Mapping and Mitigating Imperfection Spin Resonances at the Electron-Ion Collider's Rapid Cycling Synchrotron Lancaster University in United Kingdom

This PhD project at Lancaster University, based in the Cockcroft Institute, offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of particle physics, accelerator science, and computational modelling. The research focuses on the Electron-Ion Collider (EIC), the next major high-energy physics facility, and specifically on its Rapid Cycling Synchrotron (RCS). The EIC aims to probe the nature of hadronic matter at the smallest scales, and a key challenge is maintaining polarised beams to study phenomena such as CP violation.

The successful candidate will investigate spin resonances that occur as particle bunches are accelerated and deflected within the EIC RCS. Magnetic fields used for steering and focusing can depolarise particle spins, so understanding and mitigating these effects is crucial. The project involves developing a detailed simulation framework using software such as BMAD and PTC, modelling the beam line, and analysing the impact of ramping up beam energy on spin resonances. Statistical models of magnet errors and nominal fields will be incorporated to gain a comprehensive understanding of depolarisation effects.

In the first year, the student will map RCS spin resonances during the energy ramp to 18 GeV, extracting resonance strengths from BMAD spin-tracking. The second year will focus on optimising lattice designs to minimise beam offsets due to magnet errors and misalignments, and repeating spin studies to analyse the relationship between orbit optimisation and spin resonances. The third year will address mitigation strategies for depolarisation, implementing corrector models to minimise the strongest resonances.

The studentship is funded, covering UKRI stipend and UK home rate fees. Overseas students are eligible but must secure additional funds to cover higher fee rates. Applicants should hold at least a 2:1 (or equivalent) in their first degree and have an interest in computational modelling, particle physics, or accelerator science. The anticipated start date is October 2026, and applications are accepted year-round, with a priority deadline for funded awards on January 31st, 2026.

For further information or to discuss eligibility, contact Dr Rob Apsimon at [email protected]. To apply, visit the Cockcroft Institute PhD webpage. This project is ideal for students eager to contribute to the design and optimisation of cutting-edge particle accelerators and to advance our understanding of fundamental physics through computational research.