PhD studentship with Torr Scientific and University of Surrey
Torr Scientific is offering a PhD programme in collaboration with University of Surrey. The aim of the PhD is to develop and construct a novel compact X-ray monochromator assembly as a proof of concept for subsequent incorporation in an X-ray source for XPS (X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy). Torr Scientific currently manufacture and refurbish the anode components of X-ray sources, involving machining, brazing of dissimilar materials and thin-film coating. This project will help to extend and expand these capabilities.
The researcher will be based in the Technical Department of Torr Scientific at Bexhill‑on‑Sea, East Sussex, on the sunny south coast of England. They will receive an annual tax‑free stipend, topped up beyond the standard sum to £20 000, usually increasing yearly. Course fees will be fully funded.
The researcher will have access to the expertise and instrumentation at University of Surrey. They will become familiar with and competent in XPS, a technique that uses X-ray excitation in vacuum to analyse surfaces of interest. A good knowledge of X-ray physics will be developed, and creative engineering ideas will be needed to deliver the working prototype. Torr Scientific has an excellent relationship with Surrey that has developed over the last fifteen years or so, in particular with the Surface Analysis Laboratory and the Microstructural Studies Unit in the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences. Dr Mark Baker and Prof. John Watts will be the academic supervisors for this project.
Candidates should be permanent UK residents and should have achieved at least an upper second-class (2:1) degree or equivalent in a relevant subject, such as mechanical engineering, physics, materials science or chemistry.
