Time resolved spectroscopy for 21st century materials

Time resolved spectroscopy has become an increasingly important tool in advancing understanding of the interaction of light with matter.

This has recently led to advancements in commercial areas such as LEDs, solar cells, photocatalysis and colourimetric sensors.

Project aims and methods

You will apply state-of-the-art time resolved transient absorption spectroscopic (TAS) methods, combined with high level computational chemistry, to investigate 21st century materials for use in these applications. This will include the use of TAS and computational techniques to guide the rational synthesis of novel phosphors, and to investigate novel tetrazolium-based compounds for use in warfare agent sensing and detection.

Novel iridium-based phosphors developed by Professor S.J.A. Pope (Cardiff University) have demonstrated remarkable spectroscopic properties, including a world-leading ability to efficiently upconvert red visible light into blue high energy light. This property is highly sought after in the development of highly efficient solar cells and photocatalysis.

You will apply spectroscopic techniques typically used in the analysis of small atmospheric species, already in use within the Beames group, to provide an unprecedented understanding of these compounds, and to develop phosphors with increased upconversion efficiency.

Tetrazolium based compounds, developed by Dr. I.A. Fallis (Cardiff University), have been shown to act as remarkably sensitive colourimetric (colour changing) sensors for warfare agents, leading to patented swabs for use on the battlefield.

You will use the same techniques described above to interrogate the reactive intermediates which exist in the colour changing detection mechanism, and will guide the synthesis of new tetrazolium derivatives that exhibit enhanced sensitivity to CWAs, and prolonged shelf-lives (photostability).

Academic criteria

You should have obtained, or be about to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class UK Honours degree, or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK.

Applicants with a Lower Second Class degree will be considered if they also have a master’s degree. Applicants with a minimum Upper Second Class degree and significant relevant non-academic experience are encouraged to apply.

Supervisor - Dr Joseph Beames - https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/people/view/72642-beames-joseph

Application deadline: 14th December 2018
We reserve the right to close applications early should sufficient applications be received.

Start date: 1 January 2019 or 1 April 2019