Dr V Stavros
Applications accepted all year round
Funded PhD Project (European/UK Students Only)
About the Project
The successful applicant will study how organic-based ultraviolet radiation (UVR) filter molecules found in everyday life (e.g. sunscreen lotions) absorb UVR and convert this potentially toxic electronic excitation energy into non-toxic vibrational motion (or heat). Using femtosecond pump-probe spectroscopy, the electronically excited state dynamics of these UVR filters will be probed in real time following irradiation with UVA and UVB (400-280 nm). A range of pump-probe spectroscopic techniques will be utilised, including within the recently established, world class Warwick Centre for Ultrafast Spectroscopy (WCUS) laser facility. This PhD studentship has two central aims: (i) To apply gas- and solution-phase pump-probe spectroscopy to understand photoprotection in natural and artificial UVR filter molecules, and (ii) to develop new instrumentation for studying excited state photochemistry and consequent dynamics in condensed-phase systems. The knowledge gained from these studies may assist in developing next generation UVR filters that are more robust to photodamage. A representative reference from the group’s work is: Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2016, 18, 28140-28149.
Further information about the Stavros group and WCUS can be found at: go.warwick.ac.uk/teamstavros and go.warwick.ac.uk/wcus.
PLEASE NOTE: Although applications are accepted all year round – once a suitable candidate is offered the position the position will close and will no longer be available.
Funding Notes
Applicants should have (or be about to receive) an honours degree (at least II.1 or equivalent) in chemistry or related physical sciences degree. Experience with lasers and/or spectroscopy is desirable. The studentship provides 3.5 years of full funding for UK and EU students, which covers tuition fees and stipend.
Enquires and informal applications should include a CV and be made as soon as possible to Vas Stavros ([Email Address Removed]).
Details on the formal application procedure can be found at http://www.go.warwick.ac.uk/pgapply