A PhD studentship in The Surface Chemistry of Complex Organic Molecules in Space is available from September 2015 in the research group of Professor Wendy Brown at the University of Sussex.

The studentship is for 3.5 years (full fee waiver, stipend RCUK rate). Only full time students will be accepted. The funding is available to UK and EU students only.

This project will use a range of surface science techniques, including reflection absorption infrared spectroscopy (RAIRS) and temperature programmed desorption (TPD), to investigate molecular formation and reaction (thermal and electron and ultra-violet induced) on dust grain analogue surfaces including graphite, water ice and silicates. The experiments will be performed under low temperature and pressure conditions to simulate the environment of star-forming regions. The data obtained will be used to provide data for astronomers that can be incorporated into astronomical models. In particular the thermal, UV and electron-induced processing of complex organic molecules will be studied.

For further information contact Wendy Brown (w.a.brown@sussex.ac.uk) or see our web site http://www.sussex.ac.uk/lifesci/brownlab/

Application details

To be considered for this position, please complete an online application and apply for September 2015 entry.http://www.sussex.ac.uk/study/pg/applying/2015entry

In funding mention sponsored or seeking funding. In Award details mention School of Life Sciences funded studentship. Applications must include a brief statement of interest (up to 2 pages), a CV, two academic references, UG/PG transcripts (if you have already graduated), IELTS results if currently residing in the EU or if you haven’t got a degree from a UK institution.