Neutron radiation is a concern for a range of real-world applications, from nuclear security and waste safeguarding through to medical, and nuclear fusion and fission reactor monitoring. At QMUL we have invented organic semiconductor neutron detectors using organic semiconductors that are commonly used in photovoltaic applications and shown that these are of potential use for problems ranging from safeguarding to medical applications, with energy sensitivities from thermal neutrons (about 0.025 eV) up to that of the DT energy level from a fusion reactor (16.5 MeV).
This project builds on our expertise to develop a prototype of a novel neutron calorimeter as a proof of concept that organic semiconductor technology can be used to give information on the neutron energy spectrum. This is a multidisciplinary project that requires the application of chemistry, physics, electronics and statistical methods (unfolding) to collect and interpret data to provide information on the energy spectrum of an underlying source.
Requirements
Application Method:
To apply for this studentship and for entry onto the Physics programme (Full Time), please follow the instructions detailed on the following webpage:
https://www.qmul.ac.uk/spcs/phdresearch/application-process/#apply
Deadline for application - 28th of January 2026
Supervisor Contact Details:
For informal enquiries about this position, please contact Prof. Adrian Bevan.
Email: a.j.bevan@qmul.ac.uk
SPCS Academics: Prof. Adrian Bevan
