Mr James A Leighs

MPhil/PhD Student
Location: Shrivenham campus
E: j.leighs@cranfield.ac.uk
T: +44 (0)1793 785731
Dept of Engineering and Applied Science

Current activities

Since October 2010, James Leighs has been enrolled in a full-time PhD research programme at Cranfield University, working as part of the Dynamic Response Group. His work is being funded by Cranfield Defence and Security and supervised by Dr. Paul Hazell.

James’ research utilises the capabilities of the Dynamic Response Group laboratory in order to one-dimensionally shock-load samples of organic matter. It is hoped that results from this investigation will make useful contributions to a number of different fields, including astrobiology. These experiments are providing an insight in to whether or not living organic samples could survive some of the extreme conditions experienced during asteroid impact. Initial work is looking at plant seeds as models for the interplanetary transport of life.

Further work will look at whether or not microorganisms could also survive similar conditions and James’ initial work has involved developing the microbiological capabilities of the Dynamic Response Group laboratory.

Background

MPhys (Physics), University of Exeter, September 2006 – July 2010

In addition to traditional physics, James’ masters programme included extensive work in the areas of Mathematics, ICT and in the field of Bio/Medical Physics. James also completed a two year research project investigating a new medical imaging technique, Magnetic Resonance Electrical Impedance Tomography (MREIT). Work focussed on developing tissue phantoms, the apparatus in which they could be tested in the MRI machine and electrodes suitable for use in MREIT.

Selected publications

Leighs, J.A., Hazell, P.J., Appleby-Thomas, G.J., On the Shock Response of Pisum sativum and Lepidium sativum. Shock Compression of Condensed Matter – 2011, American Institute of Physics, Melville, New York..