Can you think outside the box?

Are you a practically-minded problem solver?

Are you willing to work hard to make a real contribution to one of the most advanced imaging technologies currently being developed?

If you can answer yes to these questions, this is the PhD for you.

You will be working on a form of digital imaging in which physical optics are replaced by computer code. The algorithms used act as perfect lenses, with no image degradation from aberrations, and also provide a much more information-rich view of any sample being imaged.

You will be probing the limits of this technique (called ‘ptychography’ in the scientific literature) through experiments using visible light.

You will be exploring extensions to the method that enable imaging in three dimensions and at ultra-high resolutions.  

You will be investigating how the refinements you make and the ideas you develop can be applied to ptychographic imaging using X-rays and electrons. This will include experiments at synchrotrons and using the University of Sheffield’s cutting-edge electron microscopy facilities.

You will be supported by world-leaders in this exciting area of research and become part of a growing team of students and post-graduates based here in Sheffield.

If you are a UK student, your studentship will cover full PhD tuition fees and a tax-free stipend. This is also true for EU citizens who have been resident in the UK for at least three years. Non-resident EU students are not eligible for the stipend. If you are a very well qualified non-EU candidate there may be an opportunity to have a fee-waiver awarded. If you have your own funding you are also encouraged to apply. The studentship can start at the earliest opportunity.

Requirements:

A first-class or good 2:1 honours degree, or a distinction or high merit at MSc level (or international equivalent) in a physical science or engineering subject.

And either:

Practical experience in optics/instrumentation.

OR

Programming experience with a scientific programming language (e.g MATLAB).

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Dr Andrew Maiden, email: a.maiden@sheffield.ac.uk

Please state in the application that you applied via Universitypositions.eu