A PhD position entitled ‘Surface preparation using Novel Ultrasonic Technology’ is available to work with Dr Peter Birkin in Chemistry, at the University of Southampton

Research in Dr Birkin’s group is in the area of acoustic excitation of gas bubbles in liquids. The aim of this project is to develop novel ultrasonic technology (Starstream) with the aim of exploiting this technology in a number of new areas.

Starstream, was developed in the Chemistry department at the University of Southampton in collaboration with Engineering. This technology relies on the activation of gas bubbles in a liquid stream by acoustic energy. The technology is under investigation in a number of areas related to surface cleaning including biofouling and nuclear decontamination. The technology has been designed to use minimal additives, power and water. Electrochemical technology is fundamental to the operation and characterisation of this technology. The PhD is aim at expanding the scope of this technology into other useful areas. This will include investigating the removal of particulate matter from a surface, the effects on electrochemical plating and the destruction of organic species. The project will involve electrochemical as well as imaging experiments (e.g. high-speed cameras etc.). The successful candidate will work as part of a team developing the technology and be expected to address the challenges posed by the technology as well as write reports and present seminars to collaborators and other interested parties.

More details regarding Dr Birkin’s research can be found at www.soton.ac.uk/~prb2/home.htm. Details of the Chemistry Department can be found by following the research and postgraduate links on the School website, www.chem.soton.ac.uk.

This studentship is fully funded for 3 years and, owing to funding restrictions, is only open to citizens of the UK/EU. The studentship includes the standard stipend and full payment of fees.

Applicants should have, or expect to obtain, a first or upper second class BSc, MChem, or equivalent degree in Chemistry, Physics, or a related subject.

Administrative contact and how to apply:

Please complete the University’s online application form, which you can find at:

https://studentrecords.soton.ac.uk/BNNRPROD/bzsksrch.P_Search

You should enter Dr Peter Birkin as your proposed supervisor. Queries on the application procedure should be addressed to pgafnes@soton.ac.uk

Closing Date: Saturday 31 ^ August 2013