About the Project
This project is one of a number that are in competition for funding from the NERC Great Western Four+ Doctoral Training Partnership (GW4+ DTP). The GW4+ DTP consists of the Great Western Four alliance of the University of Bath, University of Bristol, Cardiff University and the University Exeter plus six Research Organisation partners: British Antarctic Survey, British Geological Survey, Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, the Met Office, the Natural History Museum and Plymouth Marine Laboratory. The partnership aims to provide a broad training in earth and environmental sciences, designed to train tomorrow’s leaders in earth and environmental science. For further details, see https://nercgw4plus.ac.uk/
Supervisory team –
Lead supervisor: Dr Corwin Wright, Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, University of Bath
Co-supervisor: Dr Daniel Mitchell, School of Geographical Sciences, University of Bristol
Project background -
Sudden stratospheric warmings (SSWs) are one of the most dramatic events in the atmosphere. Over only a few days, stratospheric temperatures can shoot up 30-50°C, while the high altitude jet stream stops and sometimes even reverses. However, SSWs are hard to predict. This is a problem because they affect surface weather over the following weeks, making them important for accurate weather forecasting.
“Waves and Warmings” will investigate the role of small-scale atmospheric waves in SSWs. These waves, generated near the ground, significantly affect how SSWs form and develop. New measurement techniques will allow us for the first time to measure key wave properties which determine how this happens, including their speeds and direction. We will measure these properties, then determine if they are represented in models to understand more about the mechanisms. The ultimate goal is to improve our theoretical understanding of SSWs and hence to improve predictability.
This collaborative/interdisciplinary project combines expertise in observational atmospheric science from the lead supervisor at Bath with the modelling and atmospheric dynamics skills of the co-supervisor at Bristol, allowing the student to pursue post-graduation opportunities across the full range of the atmospheric sciences.
Project aim -
To improve the forecasting of sudden stratospheric warmings, by:
i. Measuring atmospheric gravity and planetary waves in the polar troposphere, stratosphere and mesosphere to produce the definitive climatology of wave properties in polar region with current technology (at Bath)
ii. Using these measurements to improve how these waves are simulated in polar winter (at Bristol)
iii. Assessing the response in model performance as a result of implementing these changes (using the experience gained from both institutions in the relevant theoretical science and use of observational constraints).
Project methods -
The project will use an unusually wide range of methods, giving the student the chance to develop a broad skillset and giving them extensive options for their post-graduation career.
On the observational side, world-leading new measurement techniques developed by the supervisory team for the analysis of satellite observations and radar data will be used and, if time permits, extended upon. This will include the use of high-performance computing resources at Bath.
On the modelling side, the student will use the one of the world’s most advanced global climate models, HadGEM3 (also known as the Unified Model), to simulation SSWs, analyse and understand model output, and quantify any improvements in how the model performs so that we can further understand the stratosphere-troposphere connection.
Candidate requirements -
The project would suit a student with a background in a mathematical or physical science, with an interest in the atmosphere or weather in general and in developing skills in both observational data analysis and weather/climate modelling. Prior atmospheric-science knowledge is beneficial but not necessary.
Applications –
Candidates should apply using the relevant University of Bath online application form: https://www.bath.ac.uk/study/pg/applications.pl
When completing the form, please state in the ‘Finance’ section that you wish to be considered for GW4+ DTP funding and quote the project title and lead supervisor’s name in the ‘Your research interests’ section. You may apply for more than one project if you wish but you should submit a separate personal statement for each one.
More information on how to apply may be found here:
https://www.bath.ac.uk/guides/how-to-apply-for-doctoral-study/
Anticipated start date: 30 September 2019.
Funding Notes
NERC GW4+ DTP funding is for 3.5 years and is open to UK and EU applicants who have been resident in the UK since September 2016. A limited number of studentships may be available for EU applicants not meeting the residency requirement.
A studentship will provide UK/EU tuition fees, maintenance in line with the UKRI Doctoral stipend rate (£14,777 per annum, 2018/19 rate) and a generous budget for research expenses and training.
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