PhD Studentships in Solar System Physics, Aberystwyth
PHD STUDENTSHIP IN SOLAR SYSTEM PHYSICS
The Solar System Physics Group at Aberystwyth University’s Department of Physics invites applications for a two 3-year STFC-funded PhD studentships, commencing in October 2010.
Energy and matter emerge from the Sun and flow through our heliosphere, interacting with planetary atmospheres and surfaces, powering many of the processes which shape our world and define the planetary environment we live in. The Solar System Physics Group, part of the Institute of Maths and Physics (IMAPS) at Aberystwyth, studies this single system from the development of eruptive features on the Sun, through the evolution and structure of material in the solar wind, and the impact of this flow on the environments of the planets. This science exploitation goes hand in hand with a programme of solar system exploration, and we also researche the robotic and imaging technology for future missions that will dramatically improve their science return. The group carries out research under three main themes:
The Solar Wind and Heliosphere
The processes on the Sun that can lead to the outflow and eruption of solar material into interplanetary space are strongly related to the Sun’s magnetic field, and research is undertaken on the structure and dynamics of the magnetic field in the solar atmosphere and the structure and dynamics of these outflows and eruptions as they expand into the heliosphere. In particular we are world leaders in Interplanetary Scintillation (IPS) studies.
Planetary Magnetospheres and Ionospheres
We investigate the effect of solar material as it interacts with planets, and how it affects the loss of planetary atmospheres, particularly at Venus; Compare the behaviour of the magnetospheres, ionospheres and exospheres of Solar System planets and Moons.
Planetary Surfaces and Robotic Exploration
To determine the composition of the Moon and inner planets and identify their formation history; to develop the next generation of robotics for planetary exploration.
A PhD with the IMAPS team is an opportunity to undertake original research in one of these exciting fields. The successful applicant will receive training in theoretical/experimental techniques and participate in international conferences and collaborative work overseas.
The studentships provide resources to cover university fees plus a tax-free stipend (currently £13,290 per annum). Applicants should hold (or expect to achieve) a first or upper-second class MPhys or BSc honours degree in physics or a related subject by the summer of 2010. Applicants must also be able to demonstrate established UK residency (for more information see www.scitech.ac.uk/Grants/Studs/student.aspx#Residence).
IMAPS also offers 3 scholarships a year for Non-EU Postgraduates to cover the difference between overseas fees and UK/EU fees. For more information please contact the department at imaps@aber.ac.uk
Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact Prof Manuel Grande – (M.Grande@aber.ac.uk) as soon as possible, to make informal enquiries prior to submitting an application.
Aberystwyth University’s online application system and application forms are available at http://www.aber.ac.uk/en/postgrad/howtoapply/ Once this formal application is made, suitable candidates will be invited to visit the institute to learn at first hand of the research activities, to meet members of staff and to see the facilities available.
The final closing date for applications is 30 June 2010, but the process will run throughout this period, so early application is advised.
