PhD position on gas-phase photodynamic of molecules of astrophysical interest, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Spain

The Chemical Reaction Dynamics and Femtochemistry group (dinalaser.com) at Universidad Complutense de Madrid (UCM) offers the opportunity to perform an experimental PhD thesis with a FPI contract. We are looking for a university student who has recently finished his/her M.Sc. He/She will work on photoinduced dynamics in polyatomic molecules of astrophysical interest. Experiments will be carried out using pulsed nanosecond and femtosecond lasers and velocity map imaging. Extreme ultraviolet (XUV) sources are currently under development and will be employed during the PhD to investigate the photodissociation and photoionization of molecules and radicals.

The successful candidate must hold a Master’s degree in Physics/Chemistry or similar. A strong background and motivation in light-matter interaction and photo-induced molecular dynamics is desired. Previous experience with pulsed lasers and programming skills would be highly valued, although not a pre-requisite.

The PhD thesis will take place within the Chemical Reaction Dynamics and Femtochemistry group at UCM in Madrid (Spain) under the supervision of Profs. Luis Bañares and Sonia Marggi Poullain. The group has an extensive expertise in the study of photodynamics of polyatomic molecules in gas-phase induced by nanosecond, femtosecond to attosecond pulses, as well as synchrotron radiation.

Gross monthly salary: ~1,600 € (14 payments) during the first year (10-15% increase every following year)
Benefits: 4-year contract; +~6500 € grant for tuition and a three-month stay abroad
Enrollment in university PhD program: Universidad Complutense de Madrid

Candidates should send their applications as soon as possible, including an updated CV, a motivation letter as well as contact information of up to three references to: Luis Bañares (lbanares@ucm.es) and Sonia Marggi Poullain (smarggi@ucm.es).