Detailed knowledge of the physical and mechanical properties of materials, and how they change as a function of composition, structure, defects, pressure, temperature etc. is key to an understanding of the long-term evolution of man-made and natural systems. My group uses X-ray and electron-microscopy to study the nano-scale structure of materials, and laser induced transient grating spectroscopy and multi-scale mechanics approaches to probe their properties. Possible D.Phil topics could focus on the pressure and temperature dependant seismic (elastic) properties of Earth materials, or the use of advanced characterisation techniques to understand environment-induced changes in natural materials. The details of any D.Phil project woudl be defined in discussion with the studnet, and could involve both experimental and computational aspects.
Teaching and supervisory experience
Solid Mechanics and materials lecturing across the Engineering undergraduate course
Tutorial teaching (Maths, Mechanics, Materials, Structures) in year 1 & 2 of Engineering undergraduate course
4 D.Phil students & 3 Post-docs
3rd and 4th year undergraduate project supervision
