The science of space weather: understanding the physics of solar eruptions

About the Project

The Sun regularly produces vast eruptions of magnetised plasma in events known as coronal mass ejections. These eruptions are the most energetic events in the Solar System and the energy required to power them is derived from magnetic field configurations in the atmosphere of the Sun. Understanding why and how coronal mass ejections occur is a major open question in international solar physics and is also a key focus in so-called space weather forecasting, since Earth-directed coronal mass ejections can cause serious impacts. For example, disruption and damage to electricity distribution networks. Due to this the Met Office Space Weather Operations Centre forecasters, and indeed space weather forecasting centres around the world, continuously monitor and forecast space weather conditions. A key product being the risk of severe geomagnetic activity out to 4 days, including expected impacts of any Earth-bound coronal mass ejections. The focus of this project will be to advance our physical understanding of how eruptive magnetic field configurations form and evolve. With a particular focus on the eruption of relatively dense plasma structures known as solar filaments. Their higher plasma density can potentially enhance the geo-effectiveness of these events. Knowledge gained will feed directly into both the science community and the space weather forecasting community through the involvement of the Met Office as a project partner.

Desired Knowledge and Skills

• The project will involve analysing data from both ground and space-based telescopes and will utilise more than two decades of high-quality data that have been obtained including datasets from instruments with major MSSL leadership such as Hinode’s Extreme Ultraviolet Imaging Spectrometer and the Extreme Ultraviolet Imager onboard Solar Orbiter. Techniques will be developed to enable a large study of coronal mass ejection source regions so that statistically significant results can be generated. The successful candidate will need an undergraduate degree in a related subject (such as physics or maths) and have a strong interest in solar physics.
• Strong computational skills in a relevant programming language (ideally Python) will be highly beneficial, although training will be available.
• Good statistical and mathematical skills are required but training will also be given.
• During the project, the candidate will develop skills in data analysis and the application of magnetohydrodynamics to the study of solar eruptions.
• The candidate will also develop a deep knowledge of the international efforts in space weather and will visit the Met Office Space Weather Operations Centre in Exeter. Whilst at the Met Office Space Weather Operations Centre, the candidate will work with the space weather team, learn how space weather forecasts are issued and will develop an understanding of how scientific research is translated to operational space weather forecasting.

Entry requirements

An upper second-class Bachelor’s degree, or a second-class Bachelor’s degree together with a Master's degree from a UK university in a relevant subject, or an equivalent overseas qualification.

Additional information

This project is based in the Department of Space & Climate Physics, located at the Mullard Space Science Laboratory (MSSL) in Holmbury, Surrey. MSSL is located in remote countryside in Surrey. There is limited public transport to reach the site. Before you apply to study for a PhD in our department, please check our location carefully and consider how you will regularly commute to MSSL.

How to apply

Our STFC studentships starting on 1st October 2026 are open for applications until 15th May2026.

For details of how to apply please refer to our website: PhD Projects and Application Process | Faculty of Mathematical & Physical Sciences

Funding Notes

The STFC studentship will pay your full tuition fees and a maintenance allowance for 3.5 years (subject to the PhD upgrade review)