Key facts
- Type of research degree
- PhD
- Application deadline
- Ongoing deadline
- Country eligibility
- International (open to all nationalities, including the UK)
- Funding
- Non-funded
- Supervisors
- Dr Christopher Nixon and Dr Julian Pittard
- Additional supervisors
- Dr. Chris Nixon will be primary supervisor, Dr. Julian Pittard will be co-supervisor
- Schools
- School of Physics and Astronomy
- Research groups/institutes
- Astrophysics
Accretion discs are a basic building block of many astrophysical systems. They are the birth sites of stars and planets, they form around stars both young and old, and they surround supermassive black holes in active galaxies and quasars. We aim to understand the dynamics of these discs, and use this understanding to explain the evolution of astrophysical systems. We develop new numerical tools and methodology, and we connect our theoretical results with the latest observational data.<br /> <br /> This project seeks to develop our understanding of accretion disc dynamics through both analytical and numerical modelling. This will build on our existing research using sophisticated numerical simulation codes on both local and national high-performance computing (HPC) facilities. The aim is to develop theoretical models that can be used to understand observational data from accreting systems. Accretion discs are fundamental to many astrophysical systems, so we anticipate applying these models to a range of systems from protoplanetary discs around young stars to matter orbiting black holes.
<p>Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-applying/doc/applying-research-degrees">University's website</a>. Please state clearly in the Planned Course of Study section that you are applying for <em><strong>PHD Physics & Astronomy FT</strong></em> and in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is <em><strong>Dynamic accretion discs in astrophysics</strong></em> as well as Dr Chris Nixon as your proposed supervisor.</p> <p>If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below).</p> <p><em>As an international research-intensive university, we welcome students from all walks of life and from across the world. We foster an inclusive environment where all can flourish and prosper, and we are proud of our strong commitment to student education. Across all Faculties we are dedicated to diversifying our community and we welcome the unique contributions that individuals can bring, and particularly encourage applications from, but not limited to Black, Asian, people who belong to a minority ethnic community, people who identify as LGBT+ and people with disabilities. Applicants will always be selected based on merit and ability.</em></p> <p>Applications will be considered on an ongoing basis. Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to contact the supervisors for an informal discussion before making a formal application. We also advise that you apply at the earliest opportunity as the application and selection process may close early, should we receive a sufficient number of applications or that a suitable candidate is appointed.</p> <p>Please note that you must provide the following documents at the point you submit your application:</p> <p>• Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date<br /> • Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project<br /> • CV<br /> • Funding information including any alternative sources of funding that you are applying for or if you are able to pay your own fees and maintenance<br /> </p>
Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.
The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.
<p><strong>Self-Funded or externally sponsored students are welcome to apply.</strong></p> <p><strong>UK</strong> – The Leeds Doctoral Scholarships and Leeds Opportunity Research Scholarship are available to UK applicants. The Bell Burnell Scholarship Award is available to support applicants who are from groups that are currently under-represented in physics (awarded by the IOP). Alumni Bursary is available to graduates of the University of Leeds.</p> <p><strong>Non-UK</strong> – The School of Physics & Astronomy Partial Fee Scholarship is available to support the additional academic fees of Non-UK applicants. The Bell Burnell Scholarship Award is available to support applicants who are from groups that are currently under-represented in physics (awarded by the IOP). The China Scholarship Council - University of Leeds Scholarship is available to nationals of China. The Leeds Marshall Scholarship is available to support US citizens. Alumni Bursary is available to graduates of the University of Leeds.</p> <p><strong>Important:</strong> Any costs associated with your arrival at the University of Leeds to start your PhD including flights, immigration health surcharge/medical insurance and Visa costs are not covered under this studentship.</p> <p>Please refer to the <a href="https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/">UKCISA</a> website for information regarding Fee Status for Non-UK Nationals.<br /> </p>
<p>For further information please contact Doctoral College Admissions<br /> e: <a href="mailto:EMAIL@leeds.ac.uk">maps.pgr.admissions@leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>For further information about this project please contact Dr. Chris Nixon<br /> e: <a href="mailto:EMAIL@leeds.ac.uk">c.j.nixon@leeds.ac.uk</a></p>