Fission studies of neutron-rich nuclei

The RIBF facility at RIKEN in Tokyo, Japan is the world’s leading laboratory in the production and study of the most exotic nuclear systems that we can currently access. The SAMURAI setup in particular is built around a large-acceptance superconducting magnet and exploits nuclear reactions of heavy-ions to probe new quantum phenomena and shed light on unexplored areas of stellar nucleosynthesis. In this PhD project you will optimise and utilise a pioneering method to study the fission of exotic nuclei. Fission properties in these systems will be studied for the first time, advancing our current understanding of r-process recycling. This new investigation on fission of exotic nuclei marks a new generation of experiments in the field. As part of this PhD project, you will spend a substantial amount of time at RIKEN, Japan, where you will participate in the design and setup of the experiment, configure state-of-the-art radiation detectors and utilise large-scale data analysis methods. The experience, skills and networking obtained through this PhD will be a valuable asset for pursuing a career in academia or industry.

The Nuclear Physics group at York

In the nuclear physics group at York, we focus on carrying out world-leading research aimed at the study of the fundamental properties of atomic nuclei and the origin of elements in the cosmos, employing and developing state-of-the-art experimental and theoretical techniques. As well as pursuing fundamental research focusing on key questions at the forefront of the field, we work to develop new techniques in nuclear technology, working closely with industrial partners. We are also strongly committed to our outreach programme, inspiring the next generation of scientists and bringing the excitement of fundamental science to the wider public.