PhD Studentship: Studying the Vibrations and other Properties of ‘Caged’ Molecules

Project title: Studying the Vibrations and other Properties of ‘Caged’ Molecules

PhD Supervisor: David Smith

Supervisory Team: Prof. David Smith- Physics, Prof. Richard Whitby -Chem

Project description

This PhD project will focus on the fundamental molecular and solid-state properties of endofullerenes. These molecules consist of a ‘cage’ in the form of a fullerene (e.g. a bucky ball C60) containing an atom (Kr) or small molecule (NH3). The cage acts to isolate the molecule from its environment allow us to study its properties without perturbations which shorten the lifetime of its excited states and reduce their quantum-like behaviour. In addition, the molecule alters the properties of the host. Thin films of fullerenes, particularly C60, show some extremely interesting properties such as superconductivity and the combination of superconductivity with isolated molecules should lead to exciting new physics.

We will study these materials using a combination of Raman scattering which we have shown can determine the mechanical interactions between molecule and host and femtosecond time-resolved spectroscopy which will allow us to probe the transfer of energy between excited states of the molecules and thus their electronic interactions. We have a fully equipped laboratory with all of the necessary equipment to undertake these measurements including a 12T closed-cycle cryostat, tunable laser sources covering the energy range 1-2 eV, and a triple Raman spectrometer.

At the end of this project you will have developed skills in high-resolution, laser-based spectroscopies, cryogenics and the use of a superconducting magnet, Matlab and other programming languages for computer control of experiments and data analysis, and a good grasp of the fundamentals of solid-state and molecular physics. Previous PhD students from the group have gone on into roles in academia, Raman scattering in biological systems, R&D, e.g. diamond electronics and graphene transistors, high-tech industries particularly defence and patent law. We aim to be a happy, inclusive and welcoming group. Come talk to us to find out more.

Prof. David Smith (dcsmith@soton.ac.uk)

https://www.southampton.ac.uk/people/5wz7j7/professor-david-smith

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: applications should be received no later than 31 August 2023 for standard admissions, but later applications may be considered depending on the funds remaining in place.

Funding: For UK students, Tuition Fees and a stipend of £17,668 tax-free per annum for up to 3.5 years.

How To Apply

Apply online: Search for a Postgraduate Programme of Study (soton.ac.uk). Select programme type (Research), 2023/24, Faculty of Physical Sciences and Engineering, next page select “PhD Physics (Full time)”. In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor David Smith

Applications should include:

• Research Proposal
• Curriculum Vitae
• Two reference letters
• Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk

The School of Physics is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.

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