Molecular physics research is directed towards the study of the reactions of charge particles with neutral molecules at low energies. As well as the fundamental aspects of the research, the results have important applications to the physics and chemistry of naturally occurring plasmas, industrial plasmas (such as surface etchant plasmas), chemical lasers, pollutant monitoring, and trace gas detection.
Our research programme provides reaction rate coefficients, and identifies the product ions of ion-molecule and electron-molecule processes. We use the following equipment built at the University: a variable temperature selected ion flow tube instrument to study bimolecular ion-molecule reactions in 0.5 Torr helium under thermal conditions, and an electron swarm instrument, which provides unique data on electron-molecule collisions as a function of mean electron energy in ~1 bar buffer gas.
Our research programmes are greatly expanding the database on the fundamental processes occurring in technologically important plasmas, so that more accurate models of plasmas can be constructed. Simulations resulting from these models will enable opportunities for new developments in plasma processing to be identified.
In addition, we are establishing a multidisciplinary research facility for sensitive and selective trace gas analysis using a proton transfer reaction mass spectrometer (PTRMS). The research programme comprises core activities based in molecular physics, together with a number of collaborative research projects in the areas of detection, atmospheric, medical, and materials science research. As new applications emerge, these will synergistically feed into the core programme of research to develop the PTR-MS and to explore gas-phase ion-molecule chemistry.
Related links
School of Physics and Astronomy
Standard fees apply.
Learn more about fees and funding
Scholarships and studentships
We have a number of studentships supported by the UK research councils EPSRC and STFC available each year, including some CASE awards. These studentships cover the costs of tuition fees and provide a subsistence allowance for 3.5 years. They are available to UK nationals with at least an upper second-class Honours degree from a UK university, or equivalent. Preference is usually given to those holding four-year MPhys or MSci degrees.
We offer about half a dozen postgraduate teaching assistantships each year as top-ups to EPSRC and STFC studentships. There are also substantial opportunities for postgraduate demonstrators. EU nationals may be eligible for fees-only awards, which are occasionally supplemented by the School. Scholarships may be available, for more information contact the School directly or email sfo@contacts.bham.ac.uk.
International students can often gain funding through overseas research scholarships, Commonwealth scholarships or their home government.
Learn more about applying
Apply now
When clicking on the Apply Now button you will be directed to an application specifically designed for the programme you wish to apply for where you will create an account with the University application system and submit your application and supporting documents online. Further information regarding how to apply online can be found on the How to apply pages
Apply now