Coronal Heating by MHD Waves

The question why the Sun’s outer atmosphere (corona) is so much hotter than the solar surface (photosphere) remains one of the most challenging open problems in Solar Physics. Several mechanisms have been proposed, including heating by MHD waves driven either by sub-surface footpoint motions or in-situ generation of waves. Observations have now confirmed an abundance of waves and oscillations throughout the solar atmosphere but whether this wave energy can be converted into thermal energy efficiently is still not clear.

This PhD project would involve building on previous work to model heating by MHD waves. The project will initially rely on existing numerical codes, with the possibility to extend the model further in the future.
The project is suitable for a Physics or Mathematics graduate with an interest in modelling natural systems and who is comfortable with computational work. Knowledge of numerical techniques, Python or Fortan 90, MPI would be useful but not essential as training will be provided in these areas.

STFC funding is available for a PhD project on this subject to start immediately, subject to eligibility.

For more details about the group, please visit our website: http://www-solar.mcs.st-and.ac.uk/.

For information about the School and the application procedure in general, please see: https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/maths/prospective/pg/phdprogrammes/.