PhD Studentship: Quantum Optimal Control of Quadrupolar Nuclei for Solid State Magnetic Resonance

PhD Supervisor: Dr Marina Carravetta

Supervisory Team: Dr Marina Carravetta, Prof Ilya Kuprov, Dr Matt Potter

Project description The University of Southampton is expanding its PhD research in the area of Quantum Technology Engineering. In addition to the research project outlined below you will receive substantial training in scientific, technical, and commercial skills.

Catalysis is a central process in pharmacology and industrial chemistry that allows sophisticated chemical reactions to proceed with high yield at moderate pressures and temperatures. Catalysts are needed, in particular, for carbon dioxide capture and recycling. However, a common problem is that chemists do not actually know how some empirically discovered catalysts work. One of the ways of finding out is nuclear magnetic resonance - a quantum technology that uses the magnetic moments associated with nuclear spin.

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy of carbon capture catalysts uses atomic nuclei (such as 27Al and 14N) that are not spherical. They are informative, but hard to use because they also have an electric quadrupole moment.

This project will develop quantum control methods that facilitate magnetic resonance with quadrupolar nuclei, with the end goal of improving the catalytic performance of these materials, as well as to advance the corresponding magnetic resonance techniques for other applications. Application of this research will be directed to the investigation of the 14N for amines tethered on porous materials (provided from our collaborator in Bath), which are cutting edge materials for capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, i.e., direct air capture.

This project will develop skills and expertise in quantum theory, quantum control, supercomputing, microelectronics and magnetic fields, and nuclear magnetic resonance.

If you are interested, please contact the supervisor for more information: Marina Carravetta m.carravetta@soton.ac.uk

Entry Requirements

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

Closing date: 31 August 2024.

Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.

Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships.  For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of Southampton  Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

How To Apply

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

Applications should include:

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

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

The University of Southampton is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and 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 to study part time. The University of Southampton takes personal circumstances into account, has onsite childcare facilities, is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.

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