Exciting Fully Funded Studentship Opportunity at the University of Salford and Paramelt

The University of Salford, in collaboration with Paramelt, is offering a fully funded studentship that promises to enhance your academic career while contributing to cutting-edge industry research.

Overview of the Studentship

Academic Supervisor: Dr. John Proctor  
Academic Co-Supervisor: Dr. Marina Leontiadou  
Industrial Supervisor: Neill Dutton  

This studentship comes with an attractive package, including:

- Tuition Fee Waiver
- Stipend of £19,237 p.a. for 12 months
- Coverage for all bench fees and consumable costs

Application Deadline: 10th December 2024  
Interviews: Date to be confirmed  
 

Start Date: Candidates must be ready to register in January 2025.

Research Description

The Materials and Physics Research Group at the University of Salford has pioneered an innovative all-optical method to directly measure the pressure-volume-temperature (PVT) equation of state (EOS) of fluids and transparent solids. Utilizing a diamond anvil high-pressure cell, this technique combines confocal microscopy and white light interference with a novel analysis method that ensures highly accurate measurements of density and refractive index, achieving less than 3% error at elevated temperatures.

Paramelt, a leading global producer of wax blends and adhesives with over 125 years of experience, is keen to expand its expertise in wax expansion. The company is exploring new applications for its proprietary expansion waxes, which necessitate understanding their behavior under various conditions.

Project Goals

The primary aim of this project is to optimize the new measurement methodology while contributing valuable insights to Paramelt’s research. Key tasks include:

- Evaluating proprietary expansion waxes in both solid and liquid states.
- Measuring volume changes at different pressures.
- Characterizing melting curve paths.

This endeavor not only seeks to refine the accuracy of the novel measurement technique but also aims to result in a publishable research paper.

 Candidate Profile

Ideal candidates should possess:

- A minimum of an upper second-class honours degree in physics or a related discipline.
- Experience with optical spectroscopy, diamond anvil cell experiments, and equation of state measurements on hot fluids is desirable.

Funding Eligibility

This studentship is exclusively available to students with settled status in the UK, as per EPSRC eligibility criteria. For further details, please visit the EPSRC studentships page [here](https://www.ukri.org/councils/epsrc/career-and-skills-development/studentships/industrial-case).

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit the following:

- A current curriculum vitae.
- A supporting statement detailing their interest in the studentship.
- A brief research proposal (maximum 3 pages) outlining the proposed methods to achieve the project aims.

Please send your applications to *m.watts@salford.ac.uk*.

 Enquiries

For informal inquiries regarding the studentship, feel free to reach out to Dr. John Proctor at *J.E.Proctor@salford.ac.uk*.

This is a fantastic opportunity to be at the forefront of research that bridges academia and industry. Don’t miss your chance to contribute to innovative solutions in the field of materials science! Apply before the deadline and take the first step towards an exciting academic career!