Research Associate - Particle-resolved studies of nanoparticles: synthesis, crystallisation and vit

A post-doctoral Research Associate will be appointed to work on a research project that will focus on nanoparticles undergoing crystallization and vitrification. Understanding crystal nucleation is a major challenge in condensed matter. Locally heterogeneous behaviour is important to this phenomenon and ascertaining local structure is particularly suited to particle-resolved studies of colloidal model systems. Confocal microscopy accesses comprehensive time-resolved structural information at the level of the constituent particles and is complemented by computer simulation.

 

State-of-the-art techniques have a limited range over which the dynamics that underlie nucleation, in particular rare event sampling, fundamental to fully understanding nucleation, is severely hampered. The project aims to approach crystallisation and the glass transition more closely than has been achieved previously with particle-resolved studies. In particular, direct particle-level visualization novel experimental techniques will reveal nucleation in new dynamical regimes. In particular, subtle changes in higher order structure induced by hydrodynamic interactions will be investigated.

 

You should have or be about to obtain a PhD or DPhil in physical chemistry/chemical physics or physics. Experience in: soft matter, real space analysis, particle-resolved studies, colloid/nanoparticle synthesis, rheology of simple and complex fluids, glass/jamming transition, hydrodynamic interactions is highly desirable.

 

You should have one or more publications; you must have strong communication and interpersonal skills including excellent English language skills.

 

This research is funded through a grant awarded by the European Research Council to Dr CP Royall. The position is available for 24 months from 1^st May 2018.

 

The closing date for applications is 23:59 on Sunday 18 March 2018.

 

We anticipate that interviews will be held during the week beginning 26 March with an anticipated start of the 01 May.

Informal enquiries should be addressed to Dr CP Royall [ chcpr@bristol.ac.uk ].

 

The University is committed to creating and sustaining a fully inclusive culture.  We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and communities.