The measurement of benchmark cross sections is vital to the development of our understanding of fundamental quantum processes. The positron's matter partner, the electron, has been extensively studied and for simple systems, electron scattering is a well understood process. In the case of positron scattering, the technology for generating positron beams has lagged behind that for electron beams, and it is only recently that it has become possible to make measurements with the precision now accepted as standard in the electron case.

This project will focus on using the low energy positron beamline at the Australian Positron Beamline Facility, a part of the Centre for Antimatter-Matter Studies (CAMS), to make fundamental measurements of positron scattering from a variety of simple targets. Initial work on the helium atom is nearing completion, and the experimental program will then extend to targets such as molecular hydrogen (the simplest molecular system) as well as other simple molecules and heavier noble gases. As a part of CAMS, the project will require working as a part of a team, with collaborators from around the country and around the world.

Positron scattering is inherently different to electron scattering, and the measurements that will form a part of this project will be critical to driving further development of theoretical models and understanding of the processes involved. The experiment is the only one of its kind to be performing these measurements worldwide and is at the cutting edge of positron science. The student involved in this project will need to be self motivated, able to operate both independently and as a part of a team and will be expected to develop general scientific and experimental skills, such as computer programming, experiment planning, equipment design, scientific writing and data analysis, as well as a knowledge of atomic and molecular physics in general and charged particle scattering in particular.