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- Tasks: Develop a novel analytical platform using advanced laser techniques for nuclear industry applications.
- Company: Join a leading research team at the University of Liverpool.
- Benefits: Fully funded PhD with a stipend of £26,000 per year and training opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborate with top universities and receive a Postgraduate Certificate in Nuclear Skills.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in nuclear science while gaining valuable skills and qualifications.
- Qualifications: Open to candidates paying UK/home fees with relevant academic background.
The predicted salary is between 26000 - 26000 £ per year.
The aim of this project is the development of an analytical platform based on the combination of laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass-spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) and laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) with multivariate data analysis, for the rapid, cost-effective and waste-free characterisation of solid materials relevant to the nuclear industry and radioactive waste disposal.
The combined use of LA-ICP-MS and LIBS can provide advantages beyond the complementary information that the two techniques can offer. While LIBS gives quantitative and distribution information of light and bulk components, LA-ICP-MS can detect isotope concentrations at ultra-trace levels. However, successful quantification relies heavily on reference materials and suffers from precision limitations due to the heterogeneity of the solid samples.
This project proposes to apply multivariate data strategies that use emission from the solid matrix components for standardisation of data and correlation to the volume of ablated material, to improve the accuracy and precision of quantification. The developed techniques will enable the chemical fingerprinting and spatial distribution of radionuclide species in soils, rocks and mineral phases to investigate the mechanisms of migration of these radioisotopes.
All students funded through the RAPTOR DFA network will be required to undertake 60 credits of training modules as part of the PhD, which will be carried out during the first 3 months of the PhD. Upon completion of the training modules, you will receive a Postgraduate Certificate in Nuclear Skills awarded by the University of Liverpool, in addition to your PhD. During the period October – December 2026 you will be required to spend 1 week at each of our partner DFA Universities at Liverpool, Manchester and Suffolk to attend some of these training lectures. All costs for these visits will be covered by the DFA, and more information about this training will be provided when you apply for the PhD.
The applications are open to candidates who pay UK/home rate fees.
Supervisors: Dr Monica Felipe-Sotelo, Professor Michael Short and Professor Carol Crean
Entry requirements: Open to candidates who pay UK/home rate fees. See UKCISA for further information. Starting in October 2026. Later start dates may be possible, please contact Dr Monica Felipe-Sotelo once the deadline passes. You will need to meet the minimum entry requirements for our PhD programme.
How to apply: Applications should be submitted via the Chemistry PhD programme page. In place of a research proposal, you should upload a document stating that this application is to the RAPTOR Nuclear Skills DFA, the title of the project that you wish to apply for and the name of the relevant supervisor.
Funding: Fully and directly funded for this project only – funding is available for 4 years. Stipend is fully funded at the enhanced UKRI level of £26,000 per year, for 4 years. UK tuition fees are included in the funding offer. RTSG is £5k per year. Funded by RAPTOR Nuclear Skills Doctoral Focal Award.
Enquiries: Contact Dr Monica Felipe-Sotelo
PhD Studentship: Development of a Novel Analytical Platform Combining Laser-based Techniques an[...] in Guildford employer: University of Surrey
Contact Detail:
University of Surrey Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land PhD Studentship: Development of a Novel Analytical Platform Combining Laser-based Techniques an[...] in Guildford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current PhD students or faculty members in your field. They can provide insider info about the application process and might even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to your research interests. We recommend doing mock interviews with friends or mentors to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for the project! When discussing your interest in the PhD, highlight how your background aligns with the research goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly cares.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need to make your submission smooth and easy.
We think you need these skills to ace PhD Studentship: Development of a Novel Analytical Platform Combining Laser-based Techniques an[...] in Guildford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get to Know the Project: Before you start writing, take a good look at the project details. Understanding the aims and techniques involved will help you tailor your application to show how your skills and interests align with what we're looking for.
Be Clear and Concise: When you're putting together your application, keep it straightforward. We want to see your passion and qualifications without wading through unnecessary fluff. Stick to the point and make every word count!
Highlight Relevant Experience: Make sure to showcase any experience that relates to laser-based techniques or data analysis. Whether it's coursework, projects, or previous research, let us know how your background makes you a great fit for this PhD studentship.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application via the Chemistry PhD programme page on our website. It's the easiest way for us to receive your documents and ensures you’re following the correct process. We can't wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Surrey
✨Know Your Techniques
Make sure you have a solid understanding of laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass-spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) and laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS). Be ready to discuss how these techniques work, their advantages, and how they can be applied in the context of nuclear materials. This shows your genuine interest and expertise in the field.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your ability to apply multivariate data analysis strategies. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've used data analysis to solve complex problems. This will highlight your analytical mindset, which is crucial for this PhD project.
✨Understand the Project's Impact
Familiarise yourself with the implications of the research on radioactive waste disposal and the nuclear industry. Be prepared to discuss how your work could contribute to advancements in these areas. Showing that you understand the broader context of your research can set you apart.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions for your interviewers about the project, the training modules, and the collaboration with partner universities. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also your proactive approach to your potential role in the research team.