PhD positions

General Information

The Solar & Magnetospheric Theory Group, in the School of Mathematics and Statistics, is concerned with the investigation of fundamental plasma physics problems relating to the Sun, solar wind and planetary magnetospheres.

We are a large group of applied mathematicians concerned with the greater understanding of a wide range of solar and magnetospheric phenomena, including sunspots, prominences, coronal heating, magnetic fields and reconnection, magnetic waves and instabilities, solar flares, and helioseismology and particle acceleration. Connections with solar-terrestrial physics are also studied.

We actively seek outstanding students, usually expected to gain a First class degree or Master in a mathematically based subject (eg., applied mathematics, astrophysics, theoretical physics), interested in joining us to do a PhD degree. No prior knowledge of solar physics is required, as subject instruction will be provided during the PhD. Given the group’s main strengths, potential candidates contacting the group are encouraged to evidence high ability in mathematical, theoretical and/or computational skills, e.g. through grade transcripts, projects or research experience.

Candidates can be supported by studentships. For example, the university receives several STFC studentships, and the School of Mathematics offers competitively awarded studentships. The University of St Andrews also has a collaborative agreement with the China Scholarship Council that can fund full and joint PhDs in the SMTG (https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/study-abroad/global-research/csc/).

For further information on PhD funding and how to apply to the School of Mathematics and Statistics, see https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/mathematics-statistics/prospective/pgr/