PhD Studentship: Dynamics driving photoswitchable molecules using laser spectroscopy

Primary Supervisor: Dr. James Bull

A PhD position is available in laser spectroscopy at the University of East Anglia, supervised by Assoc. Prof. James Bull and supported by an EPSRC grant. The project will investigate the excited- and ground-state dynamics of molecular photoswitches, which undergo light-driven structural changes with applications in photomolecular motors, smart materials, and photopharmacology.

The research will examine how molecular structure and environment control photoisomerisation, excited-state relaxation and photochemical efficiency. These dynamics ultimately define light-driven molecular function. Experiments will be conducted in both the gas phase and condensed phase, combining photoisomerisation action (PISA) spectroscopy, time-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy, with condensed-phase ultrafast spectroscopies. Comparing the dynamics in isolated (gas phase) molecules with those in solution will reveal how solvent polarity, hydrogen bonding and viscosity influence excited-state lifetimes, relaxation pathways, branching ratios and photoisomerisation quantum yields.

The project will use custom-built vacuum instrumentation and advanced ultrafast laser systems to characterise molecular isomers, probe short-lived intermediates and uncover the mechanisms underlying photoswitching. Many of the experimental capabilities in our laboratory are unique worldwide, providing opportunities to study reactive species and photochemical processes that are difficult to access using conventional techniques. The ultimate aim is to establish structure-dynamics relationships that guide the rational design of more efficient and functional molecular photoswitches.

The successful candidate will receive comprehensive training in laser spectroscopy, ultrafast experimental techniques, vacuum instrumentation and data analysis, working alongside experienced rearchers.

Further details are available at http://www.eigenket.org/(opens in a new window). Queries and further discussion on the project is welcome.

Entry Requirements

A 2:1 or 1st Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or Physics.

Mode of Study

Full Time

Start Date

1 October 2027

Additional Funding Information

This PhD project is in a competition for a Faculty of Science funded studentship. Funding is available to UK applicants and comprises ‘home’ tuition fees and an annual stipend for 3 years. The current UEA / institutional PhD stipend rate is £21,805 and will be subject to any agreed inflationary uplift for 2027/28.

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