Neil Lewis

I am a Leverhulme Trust Early Career Fellow in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. The aim of my research is to develop a general understanding of the fluid flows that occur in planetary and stellar environments. 

Currently, my research is focussed on developing a new model for atmospheric dynamics in Jupiter's visible 'weather layer'. Recent observations of Jupiter taken by the Juno spacecraft have revealed that geometric clusters of cyclones exist in Jupiter's polar regions, but these features evade simulation by global numerical models. I am developing a global model with refined resolution at the poles to improve simulation of the polar regions, based on the GFDL finite volume, cubed sphere dynamical core, 'FV3'. Using this model, I aim to determine the mechanisms that generate and maintain Jupiter's observed polar meteorology. 

More broadly, I am interested in all topics that full under the umbrella of Geophysical and Astrophysical Fluid Dynamics. Alongside my fellowship research, I am currenty pursuing investigations into: the dynamics and scaling properties of rotating, thermal convection (w/ Matt Browning, Exeter); the properties of geostrophic turbulence on the sphere (w/ Richard Scott, St. Andrews); and the influence of mid-latitude dynamics on surface temperature persistence (on Earth!) (w/ Will Seviour, Exeter). In addition, I am a lead developer of the 'Isca' GCM framework for modeling the atmospheres of the Earth and other planets. I am currently working on incorporating FV3 into Isca. I also have experience with the Python package 'Dedalus', which I have used to construct numerical models of thermally-driven convection, and forced-dissipative turbulence on the sphere (barotropic, shallow water, and 'global QG'). 

I have previously held postdoctoral positions in Exeter, in Physics (with Matt Browning) and Mathematics (with James Screen). Prior to arriving in Exeter, I completed my DPhil in Atmospheric, Oceanic and Planetary Physics at the University of Oxford, under the supervision of Peter Read. The topic of my thesis was atmospheric circulation on slowly rotating planets (e.g., Venus, Titan) and extrasolar planets.

I welcome opportunities to begin new collaborations; please contact me via email if you have a project idea you'd like to discuss. Additionally, if you would like advice on using Isca for your own work, please reach out!