Applications are invited for a PhD project in experimental nuclear physics. The project is specifically concerned with neutron-capture reactions. The project will focus on two experiments: 207Pb(n,gamma gamma) and 91/93Zr(n, gamma gamma) at the Institute Laue Langevin (ILL) Grenoble in France. (Additional Supervisor: Dr Caterina Michelagnoli (ILL Grenoble, France))
Neutrons will be delivered by the research reactor of ILL and gamma rays will be detected using the Fission Product Prompt gamma-ray Spectrometer (FIPPS). FIPPS is a highly efficient array of and segmented high-purity germanium detectors for gamma-ray detection.
Both experiments address aspects of the octupole degree-of-freedom, which, together with quadrupole deformation, cause the nucleus to adopt a pear-like shape. In 208Pb the focus will be on measurement of the lifetime of a 0+ level at 5241 keV. This state is the best candidate on the nuclear chart for to a member of the double-octupole phonon quadruplet. The extracted B(E3) transition strength will help to determine the character of this level. The zirconium experiment is aimed at the low-energy level scheme of the even-even nuclei 92-Zr and 94-Zr. In this case, the behaviour of low-lying negative-parity states, especially the 3- states, are of particular interest. The experiment aims to establish, whether M1 transitions connecting higher-lying 3- states with the first excited 3- state are due to shape coexistence or are a signature of low-lying octupole isovector states. The latter are characterised by an out-of-phase motion of protons and neutrons. There will be scope within the project to choose the area of focus within these topics.
The expected applicant is expected to be willing to travel and there will be the opportunity to spend a period of one year working in the experimental group at ILL, which will be fully paid as part of the studentship funding. The ILL is a world-class international laboratory in the Rhone-Alps region of France. An extended stay at this laboratory will benefit the successful applicant via an extensive hands-on experience in experimental work and in the opportunity to interact with a diverse multi-disciplinary research community.
Informal enquiries should be made by email to Professor Marcus Scheck: Marcus.Scheck@uws.ac.uk or Professor John Smith: John.F.Smith@uws.ac.uk Applications should be submitted via the UWS online application form.
