Laser absorption spectroscopy studies of electronic excitation and ionisation for predictive plasma and radiation modelling

This project aims to improve the modelling of engineering plasmas by implementing laser absorption spectroscopy (LAS) to supplement existing optical emission spectroscopy (OES) capabilities across multiple University of Queensland facilities. 

A flexible LAS system will be developed to quantify key plasma species and thermodynamic properties. The technology will be demonstrated on a pulsed electric discharge, the Drummond shock tunnel, and several other possible UQ facilities for hypersonic flow studies. 

By providing new data on electronic excitation, ionisation, and reaction kinetics, the project will improve plasma models relevant to hypersonics and chemical synthesis in plasma reactors. 

These new capabilities will enhance experiments across the Centre for Hypersonics, improve the characterisation of in-house flow facilities, and support future funding efforts for hypersonic flows and plasma reactors. 

The primary research environment will be an optics laboratory paired with some computations and simulations. You will gain experience with laser safety and alignment, operation of laser control equipment, and integration of optical diagnostics on existing hypersonic facilities.

Several hypersonic facilities will be considered in this project,  with options including the UQ X2 and X3R expansion tubes, the T4 reflected shock tunnel, or the pressure-driven Drummond tunnel. Integration of laser diagnostics on each facility will require optical engineering and safety review.

A pulsed electric discharge plasma will also be considered for ionisation studies. Although lower temperature than hypersonic facilities, this discharge plasma enables similar diagnostic demonstration with somewhat simpler diagnostic integration.

Overall, the environment will focus on optical design and safe diagnostic integration.

This project is supported by the Research project scholarship.

Learn more about the Research project scholarship.

Your application will be assessed on a competitive basis.

We take into account your:

• previous academic record
• publication record
• honours and awards
• employment history.

A working knowledge of prior experimental research experience, electronic system design/assembly, and simulation/coding skills would be of benefit to someone working on this project.

You will demonstrate academic achievement in the fields of hypersonic ground testing, spectroscopy, diagnostic design, laser system operation, and experimental research and the potential for scholastic success.

A background or knowledge of spectroscopy, optical diagnostics, and aerothermochemistry is highly desirable.

You must submit an expression of interest (EOI) by 15 October, 2026 15 October, 2026.

Before you apply

1. Check your eligibility for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
2. Prepare your documentation.
3. If you have any questions about whether the project is suitable for your research interests, contact Dr Jesse Streicher (j.streicher@uq.edu.au).

When you apply

To apply, submit an expression of interest (EOI) for the program. You don't need to apply separately for the project or scholarship. How to submit an EOI

In your EOI, complete the ‘Scholarship/Sponsorship’ section with the following details:

1. Are you applying for an advertised project: 'Yes'
2. Project: 'Research project scholarship'
3. Scholarship Code Listed in the Advertisement: LASER-STREICHER
4. Link to Scholarship Advertisement: https://study.uq.edu.au/study-options/phd-mphil-professional-doctorate/projects/laser-absorption-spectroscopy-studies-electronic-excitation-and-ionisation-predictive-plasma-and-radiation-modelling

Submit an EOI