PhD Studentship: Inelastic Neutron Scattering of Endofullerenes

1 month ago


Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom University of Southampton Full time

Project title: Inelastic Neutron Scattering of Endofullerenes

Supervisory Team: Prof. Malcolm H. Levitt, Prof. Richard J. Whitby, and Dr Stéphane Rols (ILL-Grenoble)

Project description:

Endofullerenes are a new class of materials in which small molecules or atoms are completely enclosed in carbon cages. The encapsulated atoms or molecules behave like "particles in a box" which have their own set of quantum energy levels. In this project, you will be trained in the theory and practice of inelastic neutron scattering (INS), in order to study the quantum properties of these remarkable new materials. The project is a collaboration between the University of Southampton and the Institut Laue-Langevin (ILL) in Grenoble, France. The project is part-funded and co-supervised by the ILL, and you will spend two years of your PhD in Grenoble and 18 months in Southampton. The project is a great opportunity for experiencing high-end collaborative science on an exciting new range of materials with unique quantum properties. The materials will be provided by a separate chemistry team – you will not be expected to perform chemistry lab work yourself. The project will suit you very well if you are attracted to quantum mechanics and spectroscopy, and are eager to experience interdisciplinary science in the beautiful environment of the French alps. For more information on the project, see here: For information on the ILL, see here:

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact Malcolm Levitt, Email:

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent). The degree should be in Physics or Chemistry.

Closing date: 31 August 2024. Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.

Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships. For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of Southampton Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

How To Apply

You should submit your completed online application form by clicking the 'Apply' button above. Select programme type (Research), 2024/25, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select "PhD Chemistry (Full time)". In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor Prof. Malcolm H. Levitt

Applications should include:

  • Research Proposal
  • Curriculum Vitae
  • Two reference letters
  • Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-

The University of Southampton is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking to study part time. The University of Southampton takes personal circumstances into account, has onsite childcare facilities, is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward.



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