PhD Studentship: Modelling the Partially Ionised Solar Chromosphere (STFC funded)

[UK and International tuition fees covered and an annual tax-free stipend of at least £21,805 per year.] The University of Exeter is offering a fully funded PhD studentship focused on modelling the partially ionised solar chromosphere, supported by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC). This research opportunity is ideal for students interested in solar physics, plasma physics, and computational modelling. The solar chromosphere is a critical layer for understanding energy flow and dissipation mechanisms in the solar atmosphere, where magnetic forces play a vital role but the plasma is only partially ionised, leading to complex interactions between the plasma and magnetic fields. The project aims to develop and explore models of the coupling between magnetic fields and the chromospheric fluid, investigating how dynamic phenomena arise and how friction between charged species contributes to chromospheric heating. Students will combine numerical modelling, theoretical analysis, and observational data to study fundamental magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) phenomena in partially ionised systems, including regimes beyond the single fluid approximation. The research will be closely linked to the Solar Atmospheric Modelling Suite Project, a group initiative to build next-generation tools for solar atmospheric studies, led by Professor Hillier. Funding for this studentship covers UK and international tuition fees and provides an annual tax-free stipend of at least £21,805. The award is based on academic merit, and students who pay international tuition fees are encouraged to apply. International applicants should note that they are responsible for costs related to their student visa, healthcare surcharge, and relocation to the UK. Applicants should hold or expect to obtain a first or upper second class degree in physics, mathematics, astrophysics, or a related field. The position offers a unique opportunity to join a vibrant research group at the University of Exeter, contributing to cutting-edge solar atmospheric modelling and advancing our understanding of solar phenomena. The application deadline is 11 March 2026. Interested candidates should apply online via the University of Exeter funding portal, preparing their academic transcripts, CV, and a personal statement. For further details and to access the application form, visit the provided link.