PhD in Ultrafast Phenomena in XFEL-driven Molecules at University College London

A fully funded 4-year theoretical PhD position is available in the group of Prof. Agapi Emmanouilidou at University College London (UCL), United Kingdom. The research focuses on ultrafast phenomena instigated by core electron motion in XFEL-driven molecules, a cutting-edge area at the intersection of quantum mechanics, molecular physics, and computational science. The successful candidate will join the Physics and Astronomy Department at UCL and work on advancing theoretical and computational techniques to investigate coherent excitation and ionization, photoionization time delays in multi-centre molecules, and the interplay of electron and nuclear dynamics during the break-up of XFEL-driven triatomics. Key research topics include identifying quantum-interference signatures on ionization spectra, obtaining photoionization time delays of inner-shell electrons, and controlling the coupling of electron and nuclear motion. The project involves developing advanced quantum-mechanical methods and offers opportunities for collaboration with leading experimental groups at Stanford and the Max Planck Institute for Nuclear Physics. The work is highly interdisciplinary, combining elements of ultrafast physics, quantum theory, and computational modeling. The ideal candidate should possess a strong background in quantum mechanics and mathematics, excellent analytical skills, and a willingness to develop computational expertise. The position is open to both international and UK students, with full funding provided (stipend and tuition fees covered for four years). This opportunity is ideal for students interested in theoretical physics, ultrafast science, and the application of advanced computational methods to fundamental problems in molecular dynamics. To apply, interested candidates should contact Prof. Agapi Emmanouilidou at [email protected] for further information and application instructions.