PhD Studentship position in Ultrafast 2D-IR Spectroscopy, University of York, UK (Deadline: 15.02.2026)

2D-IR spectroscopy involves excitation of a chemical sample with an ultrafast IR laser pulse (pump) to excite molecular vibrations, followed by a second IR pulse (probe) to determine which neighbouring functional group the energy is passed on to, thereby enabling non-destructive determination of chemical structure. Varying the time delay between the pump and probe pulses monitors the redistribution of energy throughout a molecule, which could enable elucidation of the structure of true unknown samples via its dynamic fingerprint.

The project will use world-leading 2D-IR equipment at York optimised for high-throughput studies. This instrument measures a 2D-IR spectrum in one minute per sample, from small sample volumes. The project will implement and trial a number of different detection geometries and strategies to further enhance the capability of the instrument.

The student will spend a period of 3 – 6 months at Dstl Porton Down for experiments and training. Training will be given in advanced methods to produce idealised and realistic trace samples via artificial thumbprinting and chemical printing methods for study using the 2D-IR apparatus at York. There will also be the opportunity to acquire FTIR spectral signatures of energetic materials and access to Dstl’s state-of-the-art Quantum Cascade Laser FTIR microscope to acquire spatial chemical maps of the samples.