Month: April 2019

UK Solar Orbiter workshop – Final announcement

UK Solar Orbiter Workshop – Final announcement
Date : 3rd-4th June 2019
Venue : UCLU Room Math 500, UCL Gordon Square 25, London

Solar Orbiter is an ESA/NASA mission designed to answer some of the key questions in heliophysics, from the origin and variability of the solar wind to the link between solar eruptions, magnetic fields and energetic particles. Solar Orbiter will have a unique combination of in-situ and remote-sensing instruments, probing the atmosphere close to the Sun in and out of the ecliptic plane. The modeling of the magnetic environment that will be experienced by the satellite and its connection to the Sun will be key to the success of both the in-flight operations as well as to the mission’s scientific goals.
With the launch of Solar orbiter scheduled for February 2020, the UK solar Orbiter Workshop aims to bring together the expertise of the UK solar community in magnetic modeling and model validation, to increase the UK impact on the international efforts in preparation for Solar Orbiter operations, and to coordinate the UK efforts for the exploitation of the satellite observations.
All members of the UK solar physics community interested in the Solar Orbiter mission goals are encouraged to attend.

Registration is now open and will close on May 15th. Please register at https://sites.google.com/view/ukso-19/registration

Due to venue limitations the number of participant is capped, and early registration is encouraged.

For information please email uk-solo@mssl.ucl.ac.uk

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Europlanet Lunchtime session at NAM: Exoplanetary Magnetism (Thursday 4th July 2019)

As part of the Europlanet NA1 scheme, Aberystwyth University will be hosting a lunchtime session on “Exoplanetary Magnetism” on Thursday 4th July as part of the National Astronomy Meeting at Lancaster.

The aim of this panel and networking session is to bring together expertise in solar magnetospheres and the exoplanet community to explore potential future collaborations. With the advent of new instrumentation (both space based and ground based) the routine detection of exoplanets using radio waves emitted when a stellar wind interacts with an intrinsic planetary magnetic field is becoming an increasing possibility.

https://nam2019.org/science/special-lunches

To assist those whom plan to attend this session we are able to offer bursaries of a flat rate of 100 euros. If you wish to apply for a bursary please fill out the application form and email to Dr Maire N. Gorman (mng2@aber.ac.uk) by Sunday 5th May. Outcomes will be communicated by Monday 13th May. Priority will be given to early career researchers and those from under-represented research communities and stakeholders, including new EU Member States. The bursary will be reimbursed by Aberystwyth University to recipients after the event whom will be required to fill out a short feedback form.

https://nam2019.org/nam2019/grantscontinue to the full article

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Preparing for the next generation of ground-based solar physics observations – First announcement

23 to 25 July 2019
UCL, Mullard Space Science Laboratory, Holmbury St. Mary, RH5 6NT, UK

With the advent of new facilities such as the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope (DKIST) and the proposed European Solar Telescope (EST), ground-based solar observations are on the cusp of experiencing a renaissance. These new facilities will probe the Sun at spectral, spatial and temporal resolutions beyond that previously possible as a result of new technical advances. There will also be a much-enhanced capacity for spectropolarimetric studies, which will need developments in our modelling capability and will open up opportunities for new instrumentation. The aim of this 3-day workshop is to bring together experts in observations, modelling and theory to help prepare for first light from DKIST, which is expected later this year.

In addition to two days of scientific discussion, we will also have a third day dedicated to discussing next generation instrumentation, in preparation for EST and the 2nd generation instrumentation for DKIST. In particular, the aim of the third day is to identify and discuss novel materials, designs and approaches to observing the Sun that could be used for both ground-based and potentially also space-based observing. Therefore the workshop will be of interest to those working in the area of fundamental research, modelling and instrument developments.

Please note that there is no registration fee and the registration and abstract submission deadline is Friday May 31st 2019.

Due to venue limitations the number of participant is capped and early registration is encouraged.

For registration and abstract submission please visit: https://sites.google.com/view/mssl-next-gen-solar-obs/home

Local organising committee:
Lucie Green, David Long, Deb Baker, Gherardo Valori, Sarah Matthews

https://sites.google.com/view/mssl-next-gen-solar-obs/homecontinue to the full article

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Lord Kelvin Adam Smith Research Fellowships in Data Science

The University of Glasgow has advertised three fellowships in Data Science under its prestigious Lord Kelvin Adam Smith scheme. These fellowships are awarded for up to five years, with the last two years dependent on performance, and can be held in any School in the College of Science and Engineering. The closing date is April 26th 2019.

The Astronomy and Astrophysics Group in the School of Physics and Astronomy encourages applications to this scheme from solar physicists with data science experience, or data scientists interested in solar problems. The group works on a range of solar physics problems using ground and space-based data from radio to X-ray wavelengths, and is involved in missions and facilities with clear data challenges, such as the LOFAR radio telescope and the forthcoming Daniel K Inouye Solar Telescope .

A short proposal is required, which should be aligned with current activities in the group. Therefore please contact Prof. Lyndsay Fletcher (lyndsay.fletcher@glasgow.ac.uk) in the first instance to discuss a potential application.

The salary will be on the University’s Research and Teaching grades 7 or 8 (Grade 7: £35,210 – £39,610 per annum, Grade 8: – £43,266 – £50,132 per annum). In addition to the salary funding, an allowance for research costs will be made at a rate of £10,000 per annum for each year of the fellowship for laboratory-based research and £5,000 per annum for each year for non-laboratory-based research.

More information can be found at: https://www.gla.ac.uk/research/lkas/lkasfellowships/fullyfundedfellowships/

It is the University of Glasgow’s mission to foster an inclusive climate, which ensures equality in our working, learning, research and teaching environment.
We strongly endorse the principles of Athena SWAN, including a supportive and flexible working environment, with commitment from all levels of the organisation in promoting gender equality.

The University of Glasgow, charity number SC004401.

https://www.gla.ac.uk/research/lkas/lkasfellowships/fullyfundedfellowships/continue to the full article

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First announcement: Dynamics of the Sun & stars – Michael Thompson in memoriam

Dynamics of the Sun & stars; Honoring the life and work of Michael Thompson

24 – 26 September 2019, High Altitude Observatory, Boulder, Colorado

This meeting celebrates Michael Thompson’s seminal work on solar and stellar physics, as well as his major contributions to the development of the National Center for Atmospheric Research, and marks his untimely death in October 2018. Michael played a key role in the development of helioseismology and its application to the study of the structure and dynamics of the solar interior, and he provided a strong foundation for the extension of seismic studies to other stars. After concentrating for several years on more administrative activities he was returning to leading the seismic studies of solar interior rotation and he was deeply involved in the understanding of the dynamics of the core of stars, when his life was tragically lost.

The conference will focus on dynamical aspects of the sun and stars, based on the large amount data available on solar and stellar oscillations, and the extensive and detailed modelling now becoming feasible. By combining observations, seismic analysis and modelling we hope that this will be a fitting memorial for a close colleague and friend, much missed.

For further information and registration, see https://www2.hao.ucar.edu/MJTWorkshop2019/

For the organizers

Jørgen Christensen-Dalsgaard, Scott McIntosh

https://www2.hao.ucar.edu/MJTWorkshop2019/continue to the full article

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Call for Applications and Nominations to STFC’s Science Board, Committees and Peer Review Panels, 2019

Every year, a number of vacancies become available on STFC’s advisory bodies and peer review panels. These bodies perform a vital function for STFC, providing advice and guidance that aids our strategic direction and supports decision-making processes. A full list of vacant positions can be found here: https://stfc.ukri.org/about-us/how-we-are-governed/advisory-boards/callforapplications/

Members of advisory bodies and panels have the opportunity to influence STFC’s strategy, policies, and funding decisions, as well as guiding STFC to most effectively develop the societal impact of our investments and best support our research and innovation communities. Members will also expand their professional networks and explore a wide range of challenges related to investment in UK science and engineering.

 

STFC is committed to the principles of fair and transparent decision-making. Appointments to our boards, committees and panels will be assessed via an appropriate review process, according to the requirements listed by each programme area that focus on an applicant’s qualifications, skills, experiences, behaviours, and personal characteristics.

This is an annual call and, as a result, membership may commence at different times. For all committees, members will be appointed for three years unless otherwise stated. Please note, you can make a self-application or can be nominated by someone. If nominating, please ensure that the nominee is aware of, and agrees to, the nomination.

Nomination / application form is available here

The closing date is Tuesday 30 April 2019.

If you require any further information, please contact Natalia Sengkudduvan.… continue to the full article

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I’m a Scientist, Get me out of here

Engage school students with your research from your desk!

I’m a Scientist, Get me out of here http://imascientist.org.uk/scientists is an online STEM engagement competition that gets people in science talking with curious school students. The STFC are funding Particles Zone and Space Zone https://imascientist.org.uk/2019/03/june-2019-zones/, both taking place 10-21 June  – and researchers funded by, or using data from, the STFC get priority in this oversubscribed event.

“After my first live chat I was hooked! The enthusiasm of the students was inspiring, and some of the questions were incredibly thought-provoking”

David, physicist https://about.imascientist.org.uk/2018/i-was-in-awe-at-the-intelligence-of-the-students-november-2018-winners-blog-posts/

Apply now for* I’m a Scientist* at imascientist.org.uk/scientist-apply

Make sure to select ‘Connected to STFC’ to receive priority for a place

Taking part is an enjoyable and easy way to get involved in STEM engagement. You’ll develop your communication skills and gain a fresh perspective on your work, through showing students what it’s really like to be a researcher.

Fill in your profile page, answer questions and use the text based chat system with UK school students. Everything happens online; you take part from your desk or smartphone. There’s no need to prepare activities or take time out of the office. Even better, students vote for their favourite scientist, who wins £500 to fund more STEM engagement activities.

Find out more and apply by Tuesday 23rd April at imascientist.org.uk/scientists

Any questions, contact antony@mangorol.la or call 01225 326 892… continue to the full article

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STFC Public Engagement Early-Career Researcher Forum

STFC Public Engagement Early-Career Researcher Forum
https://stfc.ukri.org/public-engagement/training-and-support/peer-forum/
Call for Applications
Closing date: 16:00, Monday 3rd June 2019

The STFC Public Engagement Early-Career Researcher Forum (the ‘PEER Forum’) will support talented scientists and engineers in the early stages of their career to develop their public engagement and outreach goals, to ensure the next generation of STFC scientists and engineers continue to deliver the highest quality of purposeful, audience-driven public engagement.

PEER Forum aims

*   To foster peer learning and peer support between early career scientists and engineers with a passion for public engagement and outreach.

*   To improve understanding of the support STFC provides for public engagement and outreach (including funding mechanisms, evaluation, and reporting) and how to successfully utilise this support.

*   To stimulate discussions that help to develop and influence STFC’s approaches to public engagement.

What will participation in the Forum involve?
Participants in the PEER Forum will meet face-to-face at least twice per year to share learning and to participate in session that will strengthen the depth and breadth of their understanding of public engagement and outreach.

Who can apply to join the Forum?
The PEER Forum is for practising early-career scientists and engineers who have an ambition to carry out excellent public engagement alongside, and complimentary to, their career in science or engineering. We are seeking Forum members from across the breadth of STFC’s pure and applied science and technology remit.

The specific personal requirements of PEER Forum membership are that members:

*   Have completed their highest level of academic qualification within the last ten years (not including any career breaks)

*   Are employed at a Higher Education Institute, or a research-intensive Public Sector Research Organisation or Research Laboratory (including STFC’s own national laboratories)

*   Work within a science and technology field in STFC’s remit, or with a strong inter-disciplinary connection to STFC’s remit, or use an STFC facility to enable their own research

*   Demonstrate a highly credible track record of experience in their field, corresponding to the length of their career to date

*   Demonstrate a highly credible track record of leading and delivering public engagement or outreach

*   Are keen communicators with a willingness to contribute to the success of a UK-wide network

Further information
For details on how to apply please go to our website<https://stfc.ukri.org/public-engagement/training-and-support/peer-forum/> or contact Andy Thompson Andy.Thompson@stfc.ac.uk<mailto:andy.thompson@stfc.ac.uk>.… continue to the full article

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ML-Helio 2019 – Abstract Deadline EXTENSION: 14 April 2019

The Conference Machine Learning in Heliophysics will be held on September 16 – 20, 2019 in Amsterdam, NL.

Abstract submission is now open.

The deadline for abstract submission has been extended to 14 April 2019.
Registration will open immediately after.

All information about topics, abstract submission, hotel, etc. can be found on bit.ly/ml-helio19

Please note that Amsterdam is always in season. We strongly recommend to book your accommodation in advance.

We expect to have a number of travel grants for PhD students and early career scientists (<3 yr from PhD). Participants need to have submitted an abstract, to be considered for a travel grant. We will soon post more information on the website.

Enrico Camporeale, on the behalf of the SOC… continue to the full article

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Big Bear Solar Observatory – Call for Observing Proposals: 2019 Session 2

New Jersey Institute of Technology announces the availability of a certain amount of observing time for the solar community at its Big Bear Solar Observatory (BBSO) 1.6-m, off-axis Goode Solar Telescope (GST). The BBSO telescope allocation committee (TAC) is accepting outside proposals for the session 2 (July 1 – 31 and September 15 – October 31, 2019) observing quarter. Proposals are due Friday, May 24, 2019. Applicants are encouraged to collaborate with BBSO/NJIT scientists to facilitate proposal preparation, observations, and data analysis. Descriptions of the GST and its instrumentation are available at www.bbso.njit.edu/NJIT_Ground-Based_Solar_Observatories.pdf

The observing proposal should be submitted via the following web link www.bbso.njit.edu/cgi-bin/NSTObsForm

Meanwhile, much of our existing data are already open to the community. The data availability with quick look movies can be found at www.bbso.njit.edu/~vayur/NST_catalog/
Data can be requested via: www.bbso.njit.edu/~vayur/nst_requests/

We note the large number of excellently written DKIST Science Use Cases being considered in its critical science plan.  As DKIST is over a year away from start of operations, many of these could be preliminarily explored using existing GST data or by applying for new GST observations. We encourage authors of the DKIST Science Use Cases to discuss this possibility with us.… continue to the full article

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