Education
University of Surrey - Completing a PhD in electronic and phonon properties of 2D layered materials 2009-2015
The interaction between vibration modes and electrons is characterised by the Electron-Phonon Coupling (EPC) parameters. My research is focused on developing methods of calculating these parameters; for layered materials currently. Graphene is an interesting example of the need for clearer understanding of this subject. Its electronic properties are intrinsically linked to the vibrational properties characterised by a break down in the Bohn-Oppenheim approximation and evidenced by substrate effects on the thermal and electronic conduction values. It seems that in graphene the intrinsic vibrational modes are advantageous to conduction properties facilitating ballistic transport. It is an intriguing prospect to imagine enhancing conduction in other materials by isolating or resonating with beneficial vibrations.
The interaction between vibration modes and electrons is characterised by the Electron-Phonon Coupling (EPC) parameters. My research is focused on developing methods of calculating these parameters; for layered materials currently. Graphene is an interesting example of the need for clearer understanding of this subject. Its electronic properties are intrinsically linked to the vibrational properties characterised by a break down in the Bohn-Oppenheim approximation and evidenced by substrate effects on the thermal and electronic conduction values. It seems that in graphene the intrinsic vibrational modes are advantageous to conduction properties facilitating ballistic transport. It is an intriguing prospect to imagine enhancing conduction in other materials by isolating or resonating with beneficial vibrations.
Nanotechnology MSc Distinction
Research Project (Dissertation) 73%
Physics BSc (Hons) 2:2 2004-2008
Merit in Professional Training Year
Final Year Project (Dissertation) 64%
Research Project (Dissertation) 73%
Physics BSc (Hons) 2:2 2004-2008
Merit in Professional Training Year
Final Year Project (Dissertation) 64%
A2-Level 2003
Physics and Maths
Chemistry
GCSE 2001
2x Science; Electronics
Maths; IT; English Literature
Economics; English
RE
Physics and Maths
Chemistry
GCSE 2001
2x Science; Electronics
Maths; IT; English Literature
Economics; English
RE
Computing Experience
High level of proficiency with:
Fortran 90 & 95
- Partial differential equations
- First and second order differential
- Emission from a radioactive material
- The ‘Chaotic Billiards’ problem
C++ and C Programming
- Burns modelling with BAE Systems, Shrivenham
Visual Basic
- GUI’s for several applications
Very confident with all Microsoft office programs
Similar with various operating systems including DOS, Windows and Unix
Fortran 90 & 95
- Partial differential equations
- First and second order differential
- Emission from a radioactive material
- The ‘Chaotic Billiards’ problem
C++ and C Programming
- Burns modelling with BAE Systems, Shrivenham
Visual Basic
- GUI’s for several applications
Very confident with all Microsoft office programs
Similar with various operating systems including DOS, Windows and Unix
Laboratory Experience
Astrological observations Writing various reports
Presentation of findings Scientific posters
Various radiation lab experiments Modern Analytical Techniques module as
A wide variety of spectroscopy techniques part of BSc Degree (Achieving: 78%)
Maintaining a lab diary - AFM, SEM, Calorimetry
Presentation of findings Scientific posters
Various radiation lab experiments Modern Analytical Techniques module as
A wide variety of spectroscopy techniques part of BSc Degree (Achieving: 78%)
Maintaining a lab diary - AFM, SEM, Calorimetry
Additional Skills
Team working Open-mindedness
Leadership Problem solving
Analytical thought Can work independently
Trustworthy Customer relations
Computer literate Wide ranging communication skills
Leadership Problem solving
Analytical thought Can work independently
Trustworthy Customer relations
Computer literate Wide ranging communication skills
Work Experience and Responsibilities
I have been in paid employment, in one form or another, since the first year of my A-levels; finding it provides a lot of confidence and invaluable life experience. During university education it has been possible to undertake part-time vacation work and a professional training year was completed in 2006-2007.
2006 (August) – 2007 (August)
Safety Engineer
Full-time Research with BAE Systems,
Land and Armaments, Shrivenham.
Working with Paul Locking and Steve Harkness in the safety engineering department I was the lead researcher for the year on the now fully verified burns model, ‘Prometheus’.
Some specific experiences include:
2004 – 2008 (vacation time) Part-time Conference Assistant
Conference Office, University of Surrey Campus
The campus conference office liased with many national and international business and offered their vacant facilities to them. Some specific experiences include:
2006 (August) – 2007 (August)
Safety Engineer
Full-time Research with BAE Systems,
Land and Armaments, Shrivenham.
Working with Paul Locking and Steve Harkness in the safety engineering department I was the lead researcher for the year on the now fully verified burns model, ‘Prometheus’.
Some specific experiences include:
- Close contact with the BEA Systems Advanced Technology Institue
- Leading project timings and direction
- Regular team briefings with all Shrivenham staff
- Extensive report and presentation of the ‘Prometheus’ model
2004 – 2008 (vacation time) Part-time Conference Assistant
Conference Office, University of Surrey Campus
The campus conference office liased with many national and international business and offered their vacant facilities to them. Some specific experiences include:
- Observing the organisation of conferences
- Ensuring multiple conferences run smoothly
- Over all guidance and care for delegates
- Observing university interaction with business
Extracurricular Positions and Interests
Within the Students Union:
Within the department:
Interests:
- Executive officer (various positions)
- ‘DAVE Project’ tutor - transferable skills development programme
- Member of the Debating Society
Within the department:
- Academic Representative for my year group
- Tour guide for prospective students
- Member of the Physics Society
Interests:
- Roller derby (referee, official and player)
- Jui Jitsu (2nd Kyu, Jitsu Foundation)
- Squash
- Cookery