Physics Education Centre
Available student research projects
Advanced project list filtering
ListBy: Research Fields - Supervisor
Research Field: All - Astrophysics - Atomic and Molecular Physics - Biophysics - Clean Energy - Engineering in Physics - Environmental Physics - Fusion and Plasma Confinement - Materials Science and Engineering - Nanoscience and Nanotechnology - Photonics, Lasers and Nonlinear Optics - Physics Education - Physics of Fluids - Physics of the Nucleus - Plasma Applications and Technology - Quantum Devices and Technology - Quantum Science and Applications - Theoretical Physics - Topological and Structural Science
For more info on studying Physics at RSPE visit the Physics Education Centre
Research projects of interest may also be found in the ANU College of Engineering & Computer Science
Research projects of interest may also be found in the ANU College of Engineering & Computer Science
Astrophysics
To infer properties of pulsar plasmas from polarization-resolved pulsar data
Dr Matthew Hole , Professor I Cairns
Atomic and Molecular Physics
This project will characterize various sulphur oxide compounds, in particular SO3, and the number of clustered water molecules and their arrangement required for their reaction to sulfuric acid, H2SO4, under gas phase conditions.
The project studies possibility of the coherent control (i.e. manipulating properties of a quantum system, such as charge density, levels populations, etc., using a suitably tailored laser pulse) for a quantum mechanical model of a molecule.
The student will produce unique zeolite structures and perform characterization experiments on them using the materials beamline at the Australian Positron Beamline facility.
Velocity-map imaging of charged particles has become a leading technique for the study of atoms and molecules, especially when using laser radiation. This project will allow the student to study highly reactive short-lived radials in the gas-phase with instrumentation that is considered to be the worlds best.
This experimental project will use a new type of electron scattering experiment to measure cross sections of interest to plasma modelling.
What information is contained in the spectra and angular distributions of electrons scattered at high energies from surfaces? Now such measurements are possible with sub-eV resolution, we are discovering a wide range of phenomena buried in these spectra. Can we understand them, and can we develop such experiments into a novel analytical technique? This is the challenge of this research.
The student will use a pulsed positron beam for materials characterisation through PALS (Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy) experiments.
Construction and testing of a new electron source for the high energy electron spectrometer based on a nano slit.
This experimental project will take advantage of a high energy resolution positron beam to measure positron interactions with targets of fundamental interest with an unprecedented accuracy.
The influence of recoil on electron scattering was demonstrated only recently.Our understanding is far from complete, and opportunities for exploiting this effect are waiting to be explored.
Using methods of quantum many-body theory to describe elementary processes in atoms and molecules interacting with strong electromagnetic fields.
This project will investigation the critical and rate controlling step in all chemical reactions, the formation of a transition state that links reactants and products of a chemical reaction.
The project studies double photon ionization of a helium atom using simplified one-dimensional model. This allows to elucidate some features of the process (such as possible existence of the effect of the Rabi oscillations in the double ionization probabilities), which (for computational reasons) are difficult to study using the 3D model.
Recent theory predicts intricate line shapes of the spectra of keV electrons scattered from molecules over large angles. Can we establish if these predictions are correct? Similar momentum transfer collisions are studied in neutron scattering experiments using neutrons with energies of several eV. The theory developed here appears different, but are they deep down the same? These are the basic questions we aim to answer.
Unraveling the information contained in the world-first measurements of Kikuchi lines with sub-eV resolution.
In this project, we will push the limits of precision inertial measurements. Using cold and coherent atoms as the source for a matter wave interferometer, we can measure time, rotation, gravity, or acceleration. Applications of precision measurements of inertial parameters include for example navigation with dead reckoning.
Experiments will be carried out to verify the existence of positron binding to atoms.
A He* condensate will be used to test some of the fundamental tenants of quantum mechanics
Bose-Einstein Condensates (BEC) of Rubidum 85 have the intriguing characteristic that their low temperature scattering cross-section can be tuned. By imposing an external magnetic field the strength of the interactions between atoms can be modified. This project will pursue experiments that utilise this tunable interaction.
This experimental project will investigate the interactions of positrons with a variety of molecules of biological relevance.
A systematic experimental and theoretical study of the photodetachment angular anisotropy parameters for a series of negative ions will be undertaken to elucidate the nature of nondipole and relativistic effects in photodetachment. This investigation will use our world-leading state-of-the-art velocity-map imaging photodetachment spectrometer to provide complete spectra, uniquely providing high-energy-resolution cross sections with full angular detail and the key dependence on photodetachment energy.
Biophysics
The cells of living things constitute a high salt environment, in which the type of salt is critical. Experiments will be conducted to reveal how different electrolytes control molecular interactions will be performed.
Supervisors: Dr Jodie Bradby and Prof Adrienne Hardham
Dr Jodie Bradby , Professor AR Hardham
We analyse brain dynamics using 3D holographic light-field projection for multisite photo-stimulation of neuronal circuits.
Dr Vincent Daria , Doctor C Stricker , Emeritus Professor Hans Bachor
This experimental project will investigate the interactions of positrons with a variety of molecules of biological relevance.
The influence of gases such as nitrogen and xenon on the structure of surfactant phases will be investigated.
Clean Energy
Datamining techniques extract information from H-1 essential to understanding instabilities that threaten the viability of fusion as the ultimate clean energy source.
You will apply new coherence imaging cameras and develop suitable inverse procedures for spectro-polarimertic imaging of plasmas in the H-1 heliac and on fusion devices in the US and Europe.
Fast imaging systems synchronously locked to the frequency of fluctuations in the H-1 plasma will be used to identify the nature of the instabilities and their driving mechanisms.
Apply machine learning techniques to assessment of the data quality in plasma fusion experiments, such as the H-1 Heliac.
The student will use the ANU micro-CT 3D microscope to make direct 3D images of fluids displacing one another inside the micron-scale pores inside soils and rocks, to better understand groundwater flows, CO2 trapping and oil recovery mechanisms.
Using a small electron beam, trace the magnetic field lines in H-1, to investigate changes in magnetic geometry, transition to chaos.
The project will investigate the photovoltaic properties of III-V semiconductor materials with the incorporation of quantum wells and dots for enhanced efficiencies
You will devlop and apply novel interferometric techniques to image the evolution of the ratio of hydrogen and deuterium isotopes in radio frequency heated plasmas in the H-1 heliac
The project will investigate the photovoltaic properties of semiconductor nanowires and the fabrication of nanowire solar cells
The goal of the project is to determine and understand how energetic particles, produced by injection, fusion reactions, or wave-particle resonance heating methods affect plasma stability.
Engineering in Physics
The student will produce unique zeolite structures and perform characterization experiments on them using the materials beamline at the Australian Positron Beamline facility.
The student will explore several recently-published algorithms for 3D imaging, which claim to produce an"exact"image from perfect data. Real data is necessarily imperfect due to, for example, quantum noise at the detector.
3D X-ray imaging involves 3 stages: (i) data collection, (ii)"reconstruction", i.e. synthesis of this data into a 3D image, and (iii)"segmentation", i.e. the interpretation of this 3D image by a computer. This project aims to fuse the second and third steps in this process; improving the quality of the data.
Current methods of 3D X-ray imaging assume a"monochromatic"(i.e. single-frequency) X-ray beam that attenuates solely via the photoelectric effect. In reality, X-rays are attenuated and scattered through several mechanisms. Consequently, image quality is degraded.
ANU is host to a 3D X-ray imaging facility. Recent work in our department has opened the door to 4D (3D + time) imaging, i.e. creating a"movie"in which each frame is 3 dimensional. 4D imaging could greatly enhance our understanding of dynamic complex processes, such as fluid-flow in microporous rock.
The project is aiming to develop a highly sensitive magnetic pair spectrometer to measure the weak decay branches from the Hoyle state. This state is formed in the triple-alpha reaction in stars and is responsible for the carbon production in the Universe.
3D X-ray imaging requires the collection of a data set, or"tomogram". This project investigates the possibility of combining multiple tomograms, collected using different imaging techniques, in order to improve image quality.
Environmental Physics
This project will characterize various sulphur oxide compounds, in particular SO3, and the number of clustered water molecules and their arrangement required for their reaction to sulfuric acid, H2SO4, under gas phase conditions.
Accelerator Mass Spectrometry Measurements of the fallout plutonium concentration in stream sediments feeding the Cotter River. The data will elucidate which soil erosion mechanisms dominate in the various sub-catchments that feed the Cotter Dam.
Measuring fallout plutonium inventories and the distribution of plutonium with selected particle sizes in soils from the Cotter River catchment. The data will elucidate which soil erosion mechanisms dominate in the various sub-catchments that feed the Cotter Dam.
Experiments with rotating fluids aim at better understanding of fundamental processes which determine the dynamics of planetary atmospheres and oceans. The presence of the Coriolis force leads to quasi-two-dimensional behaviour of the 3D flows making such a flow similar to magnetized plasma.
Scientific analysis of variety of extreme events including but not limited to ocean rogue waves, financial disasters, stampedes, climat catastrophes etc.
 Tracks_Minerals.jpg)
Study the formation and stability of high energy ion tracks in minerals under controlled environmentswith importance for geological dating techniques
Crude oil in salt water displays a striking ability to form emulsion droplets of very high stability by addition of nanoparticles which line the oil-water interface. Emulsion stability as a function of type of particle and salt concentrations will be studied, with applications to improving recovery of oil from reservoirs and spills.
Measuring fallout plutonium concentrations inestuarine and shallow marine sediments from Northern Australia. The data will help elucidate which catchment regions dominate the modern day sediment flux delivered to the marine coastal ecosystems of Northern Australia.
This work examines the mechanical properties of the shells of a range of marine creatures in an effort to understand how increasing ocean acidification influences their mechanical properties.
Measuring fallout beryllium concentrations in river sediments from Northern Australia. The data will help define the long-term sediment flux delivered by Australia’s Northern Rivers to the marine and coastal ecosystems of Northern Australia.
Fusion and Plasma Confinement
Datamining techniques extract information from H-1 essential to understanding instabilities that threaten the viability of fusion as the ultimate clean energy source.
You will apply new coherence imaging cameras and develop suitable inverse procedures for spectro-polarimertic imaging of plasmas in the H-1 heliac and on fusion devices in the US and Europe.
Using variational methods on a known magnetic field exhibiting chaos the student will develop optimal curvilinear coordinates for plasma equilibrium studies
The student will extend a recently developed variational principle for finding relaxed equilibrium states of a plasma to the calculation of tearing modes
This project is concerned with bridging the gap between research on atom and ion interactions with perfect surfaces, and research in fusion reactors involving complex plasma-wall interaction phenomena.
Fast imaging systems synchronously locked to the frequency of fluctuations in the H-1 plasma will be used to identify the nature of the instabilities and their driving mechanisms.
Apply machine learning techniques to assessment of the data quality in plasma fusion experiments, such as the H-1 Heliac.
Applying high-beta equilibrium theory to solve force balance in the next generation of compact spherical tokamaks.
To compute wave-particle resonance in the H-1 heliac, and estimate wave-drive.
This project is concerned with developing radio-frequency negative hydrogen ion sources for neutral beam injection heating of fusion plasmas.
To explore the stability of multiple region partially-relaxed MRXMHD plasmas in cylindrical geometry, and relate this to existence of electron transport barriers.
Using asymptotic expansion theory the student will develop a formula for the nonlinear frequency shift of a plasma wave up to terms in the square of the amplitude
To explore the equilibrium and stability of multiple region partially-relaxed MRXMHD plasmas in helical geometry.
Using a small electron beam, trace the magnetic field lines in H-1, to investigate changes in magnetic geometry, transition to chaos.
You will devlop and apply novel interferometric techniques to image the evolution of the ratio of hydrogen and deuterium isotopes in radio frequency heated plasmas in the H-1 heliac
The goal of the project is to determine and understand how energetic particles, produced by injection, fusion reactions, or wave-particle resonance heating methods affect plasma stability.
Materials Science and Engineering
This project will examine the change in structure and shape of metal nanoparticles induced by ion irradiation and characterise their structural and vibrational properties.
The aims of this project is understanding the mechanical stability of granular materials and the nature of interacting forces within them. Students will be involved in researching the experimental and numerical aspects of granular materials.
This project will examine porosity and plastic flow in selected amorphous compound semiconductors and characterise these changes with a variety of analytical methods.
Explore techniques for rendering the 3D cellular structures that follow the boundaries of watershed basins in the height functions of 3D images.
The cells of living things constitute a high salt environment, in which the type of salt is critical. Experiments will be conducted to reveal how different electrolytes control molecular interactions will be performed.
Liquid crystals self-assemble to form a variety of designs of varying topological complexity. We are interested in multiply interwoven domain patterns, such as the double-diamond and gyroid structures found in lipid-water, copolymer mixtures and lipid-protein-water assemblies in vivo. A new class of“polyphile” liquid-crystal forming molecules have been made by us. We are exploring the possible self-assemblies these polyphiles can make in the presence of different solvents, with a major interest in making new tricontinuous patterns that we have found. Theoretical study of the relative stabilith of htese patterns is also planned.
This project is concerned with bridging the gap between research on atom and ion interactions with perfect surfaces, and research in fusion reactors involving complex plasma-wall interaction phenomena.
This project will examine the atomic-scale structure of chalcogenides and structural modifications induced by ion irradiation and characterise these changes with a variety of analytical methods.
The student will produce unique zeolite structures and perform characterization experiments on them using the materials beamline at the Australian Positron Beamline facility.
This project investigates device fabrication technologies for making nanowire electronic and optoelectronic devices
Ion implantation has been shown to increase the resistivity of semiconductors. This project explores the use of ion implantation in SiC for electrical isolation in devices.
We have enumerated a number of 3D crystalline patterns via 2D hyperbolic geometry, including 3D weavings of filaments, tangled networks etc. We are keen to develop robust measures of entanglement, using ideas from knot theory. We also plan to explore the effect of entanglement on elasticity of ideal materials, using (mainly) numerical modelling.
 Monte_Carlo.jpg)
Develop and utilise computer simulations to analyse synchrotron based scattering from nano-sized objects.
This project involves using nano-optical (near-field) and ultrafast (sub-picosecond) optical probes to characterise and optimise semiconductor nanowires.
What information is contained in the spectra and angular distributions of electrons scattered at high energies from surfaces? Now such measurements are possible with sub-eV resolution, we are discovering a wide range of phenomena buried in these spectra. Can we understand them, and can we develop such experiments into a novel analytical technique? This is the challenge of this research.
This project will examine irradiation induced disorder in selected crystalline compound semiconductors and characterise these changes with a variety of analytical methods.
 track technology.jpg)
Study fundamental aspects of ion tracks and exploit their application for functionalnanomaterials/devices
Organic compounds adsorbed or deposited on the pore walls of rocks greatly influence the flow of liquids through them. The project will develop novel techniques to 3D image the distribution of these organics using scanning electron microscopy and x-ray micro-CT.
This project will examine the formation of Ge nanoparticles in a dielectric matrix and characterise their structural and vibrational properties with an emphasis on synchrotron radiation techniques.
Implementation of improved temperature-independent Wang-Landau Monte Carlo. Application to polymers.
The student will use a pulsed positron beam for materials characterisation through PALS (Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy) experiments.
 GaSb.jpg)
Investigate the fascinating porous structures of ion irradiated GaSb and InSb
This project will examine irradiation-induced porosity in selected compound semiconductors and characterise these changes with a variety of analytical methods.
This project will examine metal cluster formation in several important dielectrics and determine theatomic-scale structure a variety of analytical methods.
 nanoparticles.jpg)
Study how nanoparticles grow in dielectric materials using in situ synchrotron scattering experiements
This project will study resistive switching in transition-metal oxides which forms the basis of a novel new circuit element called the memister and forms the basis of devices used as nonvolatile memory elements.
This project investigates the fundamental growth mechanism of semiconductor nanowires and how the effect on the nanowire material properties
This project will investigate the epitaxial growth and properties of ZnO and related materials. It will also study the synthesis and properties of ZnO nanostructures and other heterostructures.
A key challenge for many industries is to create strong yet reversible bonding between particulates in water. Polymers will be used to impart a tunable adhesive interaction.
This project will examine the change in structure and shape of Ge nanoparticles induced by ion irradiation and characterise their structural and vibrational properties.
This project combines electrical characterisation of devices and SEM imaging of the depletion in working devices. The aim of the project is to determine the accuracy, sensitivity and limitations of the SEM technique in determining the correct depletion width.
This project covers experimental and theoretical development of metamaterials - artificial structures which have electromagnetic properties not found in nature - and studying their exotic physics.
Study the formation and stability of high energy ion tracks in minerals under controlled environmentswith importance for geological dating techniques
Individual polymer chains anchored between two surfaces will be stretched in solution as a function of solvent conditions
Methods for the production and dispersion of graphene in aqueous solution conditions will be investigated.
This project will examine dopant complex and cluster formation in the semiconductors Si and Ge anddetermine their atomic-scale structure with a variety of analytical methods.
This project will examine a novel, industry-compatible, method for synthesising large-area graphene films with accurately controlled thickness.
This project will investigate the epitaxial growth and properties of InAsSb nanostructures. It will also extend to the design and fabrication of mid-IR devices such as laser diodes and photodetectors
Doctor W Lei , Dr Hoe Tan , Professor Chennupati Jagadish
The project will investigate the photovoltaic properties of III-V semiconductor materials with the incorporation of quantum wells and dots for enhanced efficiencies
The project will investigate the photovoltaic properties of semiconductor nanowires and the fabrication of nanowire solar cells
The influence of cation-pi interactions in interfacial science will be investigated.
This project will examine the formation of metal nanoparticles in a dielectric matrix and characterise their structural and vibrational properties with an emphasis on synchrotron radiation techniques.
This work examines the mechanical properties of the shells of a range of marine creatures in an effort to understand how increasing ocean acidification influences their mechanical properties.
Semiconductor devices are subjected to large stresses during processing and this can affect the production and evolution of defects produced in the semiconductor by ion-implanttaion. This project aims to understand such effects.
Nanoscience and Nanotechnology
This project will examine the change in structure and shape of metal nanoparticles induced by ion irradiation and characterise their structural and vibrational properties.
This project will examine porosity and plastic flow in selected amorphous compound semiconductors and characterise these changes with a variety of analytical methods.
This project investigates device fabrication technologies for making nanowire electronic and optoelectronic devices
This project aims to develop the enabling nanotechnology for the fabrication of high-quality optical metamaterials with loss compensated by an internal gain and tunable properties driven by electrical or optical signals.
Develop and utilise computer simulations to analyse synchrotron based scattering from nano-sized objects.
This project involves using nano-optical (near-field) and ultrafast (sub-picosecond) optical probes to characterise and optimise semiconductor nanowires.
This project will examine irradiation induced disorder in selected crystalline compound semiconductors and characterise these changes with a variety of analytical methods.
Study fundamental aspects of ion tracks and exploit their application for functionalnanomaterials/devices
This project will examine the formation of Ge nanoparticles in a dielectric matrix and characterise their structural and vibrational properties with an emphasis on synchrotron radiation techniques.
Investigate the fascinating porous structures of ion irradiated GaSb and InSb
This project will examine irradiation-induced porosity in selected compound semiconductors and characterise these changes with a variety of analytical methods.
This project will examine metal cluster formation in several important dielectrics and determine theatomic-scale structure a variety of analytical methods.
Construction and testing of a new electron source for the high energy electron spectrometer based on a nano slit.
Study how nanoparticles grow in dielectric materials using in situ synchrotron scattering experiements
The student will study the control of light propagation in nano-strutured materials
This project investigates the fundamental growth mechanism of semiconductor nanowires and how the effect on the nanowire material properties
This project will examine the change in structure and shape of Ge nanoparticles induced by ion irradiation and characterise their structural and vibrational properties.
This project combines electrical characterisation of devices and SEM imaging of the depletion in working devices. The aim of the project is to determine the accuracy, sensitivity and limitations of the SEM technique in determining the correct depletion width.
This project covers experimental and theoretical development of metamaterials - artificial structures which have electromagnetic properties not found in nature - and studying their exotic physics.
Methods for the production and dispersion of graphene in aqueous solution conditions will be investigated.
This project will examine a novel, industry-compatible, method for synthesising large-area graphene films with accurately controlled thickness.
This project will investigate the epitaxial growth and properties of InAsSb nanostructures. It will also extend to the design and fabrication of mid-IR devices such as laser diodes and photodetectors
Doctor W Lei , Dr Hoe Tan , Professor Chennupati Jagadish
Supervisors: Dr Jodie Bradby and Prof Adrienne Hardham
Dr Jodie Bradby , Professor AR Hardham
The project will investigate the photovoltaic properties of III-V semiconductor materials with the incorporation of quantum wells and dots for enhanced efficiencies
The project will investigate the photovoltaic properties of semiconductor nanowires and the fabrication of nanowire solar cells
This project will examine the formation of metal nanoparticles in a dielectric matrix and characterise their structural and vibrational properties with an emphasis on synchrotron radiation techniques.
Photonics, Lasers and Nonlinear Optics
This project aims to design classical analog of nanoantennas for advanced optical communiction.
This project investigates device fabrication technologies for making nanowire electronic and optoelectronic devices
This project aims to develop the enabling nanotechnology for the fabrication of high-quality optical metamaterials with loss compensated by an internal gain and tunable properties driven by electrical or optical signals.
This project involves using nano-optical (near-field) and ultrafast (sub-picosecond) optical probes to characterise and optimise semiconductor nanowires.
The student will study the control of light propagation in nano-strutured materials
This project aims to design theoretical methods and propose experimental implementations to prepare and control highly non-classical states of light in cavity quantum electrodynamics systems.
This project covers experimental and theoretical development of metamaterials - artificial structures which have electromagnetic properties not found in nature - and studying their exotic physics.
This project will investigate the epitaxial growth and properties of InAsSb nanostructures. It will also extend to the design and fabrication of mid-IR devices such as laser diodes and photodetectors
Doctor W Lei , Dr Hoe Tan , Professor Chennupati Jagadish
The project aims to study theoretically and experimentally the process of spontaneous parametric down conversion in photonic waveguiding structures in order to design their output quantum photon statistics.
This project aims to develop compact and energy efficient photonic devices by engineering light-matter interaction in nanoparticle clusters.
Understanding the decay of entanglement is important for applications in quantum information and also from a fundamental perspective. This project aims to investigate the dynamics of entanglement in open quantum systems using quantum trajectory methods.
We analyse brain dynamics using 3D holographic light-field projection for multisite photo-stimulation of neuronal circuits.
Dr Vincent Daria , Doctor C Stricker , Emeritus Professor Hans Bachor
Physics Education
Technology is changing the way we learn physics. This project explores how visualisation and interaction can deepen and individualise learning.
Real Time Relativity is an interactive simulation of relativistic physics. This project is to port it to mobile platforms.
Physics of Fluids
The cells of living things constitute a high salt environment, in which the type of salt is critical. Experiments will be conducted to reveal how different electrolytes control molecular interactions will be performed.
Experiments with rotating fluids aim at better understanding of fundamental processes which determine the dynamics of planetary atmospheres and oceans. The presence of the Coriolis force leads to quasi-two-dimensional behaviour of the 3D flows making such a flow similar to magnetized plasma.
Organic compounds adsorbed or deposited on the pore walls of rocks greatly influence the flow of liquids through them. The project will develop novel techniques to 3D image the distribution of these organics using scanning electron microscopy and x-ray micro-CT.
Exploring theoretical models of dissolved gas in solution and studying its affect on the behaviour of solutions at an interface.
Quantum chemical calculations of the structure of hydrated ions.
Experimental studies of the electromagnetically forced turbulent flows in shallow fluid layers
Do you want to measure the basic forces that operate between all molecules? These same forces are manifest at interfaces and control a wide variety of industrial and biological systems. Using the Atomic Force Microscope and a range of surface analytical techniques we are experimentally investigating these forces which can be as small as the strenght of a single hydrogen bond with distance resolution below a nanometre.
The student will use the ANU micro-CT 3D microscope to make direct 3D images of fluids displacing one another inside the micron-scale pores inside soils and rocks, to better understand groundwater flows, CO2 trapping and oil recovery mechanisms.
A key challenge for many industries is to create strong yet reversible bonding between particulates in water. Polymers will be used to impart a tunable adhesive interaction.
Next time you have a BBQ observe the behavior of water (or beer) droplets on the hot BBQ plate. The droplet skates around on a cushion of evaporating liquid. This is known as the Leidenfrost effect. How the shape of a droplet changes as it approaches the Leidenfrost temperature will be investigated.
Navier-Stokes flow calculations modelling diffusion and deposition of material in a stagnant region.
Individual polymer chains anchored between two surfaces will be stretched in solution as a function of solvent conditions
Methods for the production and dispersion of graphene in aqueous solution conditions will be investigated.
Applying theory of electrolytes and surface forces to oil-brine-rock systems arising from the petroleum industry.
Studying the effect of ionic dispersion interactions of H+ on surface properties.
Surface waves are studied in laboratory experiment. Waves are excited parametrically in vertically shaken containers. Laser and microwave scattering techniques are used to characterize chaotic wave fields.
Crude oil in salt water displays a striking ability to form emulsion droplets of very high stability by addition of nanoparticles which line the oil-water interface. Emulsion stability as a function of type of particle and salt concentrations will be studied, with applications to improving recovery of oil from reservoirs and spills.
The influence of cation-pi interactions in interfacial science will be investigated.
The influence of gases such as nitrogen and xenon on the structure of surfactant phases will be investigated.
Physics of the Nucleus
The magnetic dipole moments of excited nuclear states will be measured to probe nuclear structure, especially the emergence of collectivity near closed shells. Experiments may be performed at large scale international radioactive beam facilities as well as in the ANU heavy ion accelerator laboratory.
This project combines a variety of experiments on beams from the ANU 14UD accelerator with theory to build a better understanding of the hyperfine fields present in free ions. These hyperfine fields have important applications to measuring the magnetic properties of exotic nuclei.
Experiments to investigate the interactions of weakly bound nuclei. Answers will impact on new developments of radioactive beam facilities worldwide.
The project aims to develop numerical procedures to evaluate the energy spectra of X-rays and Auger electrons emitted in nuclear decay.
This project has a theoretical/computational emphasis. The goal is to model the hyperfine interactions of highly charged free ions, examine the conditions under which these ions behave as open versus closed quantum systems, and explore their utility as a laboratory for studies of quantum decoherence.
The project is aiming to develop a highly sensitive magnetic pair spectrometer to measure the weak decay branches from the Hoyle state. This state is formed in the triple-alpha reaction in stars and is responsible for the carbon production in the Universe.
The project will highlight the importance of explicitly treating both quantum coherence and decoherence, to obtain a full understanding of the process of nuclear fusion.
Nuclear fusion at energies below the barrier will be measured to understand the transition from coherent superpositions to irreversible outcomes
Modern alchemists form new elements by nuclear fusion. What are the nuclei to be used? Experiments aim to answer this question
Plasma Applications and Technology
Datamining techniques extract information from H-1 essential to understanding instabilities that threaten the viability of fusion as the ultimate clean energy source.
This project is concerned with bridging the gap between research on atom and ion interactions with perfect surfaces, and research in fusion reactors involving complex plasma-wall interaction phenomena.
Apply machine learning techniques to assessment of the data quality in plasma fusion experiments, such as the H-1 Heliac.
This project is concerned with developing radio-frequency negative hydrogen ion sources for neutral beam injection heating of fusion plasmas.
Using a small electron beam, trace the magnetic field lines in H-1, to investigate changes in magnetic geometry, transition to chaos.
Quantum Devices and Technology
This project aims to examine the effects of atomic motion on gradient quantum memories in order to understand the limitations and perspectives of these systems.
This project is a theoretical investigation into the limits of atomic interferometry, examining differences between thermal and condensed sources.
This project will investigate the epitaxial growth and properties of ZnO and related materials. It will also study the synthesis and properties of ZnO nanostructures and other heterostructures.
This project investigates the experimental scenario behind a proposal for feedback control of an atom laser. By including realistic paramenters, detector noises and limitations, we aim to construct a feedback control model ready for experimental implementation in the Atom Laser laboratory at the ANU.
This project will investigate the epitaxial growth and properties of InAsSb nanostructures. It will also extend to the design and fabrication of mid-IR devices such as laser diodes and photodetectors
Doctor W Lei , Dr Hoe Tan , Professor Chennupati Jagadish
The project aims to study theoretically and experimentally the process of spontaneous parametric down conversion in photonic waveguiding structures in order to design their output quantum photon statistics.
The project will investigate the photovoltaic properties of III-V semiconductor materials with the incorporation of quantum wells and dots for enhanced efficiencies
Storing quantum states of light is useful for all sorts of quantum information applications. Our team seeks to build quantum memory systems using atomic ensembles.
Quantum Science and Applications
The student will study links between integrable systems in statistical mechanics, combinatorial problems and special functions in mathematics.
Using advanced analytic and numerical methods, the student will study critical properties of 2D and 3D systems in statistical mechanics and quantum physics.
It is usually assumed that at a fundamental level the world consists only of quantum things. This project investigates whether classical things might also exist.
This project aims to examine the effects of atomic motion on gradient quantum memories in order to understand the limitations and perspectives of these systems.
This project is a theoretical investigation into the limits of atomic interferometry, examining differences between thermal and condensed sources.
This project will examine exactly solved models in quantum statistical mechanics to provide a quantitative understanding of the collective nature of an impurity immersed in a fermionic environment.
This project has a theoretical/computational emphasis. The goal is to model the hyperfine interactions of highly charged free ions, examine the conditions under which these ions behave as open versus closed quantum systems, and explore their utility as a laboratory for studies of quantum decoherence.
Unraveling the information contained in the world-first measurements of Kikuchi lines with sub-eV resolution.
In this project, we will push the limits of precision inertial measurements. Using cold and coherent atoms as the source for a matter wave interferometer, we can measure time, rotation, gravity, or acceleration. Applications of precision measurements of inertial parameters include for example navigation with dead reckoning.
This project investigates the experimental scenario behind a proposal for feedback control of an atom laser. By including realistic paramenters, detector noises and limitations, we aim to construct a feedback control model ready for experimental implementation in the Atom Laser laboratory at the ANU.
Quantum critical phenomena are associated with phase transitions at zero temperature as system parameters are varied. This project aims to understand quantum criticality in quantum gases.
Nuclear fusion at energies below the barrier will be measured to understand the transition from coherent superpositions to irreversible outcomes
Bose-Einstein Condensates (BEC) of Rubidum 85 have the intriguing characteristic that their low temperature scattering cross-section can be tuned. By imposing an external magnetic field the strength of the interactions between atoms can be modified. This project will pursue experiments that utilise this tunable interaction.
Theoretical Physics
The student will study links between integrable systems in statistical mechanics, combinatorial problems and special functions in mathematics.
Using variational methods on a known magnetic field exhibiting chaos the student will develop optimal curvilinear coordinates for plasma equilibrium studies
The student will extend a recently developed variational principle for finding relaxed equilibrium states of a plasma to the calculation of tearing modes
The project studies possibility of the coherent control (i.e. manipulating properties of a quantum system, such as charge density, levels populations, etc., using a suitably tailored laser pulse) for a quantum mechanical model of a molecule.
A first introduction to generalized geometry and its applications
Using advanced analytic and numerical methods, the student will study critical properties of 2D and 3D systems in statistical mechanics and quantum physics.
It is usually assumed that at a fundamental level the world consists only of quantum things. This project investigates whether classical things might also exist.
A first introduction to String Theory from the undergraduate textbook by Zwiebach
We have enumerated a number of 3D crystalline patterns via 2D hyperbolic geometry, including 3D weavings of filaments, tangled networks etc. We are keen to develop robust measures of entanglement, using ideas from knot theory. We also plan to explore the effect of entanglement on elasticity of ideal materials, using (mainly) numerical modelling.
To infer properties of pulsar plasmas from polarization-resolved pulsar data
Dr Matthew Hole , Professor I Cairns
The purpose of this project is to study one or more of the recent developments in String Theory
Bethe Ansatz equations are the key transcendental equations in the theory of integrable low-dimensional quantum systems such as quantum impurities and quantum dots.
Exploring theoretical models of dissolved gas in solution and studying its affect on the behaviour of solutions at an interface.
Implementation of improved temperature-independent Wang-Landau Monte Carlo. Application to polymers.
Quantum chemical calculations of the structure of hydrated ions.
To compute wave-particle resonance in the H-1 heliac, and estimate wave-drive.
To explore the stability of multiple region partially-relaxed MRXMHD plasmas in cylindrical geometry, and relate this to existence of electron transport barriers.
Using asymptotic expansion theory the student will develop a formula for the nonlinear frequency shift of a plasma wave up to terms in the square of the amplitude
This project will examine exactly solved models in quantum statistical mechanics to provide a quantitative understanding of the collective nature of an impurity immersed in a fermionic environment.
To explore the equilibrium and stability of multiple region partially-relaxed MRXMHD plasmas in helical geometry.
This project aims to give an introduction into the geometric Langlands program
Scientific analysis of variety of extreme events including but not limited to ocean rogue waves, financial disasters, stampedes, climat catastrophes etc.
The project studies double photon ionization of a helium atom using simplified one-dimensional model. This allows to elucidate some features of the process (such as possible existence of the effect of the Rabi oscillations in the double ionization probabilities), which (for computational reasons) are difficult to study using the 3D model.
Navier-Stokes flow calculations modelling diffusion and deposition of material in a stagnant region.
This project covers experimental and theoretical development of metamaterials - artificial structures which have electromagnetic properties not found in nature - and studying their exotic physics.
Study of exclusion statistics using algebraic geometry techniques
Applying theory of electrolytes and surface forces to oil-brine-rock systems arising from the petroleum industry.
Studying the effect of ionic dispersion interactions of H+ on surface properties.
This project aims to develop and employ the full power of the theory of integrable quantum systems to new models of quantum many-body spin systems in string theory.
Quantum critical phenomena are associated with phase transitions at zero temperature as system parameters are varied. This project aims to understand quantum criticality in quantum gases.
The goal of the project is to determine and understand how energetic particles, produced by injection, fusion reactions, or wave-particle resonance heating methods affect plasma stability.
Topological and Structural Science
The aims of this project is understanding the mechanical stability of granular materials and the nature of interacting forces within them. Students will be involved in researching the experimental and numerical aspects of granular materials.
Explore techniques for rendering the 3D cellular structures that follow the boundaries of watershed basins in the height functions of 3D images.
Liquid crystals self-assemble to form a variety of designs of varying topological complexity. We are interested in multiply interwoven domain patterns, such as the double-diamond and gyroid structures found in lipid-water, copolymer mixtures and lipid-protein-water assemblies in vivo. A new class of“polyphile” liquid-crystal forming molecules have been made by us. We are exploring the possible self-assemblies these polyphiles can make in the presence of different solvents, with a major interest in making new tricontinuous patterns that we have found. Theoretical study of the relative stabilith of htese patterns is also planned.
The student will explore several recently-published algorithms for 3D imaging, which claim to produce an"exact"image from perfect data. Real data is necessarily imperfect due to, for example, quantum noise at the detector.
Organic compounds adsorbed or deposited on the pore walls of rocks greatly influence the flow of liquids through them. The project will develop novel techniques to 3D image the distribution of these organics using scanning electron microscopy and x-ray micro-CT.
The the interaction between solid objects when placed in contact and loaded
3D X-ray imaging involves 3 stages: (i) data collection, (ii)"reconstruction", i.e. synthesis of this data into a 3D image, and (iii)"segmentation", i.e. the interpretation of this 3D image by a computer. This project aims to fuse the second and third steps in this process; improving the quality of the data.
Current methods of 3D X-ray imaging assume a"monochromatic"(i.e. single-frequency) X-ray beam that attenuates solely via the photoelectric effect. In reality, X-rays are attenuated and scattered through several mechanisms. Consequently, image quality is degraded.
ANU is host to a 3D X-ray imaging facility. Recent work in our department has opened the door to 4D (3D + time) imaging, i.e. creating a"movie"in which each frame is 3 dimensional. 4D imaging could greatly enhance our understanding of dynamic complex processes, such as fluid-flow in microporous rock.
The student will use the ANU micro-CT 3D microscope to make direct 3D images of fluids displacing one another inside the micron-scale pores inside soils and rocks, to better understand groundwater flows, CO2 trapping and oil recovery mechanisms.
3D X-ray imaging requires the collection of a data set, or"tomogram". This project investigates the possibility of combining multiple tomograms, collected using different imaging techniques, in order to improve image quality.
