This project aims to obtain new insights into characteristics of film-covered cloud droplets by combining neutron reflector and ellipsometry for the study of atmospheric
reactions. Concerted experiments with these two complementary techniques will allow
investigation of the kinetic behaviour of organic monolayers at the air–liquid interface.
Organic monolayers on a Langmuir trough act as model for naturally occurring organic
layers on cloud droplets, and gas-phase destruction of the monolayers is monitored in real
time. Central to the project objectives is the optimization of the ILL’s new horizontal
neutron reflectometer, FIGARO, to push its temporal resolution to new limits. The
development of a dedicated cell for ellipsometry measurements will allow essential characterization of the chemical systems.

The work forms part of a wider research programme into modern climate change. Reactions
of model surfactants with the atmospheric night-time oxidant NO3 as well as with the
nitrogen oxides NO2 and N2O5 will be investigated. Saturated and unsaturated fatty acids as
well as surfactants with various degrees of deuteration will be studied to gain insight into
the reaction mechanisms at sub-molecular resolution. The experimental data obtained will
be fed into newly developed models to (i) directly quantify the importance of surface
reactions on atmospheric aerosol; (ii) de-convolute the relative importance of surface
reaction, bulk reaction and transport; (iii) provide mechanistic insight with sub-molecular
resolution; and (iv) gain key information on the surfactant properties of reaction products.

The student will be based at ILL in Grenoble for the duration of the PhD and will have visits
to the University of Reading where the degree will be awarded. This position represents an
excellent opportunity for the student to be involved in additional collaborations and
participate in international meetings as well as cross-disciplinary research projects.
The annual allowance is currently €28,800 (subject to social security contributions and
income tax) plus the ILL productivity bonus (€910 in 2009), tuition fees are not payable. A
stipend will be paid at a similar level for 3 years from commencement of study, subject to
transfer to PhD after the first year.

The studentship starting date should be between October 2010 and February 2011. The
studentship is open to UK and EU nationals. Non-EU nationals are welcome to apply if the
have funding for the difference between EU and international fees.

Closing date for applications: 10th September 2010.