Early Stage Researcher Position in Team 19

Location of Appointment	Toulouse (FR)
Team Leader (contact person)	Christine Joblin
Address	CESR 9 Av. du Colonel Roche 31028 Toulouse Cedex 04 France
e-mail	<christine.joblin@cesr.fr>
Telephone	+33 (0)561 558 601
Fax	+33 (0)561 556 701
Various URL	http://www.cesr.fr/~joblin/
Category of Position	Early Stage Researcher
Duration of Appointment (in months)	24
Starting Date	01-10-2006
Requirements with respect to candidate :	Masters degree in physics , astronomy or physical chemistry
Title of Research Project	Photophysics and chemistry of interstellar PAHs and carbon clusters
PDF Version of advert	J19.pdf

Abstract of Research Project

General Introduction: One of the interesting discovery of infrared astronomy is the ubiquitous presence of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and carbon clusters in interstellar and circumstellar environments. The nature of these large carbon molecules is driven by their formation and further evolution under the action of UV photolysis and chemistry. The experimental set-up PIRENEA has been developed to specifically address these questions. The photodissociation of PAHs by UV photons was shown to produce carbon clusters. However the competition with rehydrogenation, in particular by reactivity with H atoms, will limit this production in astrophysical environments. Another limiting process is the reactivity with oxygen that will destroy the carbon skeleton. Recombination with electrons, which can be dissociative is also an important process to quantify. This project will be led in collaboration with the IEM-CSIC Madrid (Team 11 - J. Cernicharo). Both teams have a large experience in the observation of large carbon molecules, in astrophysical modelling and in laboratory experiments. They are strongly involved in the above project in particular in the context of the preparation of the Herschel mission. There is also an expertise in theoretical chemistry. Application : The position is available from October 1st 2006 although an earlier start date is possible. Letters of application should be sent by September 20th 2006 to the address above including a curriculum vitae with a detailed list of university courses, a description of research experience and a letter of motivation. Letters of recommendation are welcome. Qualified women candidates are specifically encouraged to apply.