Stellar Hydrodynamics

Prof Hirschi and his group combine 3D hydrodynamics and 1D stellar evolution simulations to further our understanding of the evolution and fate of stars. The group also uses stellar models as virtual nuclear physics laboratory to establish the impact of nuclear reaction rate uncertainties and also guide future nuclear physics experimental and theoretical efforts. The advertised PhD project will focus on large-scale 3-dimensional (3D) hydrodynamics simulations of convection in the late phases of stellar evolution. This project will involve running large-scale simulations and analysing the results in the context of the Reynolds-Average Navier-Stokes framework and Kolmogorov’s turbulence theory. The successful candidate will join this research effort at the boundary between hydrodynamics, astro- and nuclear physics. She/he will also learn key computing skills and be exposed to the industry, which will give her/him a strong skills set for both an academic and an industrial career. This PhD project will run in parallel to the COST Action entitled “Chemical Elements as Tracers of the Evolution of the Cosmos” (ChETEC), which is chaired by Prof Hirschi.
see http://www.chetec.eu for more details). The ChETEC COST Action will offer great opportunities (training, networking, collaborations with both academic and industrial partners) for the successful candidate. Candidates with a degree in Mathematics or Computer Sciences and a background in fluid dynamics are strongly encouraged to apply.

For informal enquiries on this project contact Professor Raphael Hirschi by email: [Email Address Removed]. Other projects related to massive star evolution and nucleosynthesis are also possible.

PhD available from September 2019 (flexible)

Please quote FNS GS 2019-12 on your application and project title " Stellar Hydrodynamics" (Prof Raphael Hirschi)

Keele University values diversity, and is committed to ensuring equality of opportunity. In support of these commitments, Keele University particularly welcomes applications from women and from individuals of black and ethnic minority backgrounds for this post. The School of Chemical and Physical Sciences and Keele University have both been awarded Athena Swan awards and Keele University is a member of the Disability Confident scheme. More information is available on these web pages:

https://www.keele.ac.uk/equalitydiversity/
https://www.keele.ac.uk/athenaswan/
https://www.keele.ac.uk/raceequalitycharter/disabilityconfident