Positron and Positronium Physics: probing resonances and interference phenomena occurring in positron and positronium scattering - Ref:1637974

A 3.5 year PhD position is available from 1 October 2017 (or sooner) to work under the supervision of Professor Gaetana Laricchia.

Studentship Description:
Much progress in the understanding of the interactions between matter and antimatter has been achieved through studies of controlled collisions of positrons (e+) and positronium (Ps, the short-lived atom made of an electron and a positron) with atoms and molecules. Our team is an international leader in this research and the sole provider of experimental Ps cross-sections at well-defined energies. Studies have now progressed to an exciting new phase where we can search for and inspect subtle phenomena such as quantum interference and resonances. Two recent technical attainments are particularly pertinent to our future plans, namely the realization of a positronium beam tuneable down to energies five times lower than previously obtained, and the development of a new high-resolution positron-beamline apt for inspecting collision dynamics. We plan to exploit these technical advances to probe resonances and interference phenomena occurring in positron and positronium scattering. The overarching aim of the investigations is to aid progress towards a more profound understanding of matter-antimatter interactions in general.

Person Specification:
The successful applicant should expect to achieve a 1 or 2.1 MSci degree in physics, chemistry or related subject.

Candidates should also have excellent written and verbal communication.

Eligibility:
The start date is 1 October 2017 (or sooner). The studentship will cover all university fees and includes funds for maintenance at the standard UK rate and for participation in international conferences and workshops. Due to funding restrictions, this studentship is open only to candidates who satisfy EPSRC eligibility requirements ( i.e. from the UK/EU with 3 years residency in the UK).

Applications should include a motivation statement (250 words max) briefly describing why you would like to apply for this post, a full CV including any publications (2 pages max), transcript of undergraduate (Bachelor) and graduate (Master) studies, and the names, contact details and email addresses of two referees. Applications should be submitted to Professor Gaetana Laricchia [Email Address Removed]

If you have any queries regarding the application process, please contact Khadija Bouzgan, [Email Address Removed] , (+44 (0)20 7679 3943) – HEP/AMOPP

Informal enquiries regarding the vacancy can be made to Professor Gaetana Laricchia [Email Address Removed]