Modelling the Partially Ionised Solar Chromosphere - PhD (STFC funded) Ref: 5826

Supervisors

Professor Andrew Hillier , Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Exeter

The solar chromosphere is of great importance for understanding the energy flow and dissipation mechanisms in the solar atmosphere. We understand that magnetic forces are crucial in this layer, but the plasma is only partially ionised making the couple between the plasma and the magnetic field imperfect. In this project the student will explore and develop models of the coupling between the magnetic field and the fluid of the chromosphere to understand how observed dynamic phenomena are created and how the friction between charged species moving with the magnetic field plays a role in the heating of the chromosphere.

The project will involve combining numerical modelling, theory, and observations to understand how fundamental magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) phenomena develop in a partially ionised system including regimes beyond those where a single fluid approximation holds. The work of this project will connect to the efforts in the group on the Solar Atmospheric Modelling Suite Project, a project to build the next-generation modelling tool to study the solar atmosphere, led by Prof Hillier.

The University of Exeter’s Department of Mathematics and Statistics is inviting applications for a PhD studentship funded by STFC to commence on 21st September 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.  For eligible students the studentship will cover Home or International tuition fees plus an annual tax-free stipend of at least £21,805 for 3.5 years full-time, or pro rata for part-time study.  The student would be based in the department of Mathematics & Statistics in the Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy at the Streatham Campus in Exeter. International applicants need to be aware that they will have to cover the cost of their student visa, healthcare surcharge and other costs of moving to the UK to do a PhD.

Entry requirements

Applicants for this studentship must have obtained, or be about to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class UK Honours degree, or the equivalent qualifications gained outside the UK, in an appropriate area of Mathematics, Physics or Natural Sciences.

If English is not your first language you will need to meet the English language requirements and provide proof of proficiency. Click here for more information.

How to apply

Apply now

To apply, please click the ‘Apply Now’ button above. In the application process you will be asked to upload several documents.

•            CV

•            Letter of application (outlining your academic interests, prior research experience and reasons for wishing to undertake the project).

•            Transcript(s) giving full details of subjects studied and grades/marks obtained (this should be an interim transcript if you are still studying)

•            Names of two referees familiar with your academic work. You are not required to obtain references yourself. We will request references directly from your referees if you are shortlisted.

•            If you are not a national of a majority English-speaking country you will need to submit evidence of your proficiency in English.

The closing date for applications is midnight on 11^th March 2026.  Interviews will be held virtually in the weeks commencing 16^th and 23^rd March.

All application documents must be submitted in English. Certified translated copies of academic qualifications must also be provided.

Please quote reference 5826 on your application and in any correspondence about this studentship.

Summary