SEES MRes Project 2017 entry
Projects available for a September 2017 or January 2018 entry are listed below. The projects
have been divided into the relevant research groups that we have in SEES, which are:
•
•
•
•
•
Crustal Evolution Research Group (Dr Craig Storey, Prof Rob Strachan, Dr James
Darling, Dr Mike Fowler, Prof Randy Parrish, Dr Dean Bullen, Dr Catherine Mottram,
Dr Stephanie Lasalle)
Geomechanics and Environmental Hazards (Dr Andy Gibson, Dr Philip Benson,
Dr Nick Koor, Dr Malcolm Whitworth, Dr Derek Rust, Dr Carmen Solana, Dr Peter
Rowley)
Environmental Processes and Impacts (Prof Jim Smith, Dr Michelle Hale, Dr Gary
Fones, Dr Michelle Bloor, Dr Sarah Reynolds, Dr Adil Bakir)
Palaeontology and Stratigraphy (Dr Nic Minter, Prof Andy Gale, Dr Tony Butcher,
Dr David Martill, Dr David Loydell)
Physics / Applied Physics (Dr Melvin Vopson, Dr Aleksander Krupski, Dr Vincenzo
Tamma, Dr Chris Dewdney, Dr David Franklin)
Crustal Evolution Research Group
New approaches to understanding the growth and structure of kidney stones
Research Area: Geo-bio-chemistry, medical imaging, laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass
spectrometry, urology
Supervisors: Dr James Darling ([email protected]), Dr. Craig Storey, Dr Ben Turney (Oxford Stone
Group) and Mr Stephen Keoghane (Keoghane Urology)
Kidney stones form in the urinary tract and typically contain calcium, dominantly in the form of calcium oxalate
with calcium phosphate being a minor but important constituent. Neither the chemical environment in which
stones precipitate or their internal structure are well constrained, despite regular routine analysis of stones
extracted by surgery. The common method for analysis is bulk measurement of powdered stones by fourier
transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). However, this only provides a basic measurement of chemical
composition and mineralogy and gives no information on the distribution of heterogeneity within the stone.
Advanced electron imaging techniques (scanning electron microscopy – SEM) used routinely by mineralogists
and geologists offer a way of providing new insight into the growth history of stones. Polished sections can be
imaged using powerful range of electron interaction techniques and energy dispersive X-Ray spectrometry
(EDS) can provide micron-scale data on the chemical composition. Furthermore, the growth history and
structure can be further constrained by electron diffraction techniques (EBSD), which provide quantitative
crystallographic orientation measurements. These datasets can then guide more precise measurements of a range
of trace elements down to a few parts per million by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass
spectrometry (LA-ICPMS). This is a routine technique for measuring trace elements in minerals found in rocks,
including calcium phosphate (apatite), which is commonly studied. However, this approach has not been applied
to kidney stones, despite it being an obvious method to provide much better constraints on chemistry and
chemical heterogeneity. This project will use our SEM and LA-ICPMS facilities in the School of Earth and
Environmental Sciences. The work is in collaboration with an academic consultant urologist (Turney) and a
consultant urological surgeon (Keoghane), who will provide samples and help to interpret the data. The
assembled team provide an excellent opportunity to work with experts in method development and kidney stones
and transform our understanding of kidney stone growth. This would suit an analytically-minded student with a
desire to work in a new cross-disciplinary area.
Tracing lithosphere evolution on Earth, Moon and Mars with baddeleyite (ZrO 2) geochronology,
chemistry and crystallography
Research Area: Geochemistry, Crustal Evolution, Planetary Geology
Supervisors: Dr James Darling ([email protected]) and Dr Stephanie Lasalle
Understanding of the magmatic and metamorphic evolution of the crust has been revolutionized by petrological,
chemical and isotopic studies of the robust accessory mineral zircon (ZrSiO4). However, this phase is typically
absent from mafic igneous rocks, making it difficult to directly connect these results with mantle evolution. In
addition, zircon bearing rocks are rare on the Moon and Mars, limiting our ability to understand the geological
history of these planetary bodies from meteorites and Apollo samples. Another accessory mineral, baddeleyite
(ZrO2), provides tremendous opportunities in this regard. It is a common crystallisation product of primitive
mafic magmas and shares many key characteristics with zircon, including robust U-Pb isotope systematics for
geochronology and a resistance to metamorphic alteration. Despite this, understanding of baddeleyite mineral
chemistry and microstructure is in its infancy. This project will develop new understanding of this phase, by the
application of state-of-the-art analytical techniques for chemical, petrological and microstructural analyses of
baddeleyite grains from a wide-range of tectonic settings. These results can then be applied to better understand
lithosphere evolution on Earth and other planetary bodies.
Geochronology of mid-crustal shear zones within the Scottish Caledonides: insights from accessory
minerals
Research Area: Crustal Evolution, Tectonics, Petrology
Supervisors: Dr James Darling ([email protected]) and Prof Rob Strachan
Ongoing research in the Scottish Caledonides is attempting to place age constraints on major ductile shear zones
as a means of further refining tectonic models for this ancient orogen. Which structures relate to Ordovician
accretionary events and which structures formed during the culminating continental collision? A key area of
interest is the Shetland Islands where little modern geochronology has been undertaken. Problems here include
the age of the Wester Keolka Shear Zone in NW Shetland. This has been correlated with the Moine Thrust, but is
completely different in tectonic style and may be significantly older. On the Scottish mainland, no reliable
geochronology has been carried out on the high strain rocks of the Sgurr Beag Thrust. This regionally significant
structure is assumed to be of broadly the same age (Silurian) as the Moine Thrust, but may have reactivated a
pre-existing (Ordovician or Neoproterozoic?) structure. Either shear zone could form the basis of an entire MRes
project, so this research area could sustain several such projects. Each will involve detailed thin section study to
evaluate the microfabrics formed during shear zone development, and identify stable uranium and thorium
bearing accessory mineral phases (e.g. allanite, titanite, monazite). Linking these dateable phases to rock fabrics
and metamorphic assemblages via careful petrology, electron microscopy and mineral chemistry offers a
powerful way to date shear-zone evolution. Geochronology will be undertaken by laser-ablation (LA)-ICP-MS,
placing new age constraints on tectonic models for the Scottish Caledonides.
Linking mineralization and tectonics in the Cornubian Ore Province: new chemical and isotopic
approaches
Research Area: Ore deposits, tectonics, geochemistry
Supervisors: Dr James Darling ([email protected]), Dr Mike Fowler, Dr Dean Bullen and Dr Richard
Scrivener (Consultant)
The Cornubian Orefield in Devon and Cornwall is the most intensely mineralised region in the British Isles, with
mined ore-deposits including W, Sn, Cu, Fe, Pb, As, Mn, Zn, U and Ag. These include the world-class
Drakelands W-mine, which began production in 2015. The opening of Drakelands Mine has highlighted a
number of major gaps in understanding how ore-deposits in the region relate to tectonic and magmatic evolution.
A series of projects are available that will focus on applying new analytical tools for the dating and petrogenesis
of ore-deposits, related intrusions and tectonic deformation in Devon and Cornwall. Many of these projects will
involve working with mining industry partners. The projects will help to refine models for the geological
development of this important terrane, and will inform future exploration models.
The land-ice sources of Ice Rafted Debris within deep sea drill core and the fate of the Greenland Ice
Sheet during the Mid Pliocene Warm Period
Research Area: Ice sheets, climate change, detrital mineral provenance, trace element geochemistry, isotope
geochemistry, laser ablation ICP-MS
Supervisors: Dr Craig Storey ([email protected]), Dr Clare Boston (Geography) and Dr Harold Lovell
(Geography)
Ice rafted debris (IRD) represents grains of continental derived material that have been transported at the base of
land-sourced ice sheets out to the deep ocean, where iceberg melting has resulted in deposition of these grains
within the deep ocean sediments. They thus represent periods within the seafloor stratigraphy where continental
ice was present and able to calve into the ocean and the individual grains come from point sources that may be
tracked with appropriate methods. Deep ocean drill core is available for a variety of areas in the north Atlantic
but only certain cores penetrate deep enough to intersect the Mid Pliocene (3.3 to 3.0 Ma) and have been studied
sufficiently that reliable age models are available. One such core, 907 (east of Greenland and north of Iceland),
has already been sampled and we have a good record of IRD within various levels, including the Mid Pliocene.
This is extremely important, since the Mid Pliocene represents a period of warm climate when the Earth last had
global CO2 levels similar to today. It is considered by many, and reported as such in the 4th IPCC report, as being
an ideal analogue for the potential future fate of our climate. The fact that IRD is present in this part of the
stratigraphy already tells us that some ice was present on Greenland, but what would help to inform coupled
General Circulation Models and Ice Sheet Models would be more precise details on where Greenland was
glaciated. We have developed such a method using Pb isotopes in feldspar grains forming part of the IRD and
here an MRes student would have the opportunity of measuring these feldspar grains using our in-house
analytical facilities. This would be the first analyses from the Mid Pliocene that would hope to provide the detail
required on Greenland’s Ice Sheet and we envisage that a high profile paper would be the result in a journal such
as Nature Geoscience or Nature Climate Change.
Provenance of Cambrian molasse-type successions in the Cadomian orogen of NW France and the
Channel Islands
Research areas: Crustal Evolution, Geochronology, Sedimentology
Supervisors: Prof Rob Strachan ([email protected]), Dr Craig Storey and Dr Nic Minter
The study of detrital mineral suites within molasse successions provides a powerful tool for characterising the
geology of now-eroded or unexposed portions of an orogenic belt. In NW France and the Channel Islands,
alluvial sedimentary rocks of probable Cambrian age were deposited on the eroded remnants of the Cadomian
belt, a late Precambrian accretionary orogen developed around the edge of Gondwana. Palaeocurrent studies
suggest derivation from the west, north and south indicating that the rivers drained contrasting source regions
(Went & Andrews 1990). The project will analyse detrital mineral suites from four separate molasse successions
(Alderney and Jersey in the Channel Islands, and Erquy and Brehec in Brittany). This will enable a more
comprehensive understanding of the Cadomian orogen, much of which is currently either submerged in the
English Channel or obscured by Variscan reworking and/or younger Mesozoic cover. The project would suit an
analytically-minded student interested in crustal evolution, geochronology and sedimentology. The initial phase
of the project would involve some limited fieldwork and sample collection. The main phase of the project would
involve the U-Pb dating of detrital accessory minerals such as zircon and rutile in order to establish the
crystallization history and metamorphic evolution of contrasting source regions both within, and potentially
external to, the Cadomian orogen. The characterisation and dating of detrital rutile potentially derived from highpressure metamorphic rocks formed in subduction zones will be of particular interest as this may shed light on
the location of otherwise cryptic sutures within the orogen. This would involve work in the analytical
laboratories at Portsmouth, in particular using the laser ablation ICP-MS facility to measure U-Pb isotopes and
trace element geochemistry. The results of the project would be of wide interest to geologists interested in crustal
growth and be suitable for publication in an international journal.
Linking mid-crustal migmatites to high-level granites in the Cadomian orogen, Brittany, NW France
Research Areas: Crustal Evolution, Geochronology, Igneous Geochemistry
Supervisors: Prof Rob Strachan ([email protected]), Dr Craig and Dr Mike Fowler
The means by which felsic melts generated at mid-crustal levels during orogeny might then be transported
upwards to feed the growth of high-level plutons is a fundamental issue in understanding crustal growth and
differentiation. The late Precambrian Cadomian orogen of Brittany, NW France provided the basis for a
conceptual model (D’Lemos et al. 1992; D’Lemos & Brown 1993) whereby felsic melts formed in the St Malo
migmatite belt were channelled upwards along steep, strike-slip shear zones to amalgamate as the upper crustal
plutons exposed further east in the Mancellian region. Although much-quoted, this conceptual model has thus far
remained untested by modern geochronological techniques and more sophisticated geochemical modelling. The
project would suit an analytically-minded student interested in igneous petrogenesis, geochronology and
structural geology. The initial phase of the project would involve some limited fieldwork and collection of
samples of: in situ migmatitic melt, syn-tectonic leucogranite sheets in strike-slip shear zones, and upper crustal
granites. The main phase of the project would test the hypothesis that these melts derived from different crustal
levels are broadly of the same age and genetically related. By carrying out U-Pb dating of accessory minerals
such as zircon and monazite it will be possible to establish the crystallization ages of these felsic igneous rocks,
and by examining their trace element geochemistry it will be possible to assess whether or not they could be
genetically related. This would involve work in the analytical laboratories at Portsmouth, in particular using the
laser ablation ICP-MS facility to measure U-Pb isotopes and trace element geochemistry. The results of the
project would be of wide interest to geologists interested in crustal growth and be suitable for publication in an
international journal.
Investigation into magma mixing in Shetland plutons
Research Area: crustal development, geochemistry, petrogenesis; Caledonian orogeny
Supervisors: Dr Dean Bullen ([email protected]) and Dr Mike Fowler
Investigation into magma mixing in Shetland plutons as determined from the trace element chemistry of
accessory phases for example apatite inclusions in hornblende. Field evidence for mixing and mingling between
magmas of contrasting compositions is abundant throughout the plutons west of the Walls Boundary Fault.
Recent age determinations provide a protracted period of magmatism spanning some 40 Ma. The partitioning of
trace elements into apatite can help to shed light on the mixing processes and ultimately the origins of these
Caledonian-era plutons. This would utilise LA-ICP-MS on in situ phases in polished sections, and there are at
least 2 or 3 projects available in this area related to the different plutons.
Major and trace element geochemistry of Shetland Island plutons: origin and relationship to the
Caledonian Orogeny
Research Area: crustal development, geochemistry, petrogenesis, Caledonian orogeny
Supervisors: Dr Dean Bullen ([email protected]) and Dr Mike Fowler
Recent age determinations provide a protracted period of magmatism spanning some 40 Ma further complicating
the proposed origin of these Caledonian-era plutons. This project will utilise XRF and LA-ICP-MS to determine
major and trace element concentrations respectively on a series of samples collected in 2016 to add to an existing
database. Was slab-breakoff the cause of this magmatism, and does this model fit with the regional tectonic
regime?
Investigation into As occurrence in mine waste tailings from copper and tin mining at Devon Great
Consols (DGC) Mine, SW England
Research Area: environmental geochemistry, contaminated land, As flux; bio-accessibility
Supervisors: Dr Mike Fowler ([email protected]) and Dr Dean Bullen
The toxic metalloid As occurs within the various tailings heaps at DGC in various proportions and in various
forms from unprocessed primary sulphides and oxides to stromatolitic and colloidal precipitates. As is sensitive
to changes in Redox conditions within the pore waters of the tailings and can be released into solution and
become bio-accessible. This project would use SEM with EDX and EBSD techniques to determine the mode of
occurrence and concentrations of As-bearing minerals in mine waste tailings from the spoil heaps of DGC Mine.
Where is the As occurring within the tailings, in what form and is it accessible for bio-uptake in the
environment? This is part of an ongoing study that seeks to understand the As flux within the various tailings
heaps. There are at least two projects in this area that can run in parallel looking at different aspects of the same
tailings.
Geomechanics and Environmental Hazards
Fault (re)activation via direct pore pressure injection
Research Area: Geophysics, Fault mechanics.
Supervisors: Dr Philip Benson ([email protected]), Dr Pete Rowley and Mrs Emily Butcher
The issue of fault activation (or re-activation) remains fundamental in Earth science whether in natural systems
or due to human influence. In the case of fluid injection experiments, several well documented cases exist where
previously dormant faults have been reactivated due to nearby fluid injection activities, especially in the case of
geothermal exploration (e.g. the Basel hot dry rock experiment). This project will use the latest in rock physics
and rock deformation systems to conduct a new series of experiments whereby naturally failed and saw-cut
samples, of varying angle, will be reactivated by direct pore fluid pressure (rather than effective pressure) by
high speed fluid injection systems. The rate of change of the pore pressure rise will then be correlated to the
stress and natural permeability of the rock system that otherwise seeks to carry away the pressure front.
Permeability of Hot-Dry-Rock geothermal systems exposed to cyclical pore fluid changes
Research Area: Rock Mechanics, Geophysics, Geotechnics.
Supervisors: Dr Philip Benson ([email protected]), Dr Nick Koor and Mr Stephan Gehne
This project is designed to investigate permeability hysteresis and permeability anisotropy with respect to stress
and pore fluid cycles. Early work suggests that pore fluid pressure cycles has an adverse effect on the bulk
permeability, however this effect is poorly known, and especially with respect to the inherent anisotropy of the
rock mass, and how this is influenced by macroscopic fracture processes. The improved understanding of such
systems had broad implications to applied geosciences that seek to use pore fluids either actively (e.g. gas shale
extraction) or passively (e.g. geothermal energy).
Establishing the glacial history of the Drac Valley, Grenoble France, using glacial sedimentology and
stratigraphy.
Research Area: Geomorphology, glaciology, remote sensing.
Supervisors: Dr. Malcolm Whitworth ([email protected]), Dr Harold Lovell (Geography), Dr
Clare Boston (Geography) and Dr Mark Hardiman (Geography)
The Sinard area, within the Drac Valley, is predominantly underlain by thick and extensive sequences of
glaciofluvial outwash and glaciolacustrine deposits, that have subsequently been incised by fluvial channels.
These sediments are believed to have been deposited during the Würm glaciation (last glacial period), by the
Isère Glacier, and document the formation of a large ice-dammed lake. However, very little research has been
undertaken into the glacial history of the area, and knowledge is limited on how the stratigraphy relates to the
sequence of glacial events, i.e. fluctuations of the ice margin in the Sinard area and the length of time that the
lake was in existence. The focus of this project is therefore to establish a detailed Quaternary stratigraphy across
this region in order to form a better understanding of the landscape history of the area during the last glacial.
Detailed sedimentology will be carried out at key sections, using stratigraphic principles to establish a sequence
of events. This sedimentological work will focus on detailed logging, i.e. structural analysis, combined with
sedimentological analysis, i.e., particle size, clast shape and roundness, to better understand the depositional
processes involved in the emplacement of the sediments. In addition, visible volcanic ash layers which may
have been produced from the Massif Central volcanic centre will also be searched for. If present these may be
used as key isochrons for determining the local sequence of events, as well as adding to our understanding of the
volcanic activity of the Massif Central during the last glacial.
VNIR Spectroscopy for the rapid analyses of fugitive dust
Research Area: Geochemistry
Supervisors: Dr Mike Fowler ([email protected]) and Dr Andy Gibson
Visible Near-InfraRed (VNIR) spectroscopy is a non-destructive technique used for the determination of sample
concentration and mineralogy in a wide range of industries including mineral exploration and pharmacy. This
project will develop techniques to aid the characterization of natural and human derived dusts - an important
element in forensic and indusrial monitoring. Working from our new NIR laboratory, the project will examine a
wide range of existing samples and develop models to measure compositional characteristics of dusts from
VNIR spectra and evaluate their effectiveness as industrial standards. There will be potential for fieldwork to
collect new dust samples and carry out field NIR measurement.
Mixing zones in Debris Flows
Research Area: Physical volcanology, volcanic hazard
Supervisors: Dr Andy Gibson ([email protected]), Dr Malcolm Whitworth and Dr Pete Rowley
Using field and laboratory measurement of Visible Near-InfraRed (VNIR) spectra and geotechnical indices, the
project will explore the relationship between source materials, surface topography and debris flow deposits to
improve understanding of how debris moves, mixes and is deposited in different debris flows. Test sites will be
drawn from locations in the UK and China.
Analysis of a deep-seated inland landslide on the Wight-Purbeck chalk ridge, SW Isle of Wight.
Research Area: Landslides and natural hazard
Supervisors: Dr Derek Rust ([email protected]) and Dr Andy Gibson.
Deep-seated landsliding in chalk is unexpected, even in coastal settings, making the subject of this MRes
research possibly unique in Britain. The work entails detailed field mapping and reconstructions, with volume
estimates and comparisons between the source area and associated debris apron, as well as study and logging of
available exposures at the margin of the apron and, if possible, collection of any available organic material for
14C dating. The overall aim is to critically evaluate and document the landslide, and offer well-supported
conclusions that may help explain this unexpected feature.
Analysis of large-scale landslides displaced along the San Andreas fault in the Big Bend segment,
Transverse Ranges, southern California.
Research Area: Neotectonics
Supervisors: Dr Derek Rust ([email protected])
In the Transverse Ranges the San Andreas describes a strongly curved trace in comparison to linear segments to
the north and south. This 'Big Bend' segment of the fault last ruptured in 1857, producing the largest earthquake
in American history, and is widely regarded as likely to produce the much publicised next 'big one' that may be
'overdue' in southern California. Despite such concerns, within and outside the scientific community, the
behaviour of the fault is poorly understood and, in particular, it is unclear if the 1857 earthquake was typical for
this segment of the fault, and may therefore be the likely scenario for a future event, or exceptional. If typical it
would coincide with the ‘characteristic earthquake’ model that has been proposed for this curved transpressive
segment where frictional resistance to slip increases and which has not ruptured since 1857, resulting in a
conspicuous seismic gap. Alternatively, the ‘uniform slip’ model suggests that tectonic strain release in the Big
Bend is more normally accomplished by a pattern of earthquakes extending from adjacent linear segments,
perhaps coupled with slip on compressional structures within the Transverse Ranges. This model assumes
essentially uniform long-term slip along the San Andreas fault in southern and central California, whereas the
characteristic earthquake model suggests non-uniformity, with larger and more threatening events such as 1857
being typical. Recent re-evaluations of fault-offsets north of the Big Bend in the linear Carrizo Plains segment
indicate a pattern of smaller earthquakes than previously thought, not necessarily linked to fault behaviour
farther south in the proposed project segment, and call into question widely accepted assumptions for estimating
earthquake probabilities along the San Andreas. A key uncertainty is the average rate at which the San Andreas
slips in the Big Bend segment. Slip between the North American and Pacific plates averages about 60 mm a-1
across California, and research on segments of the San Andreas to the north and south of the Big Bend suggests
that the fault accounts for approximately half of this movement. Many other active faults sub-parallel to these
linear segments are likely to accommodate the remaining motion, but such faults are absent adjacent to the Big
Bend segment, and some research suggests that North American-Pacific motion may be more concentrated on
the San Andreas here, increasing the risk of future large earthquakes like the 1857 event. Transpression in the
Big Bend produces strong tectonic uplift adjacent to the San Andreas fault, setting the scene for numerous deepseated landslides, many probably triggered by past earthquakes. The MRes project has the aim of analysing a
time-series of such landslides derived from a single mountainside and subsequently displaced laterally by
varying amounts along the San Andreas, and complements recent field research and 14C dating of one key
landslide in this series. The analysis will involve creation of a high-resolution digital elevation model (DEM) of
the mountainside source area and fault-displaced landslide toe regions, which exhibit varying degrees of
erosional degradation with age and offset amount. The DEM will be based on high-quality aerial photograph
coverage of the area, at scales of 1:12000 and 1:6000.
Investigating fractal behaviour at a ridge-transform triple junction, subaerial mid-Atlantic ridge, N
Iceland
Research Area: Tectonics, structural geology
Supervisors: Dr Derek Rust ([email protected]), Dr Malcolm Whitworth, Dr Fabio Bonali and Prof
Alessandro Tibaldi (University of Milan-Bicocca).
The Northern Volcanic Zone, part of the mid-Atlantic ridge system that crosses Iceland, is intersected by the
right-lateral Husavik-Flatey transform fault, producing a remarkable subaerial exposure of deformation features
normally obscured within the oceanic realm. Moreover, the structures are primarily developed in an extensive
sheet of ~12 ka pahoehoe lavas, forming a tabula rasa that provides a uniquely preserved long-term record of
subsequent structural evolution and interactions at this triple junction. These fortuitous circumstances, coupled
with only minor vegetation development, create a unique research opportunity. The triple junction itself
occupies an area of only ~1 km2, and contains innumerable fault features displayed in exquisite detail. To
document this detail high-resolution imagery has been obtained from a low-altitude GPS-controlled drone
survey, and preliminary analysis indicates a repeating Riedel-in-Riedel structural pattern in the transform, for
both R-shears and R’-shears, at different scales. The aim of the MRes project is to document and analyse this
apparent fractal behaviour, particularly at the very large scales made possible by the high-resolution imagery.
It is hoped the MRes student would be interested in collaborating, as first author, to produce a journal article
from this project.
Modelling strain partitioning across compressional mountain belts.
Research area: Tectonics, seismology, rock-physics
Supervisors: Dr Derek Rust ([email protected]), Dr. Philip Benson and Dr. Tom Mitchell (UCL).
Geological studies in compressional mountain belts such as the Tien Shan and Caucasus identify both active
thrust faulting and active strike slip faulting. In the Tien Shan strike slip faulting appears concentrated on a
single structure, the Talas-Fergana fault, that obliquely transects the mountain belt, at an angle that possibly
conforms to that predicted by failure planes in rock samples compressed in rock mechanics experiments. In the
Caucasus strain appears more distributed, with strike slip faults being shorter and more numerous, perhaps acting
as conjugate structures, some with tear fault affinities. Such geological observations are increasingly compared
to a growing body of GPS data, particularly in the Tien Shan, although the comparison, involving vastly
different time scales, raises many questions. The MRes project aims to shed light on strain accommodation in
such mountain belts, particularly its distribution between structures with differing orientations and possible
affinities, and to suggest ways in which geological and GPS data may be reconciled. The project will involve
designing, constructing and running a series of appropriately constrained model experiments, using rock
mechanics equipment and analogue materials such as Plexiglas.
Active three-armed rifting in ocean-island volcanoes.
Research Area: Volcanology, Structural geology
Supervisors: Dr Derek Rust ([email protected]) and Dr Carmen Solana
Three-armed rifts are a common response to updoming at volcanic centres, and several examples occur in oceanisland volcanoes, such as Tenerife and El Hierro in the Canary chain. Derek Rust and Carmen Solana have field
data on the rifting in El Hierro and the MRes project would examine these results in the context of such rifting
worldwide. The project aim would be to identify common patterns and mechanisms associated with this style of
rifting. The project would involve an extensive desk study of such islands around the world, coupled with
remote-sensing investigations, using Google Earth where higher resolution imagery is not readily available.
It is hoped the MRes student would be interested in collaborating, as first author, to produce a journal article
from this project.
Active tectonics of intermontane basins, with examples from the Tien Shan mountains, central Asia
Research Area: Neotectonics
Supervisors: Dr Derek Rust ([email protected])
Large actively deforming basins may be unexpected within compressional mountain belts such as the AlpineHimalayan and undoubtedly have multiple origins. The MRes project will focus on two such basins within the
Tien Shan mountains, the Ketman-Tyube basin and the Issyk-Kul basin. Derek Rust has field data from these
basins, including an unexpectedly young 14C date from part of a thrust duplex now inactive and superseded by
the presently active thrusting, a logged section through the duplex, and some 1:40000 stereo aerial photograph
coverage. The MRes project would integrate the field results with a remote sensing analysis and map of evidence
for active tectonic deformation, both within the basins and around their margins, with the aim of identifying the
structural regime in operation. Further useful insights may be gained from comparisons with another
intermontane basin studied by Derek Rust, the Pasinler basin in eastern Turkey.
It is hoped the MRes student would be interested in collaborating, as first author, to produce a journal article
from this project.
Breached landslide - lacustrine deposit assemblages in the central Tien Shan mountains, including the
Kara-Su valley, Kyrgyzstan.
Research Area: Neotectonics, Seismic hazards, Uranium waste hazards.
Supervisors: Dr Derek Rust ([email protected]), Dr Richard Teeuw and Prof Jim Smith
The 2008 Mw 7.9 Wenchuan earthquake in Sichuan, China, on the eastern margin of the Tibetan plateau, was
remarkable for the very large number of landslides it triggered, producing innumerable landslide-dammed lakes.
As an index, 32 of these lakes were considered sufficiently threatening, to communities downsteam, that the
Chinese authorities mobilised army engineers to prematurely breach the landslide dams using explosives. This
event can serve as a model for the consequences of a large earthquake in the Tien Shan mountain range, an area
of strong contractional GPS rates (~20 mm a-1) and uplift associated with India-Eurasia collision. On the ground
in the central Tien Shan there is ample evidence for both current and past landslide-dammed lakes, notably in the
Kara-Su valley. This valley is developed along the Talas-Fergana fault, a major strike-slip structure transecting
the mountain range, and displays several examples of breached landslides, each preserving lacustrine deposits
upstream that were deposited during the time period the lake dammed by the landslides were in existence. Derek
Rust has field data from this valley, including a logged section through one lacustrine sequence, together with
associated 14C dates.
The MRes project would incorporate these field results in a wider study of these distinctive breached landslide –
lacustrine deposit assemblages in this seismically active region, with the aim of documenting and analysing their
occurrence, and shedding light on the controlling factors. This work would be based on a remote-sensing
analysis of satellite imagery using algorithms designed to recognise the characteristic landscape elements
produced by these assemblages.
One final aspect of this work concerns radioactive waste dumps, a legacy from the Soviet era when this region
supplied and processed uranium ores used in the Cold War. The hazard posed by these poorly sited and
unmaintained dumps is widely recognised and some remediation efforts have been conducted using World
Health Organisation and World Bank money. The MRes project could contribute to the prioritisation of these
scarce financial resources by identifying, on a catchment-by-catchment basis, where data on naturally occurring
radionuclide levels could be obtained from the sedimentary records of suitably sited lacustrine deposits.
It is hoped the MRes student would be interested in collaborating, as first author, to produce a journal article
from this project.
Tectonic and volcanological comparisons between the world’s two subaerial ridge-transform triple
junctions, Iceland.
Research Area: Structural geology, Volcanology.
Supervisors: Dr Derek Rust ([email protected]) and Dr Malcolm Whitworth.
The Mid-Atlantic Ridge is uniquely exposed above sea level as it transects Iceland, where it displays two ridgetransform triple junctions, one in the north and the other in the south of the country. Derek Rust and Malcolm
Whitworth have very detailed drone imagery and field structural data from the northern triple junction and the
MRes project would involve comparing these results, possibly augmented with additional volcanological
information, with the southern triple junction. The project aim is to identify possible similarities and contrasts
between the two triple junctions that would contribute to understanding these features, which, in the submarine
realm, are commonplace but inaccessible. Much of the project can be completed by a desk study and remote
sensing investigation, although some fieldwork would undoubtedly be helpful.
It is hoped the MRes student would be interested in collaborating, as first author, to produce a journal article
from this project.
Application of 3D printing in the investigation of the shearing behaviour of rock discontinuities
Research area: Rock mechanics; geotechnics; rock engineering
Supervisor: Gareth Swift ([email protected])
In order to undertake stability analysis in rock mechanics, an understanding of the shearing behaviour and
strength of pre-existing discontinuities within the rock mass is a key requirement, in order to establish whether
sliding will or will not occur. It is well known that this resistance and behaviour will be strongly influenced by
the surface characteristics, including roughness caused by the presence of asperities at a range of scales. The
shear strength can be measured directly in the field or in the laboratory on representative samples or, it can be
estimated based on empirical correlations founded on the work of Barton (1973), for example. The aim of this
current work is twofold; firstly, the research aims to establish whether 3D printing technology (additive
manufacturing) is a viable method of reproducing discontinuities in a controlled manner which allows the
surface features of discontinuities present at a range of scales, to be effectively controlled and isolated, such that
their influence on behaviour and strength can be quantified. Secondly, the research aims to examine whether
scanning and printing can be integrated to allow discontinuities in the field to be replicated in the laboratory for
testing, without the need for direct sampling. A key challenge within this research relates to the printed material
strength and deformability; it is known, for example, that the intact rock strength has an important influence on
the shearing characteristics of a discontinuity, especially at high normal stresses, where asperities may be
‘sheared’ directly, whereas rock stiffness has less influence. However, if material stiffness is low, significant
deformation could occur, leading to unrealistic shearing behaviour.
Environmental Processes and Impacts
Investigation into the origin, fate and impact of microplastics in the Solent region
Research Area: Marine Environmental Chemistry and Water Pollution
Supervisors: Dr Adil Bakir ([email protected]) and Dr Gary Fones
Plastics are extraordinarily useful materials due to their high malleability and durability together with being both
lightweight and inexpensive. However, their longevity is resulting in substantial accumulation of plastic in the
aquatic environment. Microplastic fragments (200-250 µm) are now one of the most abundant types of debris.
The sources of microplastics include direct inputs of microplastic sized particles, such as microbeads used in
cosmetics and pre-production pellets (primary sources) and fragmentation of larger items (secondary sources).
This project aims to investigate occurrence of microplastics in sediments and surface waters for some selected
rivers and estuaries in the Solent region and investigate sorption and desorption rates of selected metals and
organic pollutants onto and from microplastic particles.
Ecotoxicological impact of sildenafil (Viagra) on the freshwater environment
Research area: Ecotoxicology
Supervisor: Dr Michelle Bloor ([email protected])
Use of sildenafil (Viagra) supplied illicitly prevails over use of legitimately prescribed drug in the Netherlands,
researchers warn in a letter to The BMJ[1]. The team measured levels of sildenafil, used to treat erectile
dysfunction and pulmonary hypertension, and its metabolites in wastewater at sewage treatment plants serving
Amsterdam, Eindhoven and Utrecht and compared these data to dispensing behaviour in the catchment area.
Between 61% and 79% of the drug contained in wastewater could not be explained by legitimate dispensing and
is primarily illicit. The consumption of illicit erectile dysfunction drugs might dwarf the consumption of the
legitimately dispensed versions, say the authors, and call for further action against the thousands of “rogue
online pharmacies”. This MRes project will investigate the ecotoxicological impacts of sildenafil on the
freshwater environment. An acute and sub-lethal toxicology testing regime will be deployed, in order to
determine the environmentally safe concentrations of the drug that will not impact the long-term integrity of a
freshwater ecosystem.
[1]
B. J. Venhuis, P. de Voogt, E. Emke, A. Causanilles, P. H. J. Keizers. Success of rogue online pharmacies:
sewage study of sildenafil in the Netherlands. BMJ, 2014; 349 (jul01 9): g4317 DOI:10.1136/bmj.g4317
Ecotoxicological impact of generic and branded pharmaceuticals on the freshwater environment
Research area: Ecotoxicology
Supervisor: Dr Michelle Bloor ([email protected])
Pharmaceutical research mainly investigates the efficiency of the active ingredients, however the excipients are
what holds the compound into a desired form and influence the product’s function, such as release rate, stability
or absorption rate. Pharmaceuticals are available as branded and generic drugs. Generic drugs are bioequivalent
to the branded version, but are cheaper in price. The main difference is that the generic drugs are packed with
different types of excipients. This MRes project will investigate the ecotoxicological impacts of branded and
generic pharmaceuticals on the freshwater environment. An acute and sub-lethal toxicology testing regime will
be deployed, in order to determine the environmentally safe concentrations of the drugs that will not impact the
long-term integrity of a freshwater ecosystem.
Using Fast Repetition Rate Fluorometry to better understand algal response to light and nutrients.
Research Area: Freshwater Ecology
Supervisors: Dr Michelle Hale ([email protected]) and Prof Jim Smith
UK rivers regularly suffer problems associated with water stress and algal blooms. It is estimated that
eutrophication costs the UK £114 million per year, and problems of excessive algal growth and increasing
cyanobacterial dominance are predicted to get worse under future climate change scenarios.
The University of Portsmouth and Centre for Ecology and Hydrology (CEH) have developed a Fast Repetition
Rate Fluorometry (Frrf) technique for measuring photosynthetic stress in chlorophytes – the first ever
application to rivers. To understand the controls on cyanobacterial blooms and their associated toxins, there is a
need to monitor how photosynthetic efficiency is affected under different environmental conditions, including
under changing levels of nutrients (particularly nitrogen and phosphorous).
In the proposed project, in collaboration with Southern Water, we aim to deploy a Frrf in the River Itchen to
better understand the controls on both algal and cyanobacterial blooms in the river (timing, duration and
magnitude). Our aim is not only to improve knowledge of this key issue for water resources, but to develop an
“early-warning system” for water companies and regulators to better manage problematic algal blooms.
How long will the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone remain contaminated?
Research Area: Environmental Radioactivity
Supervisor: Prof Jim Smith ([email protected])
The Chernobyl Exclusion Zone (CEZ) covers approximately 2000 km2 of land in Ukraine (and a similar extent
in Belarus). The level of radioactive contamination reaches > 10 MBq m-2 within the near zone which is also
contaminated with 90Sr and transuranium isotopes. However, the contamination level varies widely and very
significant areas are much less contaminated, at levels below 500 kBq m-2. With appropriate monitoring and
countermeasures, it is it is possible that some parts of the CEZ could possibly be returned to agricultural use.
The aim of the proposed project is to develop a GIS system to evaluate the potential for future agricultural use of
contaminated lands in Ukraine. Digital maps of land use and contamination are currently available for the
Ukrainian sector of the Exclusion Zone. In the proposed project, these would be updated to account for physical
decay and removal of radionuclides, and soil-plant transfer models would be applied to predict potential
radioactive contamination of crops grown in different parts of the Zone. This research would support
collaborative work between UoP, the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Institute and the Chernobyl Ecocentre on
this issue.
Phosphorus speciation in shelf sea sediments
Research Area: Biogeochemistry
Supervisors: Dr Sarah Reynolds ([email protected]) and Dr Gary Fones
Using sediment samples collected during the UK led NERC funded Shelf Sea Biogeochemistry (SSB)
programme, this project will focus on examining the phosphorus speciation of differing sediment types across a
seasonal cycle. Using the SEDEX method following Ruttenberg et al. (1992) and Anderson and Delaney (1999),
the samples will be analysed using ICP-OES. This project will allow for greater insight into the dynamics that
govern sediment biogeochemistry and will compliment the already vast data set of the SSB programme. The
student will gain a strong grounding in analytical chemistry techniques with access to the UPGEL facilities and
training by Dr. Sarah Reynolds.
Small-scale variability of microzooplankton grazing
Research area: Marine microbial ecology
Supervisor: Dr Michelle Hale
Microzooplankton are major grazers of phytoplankton biomass, grazing on up to 77% of primary production in
marine systems. However, little is known about the small-scale spatial and temporal variability of
microzooplankton grazing, with values obtained from single experiments often integrated over time and space.
The aim of the proposed project is to use dilution assays to determine the small-scale temporal and spatial
variability of microzooplankton grazing in a coastal system.
Anti-microbial resistance in metal-polluted sediments.
Research area: marine microbial ecology; antimicrobial resistance
Supervisors: Dr Michelle Hale and Dr Joy Watts
Since their industrial production for therapeutic use in the 1930s, antibiotics have been first-line treatments for
bacterial infections, saving millions of lives. However, through antibiotic use and misuse, and waste water
contamination, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes are now ubiquitous in the environment, although little is
known about the prevalence of AMR in the marine environment. Heavy metals such as Cu, Cd, Zn, Cr, Ni and
Co, often found in industrialised harbours, are known co-selective factors for AMR in bacteria in soils, water
and sediments, and promote horizontal transfer of AMR genes and increased antimicrobial resistance. The aim
of this project is to investigate the occurrence of AMR bacteria in sediments in Portsmouth Harbour, where high
concentrations of heavy metals such as Cu (154 – 1212 mg kg-1) and Zn (77 – 330 mg kg-1) have been routinely
measured.
Palaeontology and Stratigraphy
Laser-stimulated fluorescence in palaeontology
Research Area: Palaeontology, Applied Physics.
Supervisors: Dr Anthony Butcher ([email protected]), Dr Esmaeil Namvar and Dr David Loydell
A newly-published technique has provided proof-of-concept case studies for the application of laser-stimulated
fluorescence (LSF) in the fields of palaeontology and archaeology. LSF has allowed for features of specimens to
be revealed that were not previously visible through traditional ultraviolet fluorescence. The relatively low cost
of the technique, relying primarily on short-wavelength lasers and photographic filters, means that it has great
potential to be employed as a routine tool for fossil analysis. The project will involve working closely with
palaeontological research staff to identify and analyse exceptional specimens within our collections, trialling
different combinations of lasers and filters - there is great potential for revealing previously unseen detail on
these specimens, leading to interesting and potentially high-profile publications.
Physics / Applied Physics
Plasma sputtering and characterization of flexible FeMn/NiFe exchange bias nano layers
Research area: Physics, Condensed Matter, Applied Physics
Supervisor: Dr Melvin Vopson ([email protected])
The exchange bias is an effect that occurs at the interface between ferromagnetic / anti-ferromagnetic nano films
and it is defined as the shift in the magnetization curve of the ferromagnetic layer to positive or negative fields
due to the quantum exchange interaction at the interface between the ferromagnetic and anti-ferromagnetic
layers. The effect has huge importance for technological applications, especially in the magnetic data storage
industry where it is utilized to the fabrication of magnetic recording read head sensors. The aim of this project is
to successfully fabricate flexible FeMn(t1)/NiFe(t2) exchange bias structures using thin films plasma sputtering
deposition of nano films onto flexible substrates. The samples will be experimentally characterized in terms of
the induced exchange bias field using advanced optical magnetometry. The objective is to eventually optimize
the thicknesses t1 and t2 so that the largest exchange bias field is achieved for these compositions and to
determine the effectiveness of the effect when flexible substrates are utilized.
Theoretical investigation of the relationship between melting point and Debye temperature in solids
Research area: Physics, Condensed Matter, Applied Physics
Supervisor: Dr Melvin Vopson ([email protected])
The melting point of a solid material is an important parameter which is easy to determine experimentally by
heating a given specimen until the solid-to-liquid phase transition is triggered at atmospheric pressure. The
theoretical formula predicting the melting point is derived from the well-known Lindemann melting criterion.
This is a classical thermodynamic approach which makes use of the observation that the amplitude of phonon
oscillations within the crystal increase with temperature. Lindemann postulated that melting occurs when the
amplitude of phonon vibrations are large enough for neighbouring atoms to occupy the same space.
Debye temperature is a more abstract concept defined as the equivalent temperature at which the highest phonon
mode of vibration in a crystal is excited. The Debye temperature is expected to be closely linked to the melting
point formula. The aim of this project is to explore the theoretical relationship between the Debye temperature
and the melting point in Lidenmann’s framework in order to advance our understanding of the Physics of these
processes and to test the relationship against literature data.
Measurement of time and thermal effects on polarization dynamics in ferroelectric systems
Research area: Physics, Condensed Matter, Applied Physics
Supervisor: Dr Melvin Vopson ([email protected])
Polarization dynamics have been extensively investigated experimentally and theoretically in normal
ferroelectric materials, due to the recent interest in ferroelectrics for applications in memory devices such as
Ferroelectric Random Access Memory (FRAM). FRAM is a non – volatile memory device, which contains a
ferroelectric thin film as a memory cell and uses the remanent directions of the polarization to store the data as
logical “0” and “1”. It is well known that a ferroelectric material in a relaxed state forms domains with
polarization aligned accordingly to minimize the electrostatic energy. The experimental evidence suggests that
when an electric field is applied to a ferroelectric material, the reversal does not occur via a spontaneous
reorientation of the polarization in a domain at once, but rather through nucleation of domains and the movement
of domain walls, which subsequently expand and grow at the expense of the existing domains. One of the
pioneering theoretical models of the polarization switching is the Kalmogorov-Avrami-Ishibashi (KAI) domain
nucleation-switching model (and variants of it), which treats polarization reversal as a nucleation process and it
has been derived from the original Avrami nucleation model of crystal growth. Recently, a non-equilibrium
polarization-switching model, which overcomes the limitations of the KAI model or other variants of it, has been
developed in order to investigate the switching kinetics of ferroelectric as a function of the applied electric field,
time and temperature, simultaneously. However, the newly developed model has been derived and
experimentally tested for second order phase transition ferroelectrics. The aim of this project is to experimentally
test the applicability of the original non-equilibrium polarization-switching model to second order phase
transition, as well as to first order phase transition ferroelectric materials. The experimental validation of the
model to first order phase transition ferroelectrics will confirm that the theory is fully applicable to all
ferroelectric materials of commercial importance.
Development of an optical non-contact magneto-resistance testing instrument
Research area: Physics, Condensed Matter, Applied Physics
Supervisor: Dr Melvin Vopson ([email protected])
Spintronic devices are a special class of multi-functional materials in which both the charge and the spin state of
the electron affect device functionality. When spintronic materials are combined with thin film nano-fabrication
technologies, complex spintronic sensors, logic components and digital memory elements can be created. There
are a few different types of spintronic materials: giant magneto-resistive (GMR), anisotropic magneto-resistive
(AMR) and tunnelling magneto-resistive (TMR). However, they all exhibit a common property, magnetoresistance (MR). Magneto-resistance measurements are traditionally performed using an electrical 4-point probe
instrument. However, electrical contact measurements are not always suitable as the electrical probe contacts can
damage or contaminate the sample surface. In addition, the measurements can be difficult to perform in situ and
require additional preparation steps. An optical non-contact measurement of magneto-resistance is therefore
highly desirable. Infrared (IR) measurements of the magneto-resistance have been previously reported and they
are based on the IR magneto-refractive effect (MRE) first proposed in 1995. The first measurements were made
using an IR Fourier Transform Spectrometer in reflection geometry to study a range of spin valve and GMR
systems. Single wavelength experiments using IR CO2 laser more closely mimicked an electrical GMR
measurement. The aim of this project is to experimentally design, build and test an MRE optical system for noncontact magneto-resistance testing of spintronic materials using an infrared CO2 laser as optical source.
Studies of ferroic domain structures using magnetic force and piezo-electric force microscopy
Research area: Physics, Condensed Matter, Applied Physics
Supervisor: Dr Melvin Vopson ([email protected])
Electrically and magnetically ordered solids minimize their internal electrostatic and magnetostatic energy by
forming complex domains separated by domain walls. The structure of these domains, their shapes and stability
depend strongly on the sample thickness, shape, size and external factors such as applied fields and temperature.
Understanding the relationships between intrinsic and extrinsic factors affecting the ferroic domains is essential
to design applications of these materials with optimal functionality. Domain engineering is an emergent field of
research effectively studied via a range of techniques. Given the reduced dimensions of the domains ranging
from microns to nano-meters, most of the techniques deployed to their studies involve some form of microscopy.
The aim of this project is to use an Atomic Force Microscope in magnetic force and piezo-force scanning modes
to image magnetic and ferroelectric domains in various ferroic and multiferroic samples subjected to external
variations such as applied fields or temperature gradients. Sample surface topography maps, ferroelectric and
magnetic domain maps will be acquired with nano-resolution in order to understand the relationship between
their macroscopic and microscopic physical properties.
Magnetic and magneto-transport properties of thin film structures containing diamagnetic nano-layers
Research area: Physics, Condensed Matter, Applied Physics
Supervisor: Dr Melvin Vopson ([email protected])
The emergence of thin film multi-layer hetero-structures containing tri-layer ferromagnet / non-magnet /
ferromagnet, or bi-layer ferromagnet / anti-ferromagnet have led to the discovery of interesting magnetic and
transport effects such as giant magneto-resistance, tunnelling magneto-resistance, oscillatory exchange coupling
and exchange bias effect. These are closely related to the quantum effects that occur at these reduced dimensions
where constituent thin films are in the range of a few nano-metres to a few tens of nano-meters. In this project
we aim to explore a new kind of structures that have never been studied before, namely multi-layers containing a
combination of ferromagnetic, antiferromagnetic and diamagnetic layers. Diamagnetic materials are interesting
because they are the only materials known to display negative magnetic susceptibility. The fact that diamagnets
repel magnetic flux lines, it is explored in this study in which we wish to explore the effect of diamagnets on
spin conduction at nano-scale as well as on the magnetic properties of a range of hetero-structures. The project
will involve plasma sputtering deposition of these structures and their experimental testing.
Quantum Tunneling: An investigation of the numerical solution of the Schroedinger equation with timedependent potentials
Research area: Physics, Condensed Matter, Applied Physics
Supervisors: Dr Chris Dewdney ([email protected]), Dr Melvin Vopson ([email protected])
The method of numerical solution of the time-dependent Schroedinger equation is well known. The first step
will be to implement the solution in MATLAB. Given a successful implementation the program will then be
used to study the time evolution of a variety of quantum systems under the influence of time-dependent
potentials. The results will be compared with the predictions of the time-dependent perturbation theory for the
same systems. Having established the computational techniques the work will be applied to the study of the
propagation of electrons in nanomaterials subject to barrier tunneling with a time dependent potential barrier.
Quantum tunnelling magneto-resistance (TMR) effect is a well-known quantum effect that has been
demonstrated experimentally and theoretically. The effect is currently applied to advanced magnetic field
sensors and it is an essential component of the magnetic recording read head in hard disc drives. The effect
hinges on the fact that quantum tunnelling probabilities of conduction degree of freedom to the TMR effect,
because the quantum tunnelling takes place through a time dependent dynamic tunnelling barrier. are strongly
dependent on the physics of the tunnelling barrier and the electrodes. (Melvin Vopson will advise on the TMR
effect.)
Weak measurements of momentum on cold atoms in an atom interferometer: the de Broglie-Bohm
approach
Research Area: Quantum Physics, Solid-State Physics, Magneto-Resistance
Supervisors: Dr Chris Dewdney ([email protected]), Prof Basil Hiley (Birkbeck College)
The concept of weak measurements in quantum systems was introduced by Aharonov, Albert and Vaidman, to
explore fundamental quantum processes and for quantum metrology. Weak measurements provide information
about a quantum system but are very different to the strong (usual) projective measurements. Kocsis et al. used
weak measurements of photon momentum to reconstruct average trajectories of photons. Strictly speaking one
should not talk in this instance in terms of photon trajectories as the results have a straightforward interpretation
in terms of classical optics and energy flows. This project will explore the theory of truly quantum mechanical
matter-wave interferometers that may be used to perform weak measurements of the momentum of atoms in
order to construct the trajectories first calculated for this system by Philippidis, Dewdney and Hiley in 1979 and
subsequently confirmed experimentally for photons by Kocsis et al in 2011. The project will link with the
experimental work currently undertaken at University College London https://www.hep.ucl.ac.uk/qupot/. The
project will also search for other suitable quantum systems for implementation and investigation of weak
measurements.
Linear optics quantum metrology
Research area: Physics, Quantum Physics, Quantum Metrology, Quantum Computing
Supervisor: Dr Vincenzo Tamma ([email protected])
Multi-photon interference is one of the most intriguing phenomena in quantum physics, at the very heart of
quantum computing and sensing technologies. In conventional phase-estimation interferometers the
measurement process ignores the information about the physical parameters describing the state of the input
bosons (e.g. photons) which need to be experimentally identical. This theoretical project aims to overcome this
key challenge with a totally innovative approach based on the use of optimal multi-photon linear interferometers
and “ad hoc” correlated measurements in the photonic parameters (time, position, frequency, etc.) depending on
the state of the input bosons. This has the potential to enable enhanced quantum metrological sensitivity in
scalable linear optics schemes with non-identical bosons. A completely novel versatile platform of highprecision phase-estimation interferometers will boost quantum imaging and sensing technologies with realistic
photonic sources.
Synthesis and characterization of Quantum Dots for photodetector applications
Research Area: Nanotechnology and Nnaoscience
Supervisor: Dr Esmaeil Namvar ([email protected])
Quantum Dots (QDs) are semiconductor nanocrystals that behaving interesting quantum properties like
confinement and discrete energy levels very similar to atoms. The difference between energy levels of confined
carriers/exitons depends on the physical size of nanocrystals (typically ~2-7 nm for colloidal CdSe QDs) which
makes it possible to tune the optical transitions of emission and absorption lines and customize them for a wide
range of applications in nanotechnology and nanoscience. Therefore experimental and theoretical studies on the
optical and electronic properties of QDs have been attracted great research interest in recent years. The trend of
such research will continue to bring more advantages of QD nanotechnology because of its usefulness and
various application capabilities.
In this project, synthesis and characterization of QDs for photodetector applications will be investigated. CdSe
based colloidal QDs have been successfully synthesized at University of Portsmouth, Applied Physics group in
the recent years. The photo detection properties of QDs will be investigated in this project to develop further the
technology. Photodetectors are used primarily as an optical receiver to convert light into electricity. The
principle that applies to photodetectors is the photoelectric effect. The photoelectric effect is the effect of light on
a surface of metallic materials that resulted in ejection of electrons from the surface. The result of the absorption
of photons is the creation of electron-hole pairs in the materials. This explains the principle theory of light
energy that allows photodetectors to operate. Therefore a photodetector operates by converting light signals that
hit the materials surface to a voltage or current. In this project we aim to increase and optimize carrier mobility
in QDs which has a key role in photodetector’s performance. Theoretical studies, simulation and modelling are
considered as a complimentary approach due to their crucial role in understanding the physics behind the
process.
How long will the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone remain contaminated?
Research Area: Environmental Radioactivity
Supervisor: Prof Jim Smith ([email protected])
The Chernobyl Exclusion Zone (CEZ) covers approximately 2000 km2 of land in Ukraine (and a similar extent
in Belarus). The level of radioactive contamination reaches > 10 MBq m-2 within the near zone which is also
contaminated with 90Sr and transuranium isotopes. However, the contamination level varies widely and very
significant areas are much less contaminated, at levels below 500 kBq m-2. With appropriate monitoring and
countermeasures, it is it is possible that some parts of the CEZ could possibly be returned to agricultural use.
The aim of the proposed project is to develop a GIS system to evaluate the potential for future agricultural use of
contaminated lands in Ukraine. Digital maps of land use and contamination are currently available for the
Ukrainian sector of the Exclusion Zone. In the proposed project, these would be updated to account for physical
decay and removal of radionuclides, and soil-plant transfer models would be applied to predict potential
radioactive contamination of crops grown in different parts of the Zone. This research would support
collaborative work between UoP, the Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Institute and the Chernobyl Ecocentre on
this issue.