, the use of high power (100s TW – PW) lasers to develop further the techniques towards control and optimisation of the laser driven proton beam parameters. Experiments will be carried out not only in the in-house TARANIS laser facility but also at external large-scale facilities both within and outside the UK. The successful candidate will work in a team including other PhD students and researchers from collaborating institutions.


Entry Requirements
Candidates should hold at least a 2.1 BSc (or equivalent) in Physics or relevant subject.

Further details of the research group can be found on the CPP website at http://www.qub.ac.uk/mp/cpp/ or by direct contact with [Email Address Removed].

Application process
To apply: Use the online application form available at:

https://dap.qub.ac.uk/portal/user/u_login.php

Please ensure you provide all the information requested.


Closing date: 5:00 Friday 24 February 2017