This PhD project will explore the role of the pre-flare atmosphere in producing fine-scale structure observed along solar flare ribbons. Both observational analysis and numerical modelling approaches will feature, though the overall emphasis of each technique can be guided by the candidate’s preference and experience. Data sources include high-resolution observations from NASA’s Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS), and NASA/ESA’s Solar Orbiter, and the Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope (DKIST). Modelling resources include the RADYN, RH, and STiC numerical models. The work will also make predictions for future missions like NASA’s Multi-slit Solar Explorer (MUSE), to be launched in 2027. The potential exists for collaborations between colleagues in Europe or the USA, including NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, the University of Oslo, and Stockholm University.
The candidate should have a previous degree in physics, astronomy or mathematics and ideally have some programming experience (particularly in Python, but IDL, C and Fortran would also useful).
This project is funded via a Royal Society University Research Fellowship, covering stipend for 4 years, commensurate with the UKRI rate, fees for a UK student, and research expenses (travel and computing).
Details of this project and the application process, and information about other potentially funded projects, are available at https://www.astro.gla.ac.uk/. Applications are due by 16th February 2026.