Theory of Surface-Enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) in nanoplasmonic structures

When light illuminates nano-sized metallic structures, the free electrons in the metal collectively oscillate, creating `plasmons’. By specifically designing the geometry and arrangement of the nano-metallic structures, one can direct and concentrate light at small enough volumes to enclose even single molecules. Plasmons (or light in general) have the ability to perturb the atoms in a molecule, such that vibrations are induced on the chemical bonds of a molecule. These vibrations are unique for each molecule, and it is a property used in Raman spectroscopy as a fingerprint to identify molecules. Plasmons in such small volumes have unique and unprecedented properties that impact the molecule vibrations.

This PhD project will focus on developing the necessary numerical tools to model and understand this complex interaction between plasmons in small gaps and the molecules’ Raman behaviour. There is already a general methodology developed in the group that the candidate is expected to initially familiarize himself/herself, and ultimately expand to a much more comprehensive numerical tool. The candidate will work very closely with the Nanophotonics group based at the Materials Physics Center in San Sebastian, Spain.

The PhD candidate should have completed (or about to complete) his/her undergraduate degree in Physics (preferably with first class honours or equivalent). The PhD candidate is expected to have keen interest on Electromagnetism and good computational skills. Details of the project will be agreed with the successful candidate to tailor the research to his/her interests.

The project will take place in the Metamaterials Research Centre (www.birmingham.ac.uk/research/activity/physics/quantum/metamaterials/index.aspx) in the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Birmingham, under the supervision of Dr. Angela Demetriadou (https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/staff/profiles/physics/demetriadou-angela.aspx).

In line with the Department’s Athena SWAN programme, we particularly welcome female applicants.

For details of the funding available, advice on making your application or any other informal enquiries, please contact Dr Angela Demetriadou at: [Email Address Removed]

You can apply here: https://sits.bham.ac.uk/lpages/EPS005.htm
clearly stating the title of the project, the Metamaterials Research Centre and the name of the supervisor (Dr. Angela Demetriadou).