Defining the state-of-the-art in X-ray and electron spectroscopies for discerning the characteristic electronic structure of actinide materials

An EPSRC centre for doctorial training sponsored PhD studentship is available to undertake research in the field of actinide X-ray and electron spectroscopy in a collaborative project between AWE and two research groups at the University of Manchester.

There is much interest in the chemical properties of actinide materials and f electron behaviour in terms of their fundamental properties (for example, unusual oxidation states and bonding modes) and relevance to the nuclear sector (for example, materials performance, waste management and nuclear forensics).

Historically experimental access to actinide electronic structure has been challenging. Recent advances in X-ray and electron spectroscopies have resulted new opportunities to advance our knowledge of this fascinating and important area of the periodic table. The recent availability of lab-based X-ray and electron spectroscopies presents a step change in the types of actinide characterisation tools that are available to analytical scientists in the laboratory. In this project you will apply learn how to prepare actinide samples. You will use electrochemistry, deposition and focused ion beam methods to control sample size to reduce sample radioactivity. You will apply X-ray absorption and emission spectroscopies, along with electron energy loss spectroscopy to study a range of actinide materials. This project will make use of both lab-based  methods, national lab user facilities and synchrotron facilities (including, Diamond Light Source, Synchrotron Soleil and the ESRF). The project will advance our understanding of actinide material electronic structure and bonding while also giving insights into how such spectroscopies can be applied to evaluate material aging and corrosion. There will also be opportunities to implement quantum chemical computational methods for the interpretation of actinide bonding and simulation of actinide spectra.

Applicants should have, or expect to achieve, at least a 2.1 honours degree or a master’s (or international equivalent) in a relevant science or engineering related discipline. Students should have an interest in condensed matter physics, physical inorganic chemistry, spectroscopy, computational chemistry and electronic structure. You should be capable of working under your own initiative and working as part of a research team.

The University is committed to Athena SWAN principles to promote women in science; the School’s website documenting activity in this area can be found at: https://www.chemistry.manchester.ac.uk/connect/social-responsibility/. The University will actively foster a culture of inclusion and diversity and will seek to achieve true equality of opportunity for all members of its community.

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