Master thesis "Creation of an LEIS reference data collection"
IONTOF is a manufacturer of innovative surface analysis instruments with various product lines for Time-of-Flight Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry (ToF-SIMS) and Low Energy Ion Scattering (LEIS).
Founded as a classic spin-off of the University of Münster, IONTOF is today the technological pioneer in the field of ToF-SIMS and LEIS devices. To strengthen our leading position, we would like to give students the opportunity to gain insight into these fields and write a master's thesis.
Description of the activity
Improve the quantification of LEIS spectra and build a collection of reference data:
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Learning the basics and application of LEIS as well as operation of the device, incl. software for device control and data evaluation
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Development and implementation of a measurement plan, including sample selection, preparation, in-situ pretreatment to eliminate atmospheric contamination and analysis under different measurement conditions.
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Data analysis, visualization and structured data storage of measurement results
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Validation of results by using multiple samples and, if necessary, various LEIS devices
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Ideally, preparation of a manuscript for a data-oriented scientific journal (peer-reviewed)
Expected qualification
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Advanced study of materials science, Analytic chemistry, surface sciences or scientific instrumentation
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Ability to learn quickly and in a structured way, to work with attention to detail, both in the laboratory and in documentation
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Interest in the described task and the improvement of an innovative surface analysis method
Our offer
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Intensive training of all aspects of LEIS (ideally as an internship/project work before starting the Master's thesis)
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Insights into a global company in a scientific/high-tech environment
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Responsibility for the project and space for your own ideas
PhD Vacancy: Beyond the mass scale: adding molecule structure to 3D mass spectrometry imaging
Location
Teddington, United Kingdom
Vacancy Type
PhD
Vacancy Basis
Full Time
About the Role
“Going beyond the mass scale: Exploiting state-of-the-art instrumentation to add molecular structure to 3D mass spectrometry imaging”
NPL and collaborators pioneered the revolutionary OrbiSIMS instrument. The instrument has the ability to provide 3D chemical imaging with high specificity and a depth resolution of less than 10 nm and has proven popular in a broad field of applications from organic electronics to drug discovery. A recent NPL study on OrbiSIMS metrology indicated the possibility for separation of molecules based on their shape, stability and kinetics of formation. These promising results indicate that in this manner it is possible to probe secondary features of materials, such as isomerism in organic molecules; this is an important observation as it takes a chemical analysis technique to one which has the ability to provide structural information; going beyond the mass scale.
The University of Surrey Surface Analysis Lab have been active in secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) for over thirty years using the method to unravel the complexities of interface chemistry in adhesive bonds, organic coatings on metals and fibre composite materials. During this time, the Group has collaborated extensively with industry and academia and introduced a number of novel approaches in time-of-flight SIMS (ToF-SIMS) eg methods for discrimination of similar polymeric materials in a coil coating. This project aims to understand the physics behind the phenomena that separates molecules by structure and leverage these to develop innovative methods to study molecules at the micro and nanoscale. Reference metal materials will be used for fundamental studies and organic molecules that are structural isomers will be used for the development of analytical methods. The fundamental studies will be aided by computer simulation of ion paths in electromagnetic fields. The project will make use of two SIMS systems, the standard ToF-SIMS at Surrey and the OrbiSIMS at NPL. The geographical proximity of the two sites will enable ready travel between the two.
About You
Candidates must meet Surrey graduate entry requirements which include holding at least an upper second-class degree or equivalent qualifications in a relevant subject area such as physics, chemistry, materials science, engineering, computer science or applied mathematics. A Master’s degree in a relevant discipline and additional research experience would be an advantage.
About Us
The National Physical Laboratory (NPL) is a world-leading centre of excellence that provides cutting-edge measurement science, engineering and technology to underpin prosperity and quality of life in the UK.
NPL and BEIS have strong commitments to diversity and equality of opportunity, and welcome applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion, or age, providing they meet the required criteria. Applications from women, disabled and black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates in particular are encouraged. All disabled candidates (as defined by the Equality Act 2010) who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview under the Disability Confident Scheme.
At NPL, we believe our success is a result of the diversity and talent of our people. We strive to nurture and respect individuals to ensure everyone feels valued by treating everyone on the basis of their own individual merits and abilities regardless of their own or perceived identity, as part of our commitment to diversity & inclusion, we hold memberships and accreditations to ensure we’re creating an environment where all our colleagues feel supported and welcome, please see our Diversity & Inclusion page.
We are committed to the health and well-being of our employees. Flexible working and social activities are embedded in our culture to create a positive work-life balance, along with a broad range of benefits. Our values are at the heart of what we do, and they shape the way we interact, develop our people and celebrate success.
To ensure everyone has an equal chance, we’re always willing to make reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss, please contact us.
Contact
For more information and the full job description follow this link.
IONTOF is neither responsible nor liable for any details or contents of the third party opportunites.
All corresponding communication has to be made directly with the respective employing institution.
