The ‘smoking gun’ – finding the processes that trigger solar explosions

About the Project

The Sun is our closest star, and with space now firmly established as part of our society’s environment, its unique proximity has inescapable consequences for us. While its radiation provides the energy source of our whole ecosystem, our understanding of how the variations in that radiation control, e.g. our climate, still contains huge gaps. As well as the long-term variations in the solar output, the Sun exhibits a cycle of activity the constituents of which are explosive events which release energy. This explosive energy release occurs on a myriad of scales, from nanoflares to huge eruptive flares, which are accompanied by the bulk eruption of plasma and magnetic field known as coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and whose impacts can be seen globally across the Sun and throughout the heliosphere. The most extreme of these events constitute the largest examples of explosive energy release within our solar system, during which upwards of 10²⁶ J of energy is released. Solar explosions are key drivers of space weather, and yet despite their importance, and the extensive range of observations available from space and the ground, reliable signatures for predicting their onset remain elusive. This project is targeted at improving our understanding of what the important physical processes that lead to explosive energy release in the solar atmosphere are, and how they can be observationally identified. The research undertaken will form part of the solar group’s preparatory work for the Solar C EUVST mission currently under development and scheduled for launch around 2030.

Desired Knowledge and Skills

• The project will involve the analysis of existing data from a variety of different space-based missions, including datasets from MSSL-led instruments such as Hinode EIS, and Solar Orbiter EUI, and the student will also have the opportunity to propose and acquire new observations.
• A background in physics, astrophysics, or a related area is desirable, but curious and motivated students with other backgrounds will also be considered.
• Previous experience of data analysis, including programming (e.g. Python), as well as good writing and presentation skills, are also desirable but not essential.

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 May 2026.

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)