Computational Chemistry and Chemical Physics

At its most fundamental, chemistry is the 'art' of transforming one molecule into another. This research group builds on the foundations laid by physicists and chemists in the 20th century, by striving to understand and control atomic and molecular motion in chemical reactivity.

<p>Modern experimental probes – such as velocity map imaging and femtosecond spectroscopy – have been developed to allow exquisitely detailed probing of chemical reactions involving a small number of atoms with quantum state resolution and temporal resolution on the natural timescale of bond breaking.</p> <p>Novel computational and analytical methods for quantum dynamics are an equally important part of our work, complementing and often driving the experimental programme. Our long-term research goals are to apply this knowledge to the study of much more complicated reactions and processes, building links with biology and quantum physics, as well as atmospheric and astrophysical chemistry.</p> <h5>Our work divides into two main areas:</h5> <ul> <li>computational chemistry</li> <li>experimental chemical physics</li> </ul> <p>Find out more about our <a href="http://physicalsciences.leeds.ac.uk/info/53/our_research/60/colour_and_polymer_science">research and expertise</a>.</p> <h5>Facilities</h5> <ul> <li>femtosecond, picosecond and nanosecond laser sources, from the IR to the deep UV</li> <li>molecular beam instruments and velocity map imaging spectrometers</li> <li>amplitude and phase shapers for coherent control experiments</li> <li>dedicated computational resources and access to large multiprocessor facilities</li> </ul> <h5>Links with industry</h5> <p>Our engagement with industry is well developed, if specialised, through EU collaborations involving SMEs across Europe engaged in developing detector and laser technologies. Also, our research overlaps strongly with the Atmospheric and Planetary Chemistry research group and with the Topological Quantum Information and Molecular and Nanoscale groups in physics. We also have a number of long-standing international collaborations with researchers in Europe and the USA.</p> <h5>For queries relating to your research proposal or subject area, please contact the individual supervisors listed below:</h5> <ul> <li><a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/chemistry/staff/4211/dr-andrew-burnett">Andrew Burnett</a></li> <li><a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/chemistry/staff/5288/dr-arend-g-dijkstra">Arend Dijkstra</a></li> <li><a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/chemistry/staff/4188/dr-marcelo-miranda">Marcelo Pessoa de Miranda</a></li> <li><a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/chemistry-computational/staff/4601/professor-steve-scott">Stephen Scott</a></li> <li><a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/chemistry/staff/4197/professor-dmitry-shalashilin">Dmitry Shalishilin</a></li> <li><a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/chemistry/staff/4186/professor-ben-whitaker">Ben Whitaker</a></li> </ul> <h5>Why do your PhD at Leeds? </h5> <p><strong>96% of our research is world-leading (REF 2021) </strong><br /> At Leeds, our research addresses the most prevalent real-world challenges – providing solutions that have had both a national and global impact. <br /> <strong>Study in an active research environment </strong><br /> Studying your PhD with us means you’ll be working in a professional research environment, using UK-leading facilities to bring your project to life – alongside active researchers who are at the forefront of their area. <br /> <strong>A strong network of support  </strong><br /> The Leeds Doctoral College connects our community of researchers and can offer you the guidance, services and opportunities you’ll need to get the most out of your PhD. <br /> <strong>Close industry links </strong><br /> Our partnerships and links to companies and academic institutions give you the opportunity to network at industry talks, seminars and conferences, building connections that'll benefit your next steps after you complete your PhD. <br /> <strong>Professional skills development  </strong><br /> We think of the whole picture at Leeds. That’s why we offer a range of workshops and courses that'll enhance your skillset further and transfer into your professional career. <br /> <strong>Personal and wellbeing services </strong><br /> Mental health and wellbeing support are integral to who we are at Leeds and you’ll have access to the full range of services we offer to ensure you’re feeling your best – and reaching your potential in your studies. <br /> <strong>Join our global community </strong><br /> We welcome students, researchers, academics, partners and alumni from more than 140 countries, all over the world. This means, as a university, we’re bringing together different cultures and perspectives which helps strengthen our research – and societal impact.</p> <h3>Useful links and further reading:</h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/chemistry-research-degrees">Research degrees within the School of Chemistry</a></li> <li><a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/chemistry-research-groups/doc/computational-chemistry-chemical-physics">Computational Chemistry and Chemical Physics group</a></li> <li><a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/chemistry-research-innovation">School of Chemistry, Research and Innovation</a></li> </ul> <h3>Leeds Doctoral College</h3> <p>Our <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-leeds-doctoral-college">Doctoral College</a> supports you throughout your postgraduate research journey. It brings together all the support services and opportunities to enhance your research, your development, and your overall experience.</p>

<p>Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University's website</a>.</p>

<p>For general enquiries and details regarding the application process, please contact the Graduate School Office:<br /> e: <a href="mailto:maps.pgr.admissions@leeds.ac.uk">maps.pgr.admissions@leeds.ac.uk</a>, t: +44 (0)113 34 35057</p>