MHD Seismology of the Solar Corona

MHD Seismology of the Solar Corona

Supervisor: Professor Valery M. Nakariakov (CFSA)

Funding: STFC Quota PhD Studentship 2016-2020

The study of magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) waves in the corona of the Sun is one of the most rapidly developing research fields of plasma astrophysics. The waves are detected in all observational bands, from radio to X-ray. The interest in coronal waves is connected with the roles they may play in resolving the enigmatic problems of solar physics, such as coronal plasma heating, solar wind acceleration, physics of solar flares and coronal mass ejections, and also with the use of these waves as natural diagnostic probes of the solar plasma - the method of MHD seismology. The project includes analysis of data obtained with spaceborne (SDO and Solar Orbiter space missions) and ground-based (Siberian Radioheliograph) facilities, development of novel data analysis techniques, theoretical modelling of relevant physical processes, and design and application of novel plasma diagnostic tools. The project will be carried out in collaboration with other members of the MHD wave team, and also with our colleagues in leading international centres of solar coronal physics.

For further information and details of how to apply, please see our postgraduate admissions website: Postgraduate - Department of Physics (warwick.ac.uk)