Investigation and Control of Stress in Multilayer Optics for Next-Generation Synchrotron X-ray Applications

The Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Bath is inviting applications for the following fully funded PhD project/studentship, expected to commence late September 2026.

Supervisors:

Dr Hongchang Wang & Dr A. Majhi (Diamond Light Source)

Dr Alexander J. G. Lunt & Prof Chris Bowen (University of Bath)

Project

Modern synchrotron X‑ray facilities rely on highly specialised multilayer optical components to deliver intense, coherent beams for advanced experiments across physics, materials science, engineering and biology. These multilayer systems, used in mirrors, lenses and monochromators, must maintain exceptional stability and accuracy, yet their performance is strongly affected by mechanical stress that develops during thin‑film deposition and under operating conditions. Even small stress‑driven distortions can influence beam quality, limit focusing performance, and reduce long‑term reliability on demanding beamlines.

This PhD will explore how mechanical stress evolves within multilayer X‑ray optics and how this influences the optical, spectral, and structural stability of these components. Working across Diamond Light Source and the University of Bath, the project will involve characterising stress formation during deposition, examining microstructural features that govern stress behaviour, and studying the deformation of curved or high‑precision optics under service conditions. Techniques such as curvature and X‑ray metrology, microscopy, diffraction and mechanical modelling will be used to build a detailed understanding of the factors controlling stress in these multilayer systems.

Alongside this, the project will assess strategies for producing more stable multilayer optics, including optimisation of deposition conditions and exploration of stress‑balanced material combinations. The goal is to support the development of next‑generation optical components capable of meeting the stringent requirements of modern and upgraded synchrotron beamlines.

The student will work within a world‑leading research environment, combining the advanced deposition, metrology and beamline testing facilities at Diamond Light Source with complementary materials science and thin‑film mechanics expertise at the University of Bath. This provides an excellent opportunity work alongside a dynamic, world-leading group to contribute to the design and optimisation of precision optics used by a large international research community.