Probing Molecular Dynamics and Energy Transfer in Chemical Systems using THz Multidimensional Spectroscopy

About the Project

Multidimensional spectroscopy is a powerful family of techniques that unravel complex molecular structure and dynamics by correlating interactions across multiple frequency dimensions. Most commonly encountered in NMR, where 2D and higher order experiments have long been central to chemical and biomolecular analysis, multidimensional methods have more recently expanded into the infrared and ultraviolet regimes, enabling ultrafast tracking of vibrational and electronic processes with unprecedented clarity. Emerging developments have begun to extend these capabilities into the terahertz frequency range, promising a transformative window into low energy motions, collective dynamics, and quantum coherent behaviour in condensed phase systems.

This project with build on the extensive THz facilities that form the THz photonics laboratory here in Leeds and will focus on the continued development of our Terahertz multidimensional instrument which combines and range of high field THz sources to allow pump-probe and full 2D measurements with a bandwidth of up to 10 THz.

In this project you will explore spectral measurements of a range of solid state material and molecular systems including polymorphs of pharmaceutical relevance, spin crossover materials, MOFs, Topological insulators and ferroelectric materials, with these final two being in collaboration with colleagues at the Royce deposition facility here in Leeds. You will probe how low frequency degrees of freedom couple to form energy transfer pathways in these materials and use this to both understand and control materials function using short pulses of THz light. You will also work closely with theoretical colleagues who will aid the interpretation of these complex spectral measurements.

These measurements will provide incite into how a wide range of materials functions and provide crucial information for the future rational design of new functional materials.

The projected start date is October 1st, although a later start date may also be possible.

Funding Notes

A highly competitive EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award Studentship, based in the School of Chemistry, providing the award of full academic fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant of £21,805 per year for 3.5 years. Training and support will also be provided. This opportunity is open to UK applicants only. All candidates will be placed into the EPSRC Doctoral Landscape Award Studentship Competition and selection is based on academic merit.