[Full tuition fee waiver for three years and annual stipend of £20,780 at UK Research Council rates. International students must pay for their own visa and Immigration Health Surcharge.]

The University of Hertfordshire is offering a fully funded PhD studentship focused on light scattering by single particles, a topic highly relevant to atmospheric and climate research. The successful candidate will join the Atmospheric and Climate Physics (ACP) group at the Hatfield, College Lane campus, and will have the opportunity to work on both experimental and theoretical aspects of light scattering. Experimental research will involve the development of laser diffractometry techniques for measuring light scattering on single levitated particles, as well as polarimetry and particle characterisation using optical and scanning microscopy. Theoretical investigations will address unresolved questions about the dependence of light scattering on particle complexity and surface roughness, employing computational methods such as physical optics and the discrete dipole approximation.

The studentship is supervised by Dr. Evelyn Hesse (Principal Supervisor) and Professor Detlef Mueller, both experts in the field. The project offers opportunities to present research at international conferences and collaborate with leading scientists in atmospheric physics. The funding package includes a full tuition fee waiver for three years and an annual stipend of £20,780 at UK Research Council rates. International students are welcome to apply but must cover their own visa and Immigration Health Surcharge costs.

Applicants should have a Bachelor’s degree (2.1 or above) or a Master’s degree (if their BSc is 2.2) in Physics or a closely related discipline. Experience with laboratory physical techniques (such as laser and optical instrumentation), computational/numerical modelling, and programming skills (Python, FORTRAN, C++) is highly desirable. Candidates whose first language is not English must provide proof of English language proficiency (minimum IELTS 6.5 or equivalent).

To apply, download and complete the application form and submit it along with a research proposal (maximum two A4 pages), CV, cover letter, two academic references (sent directly from referees), degree certificates and transcripts, and proof of English language competence if required. Applications should be emailed to the Doctoral College Admissions team at [email protected] by 2 February 2026 at 9am. Interviews will be held during the week commencing 9 March 2026. For informal enquiries, contact Dr. Evelyn Hesse or the Doctoral College Admissions team.

This studentship provides an excellent opportunity for motivated students to contribute to cutting-edge research in atmospheric physics, develop advanced experimental and computational skills, and engage with the international scientific community.