PhD positions

Funded PhD studentship on Solar Flares for Sep/Oct 2026 Start

We are currently recruiting for a 3.5-year PhD studentship, with a start date in September/October 2026.

The project will be supervised by Dr Alexander Russell and its goal is to advance understanding of solar flares – sudden releases of magnetic energy in the Sun’s corona that heat solar plasma to tens of millions of kelvin and accelerate particles to high energies. During the PhD, you will investigate how energization of ions and electrons affects the solar flare dynamics and seek to identify signatures that can help reveal how the energy release energizes different types of particles.

The project will involve modelling solar flares using existing computer codes. There may also be an opportunity to analyse solar flare observations during the project. The STFC studentship includes a maintenance grant, tuition fees and an allowance for conferences/training.

Applicants should have a degree in Applied Mathematics, Theoretical Physics, Astrophysics or a closely related subject (by the start date). The minimum academic entry requirement is an upper second class honours degree, although we typically look for applicants with a first class degree and strong performance in relevant modules. Apart from excellent academic qualifications, we expect applicants to have the motivation and enthusiasm to enable them to work on an extended research project. Previous research experience is desirable although not essential. Given the computational aspects of the project, applicants should have prior coding experience.

The host group and wider School of Mathematics and Statistics value diversity and nurture an inclusive community. We are firmly committed to the progression of women, and other historically under-represented groups and hold a Silver Athena SWAN award. All applications will be considered holistically and evaluated on their individual merits, with a focus on identifying individuals with high research potential who can be mentored during the PhD.

For more information, including how to apply, email Dr Alexander Russell at [email protected]. A closing date will be set in due course and potential applicants are encouraged to make their interest known at their first opportunity.

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 and to planetary magnetospheres.

We are a large group of applied mathematicians concerned with the greater understanding of a wide range of solar 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 final year undergraduates, expected to gain a First or good Upper Second class degree 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. We hold a number of STFC studentships, offering full financial support to suitably qualified students.