Tidal flows in extrasolar planets and stars

Since 1995 astronomers have discovered and partially characterised several thousand extrasolar planets. Many planets have masses similar to Jupiter's, and orbit their host stars in only a few Earth days -- a fascinating class of planets that we refer to as hot Jupiters. Since these planets orbit their stars very closely, gravitational tidal interactions can determine the orbit and the internal rotations of the planet and its host star. For example, the closest planets, that orbit their stars in less than 10 Earth days, preferentially have circular orbits, while those that orbit their stars more distantly tend to have eccentric orbits. This is thought to be explained by the dissipation of tidal flows inside these planets. These (and related) observations motivate theoretical work to understand tidal flows inside planets and stars, to determine and elucidate the mechanisms by which they may dissipate. This requires understanding the fluid dynamics and magnetohydrodynamics of tidal flows including the effects of rotation, stratification, convection and magnetic fields. This project will investigate some of these effects using a combination of computer simulations and theoretical (analytical) calculations, with the aim to understand tidal flows in stars and in the fluid layers of planets.<br /> <br />

<p>The group in Leeds is one of the leading groups in the field of <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/maths-astrophysical-geophysical-fluid-dynamics">Astrophysical and Geophysical Fluid Dynamics</a> and is actively engaged in research on a wide range of topics including planetary and extrasolar planetary dynamics (the geodynamo, planetary dynamos, tidal interactions between planets and stars, planet formation), solar and stellar dynamics (solar and stellar dynamos, hydrodynamic and magnetohydrodynamic instabilities, turbulence), as well as galactic and extragalactic dynamics on the largest scales. Although this project does not have dedicated funding, all successful applicants without funding will be considered for both STFC funding, and for a fully-funded scholarship in an open competition across the entire School of Maths.</p> <p> </p>

<p>Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the <a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/info/130206/applying/91/applying_for_research_degrees">University's website</a>. Please state clearly in the Planned Course of Study section that you are applying for <em><strong>PHD Applied Mathematics FT,</strong></em> in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is <em><strong>Tidal flows in extrasolar planets and stars</strong></em> as well as <a href="https://physicalsciences.leeds.ac.uk/staff/6/dr-adrian-j-barker">Dr Adrian Barker</a> as your proposed supervisor and in the finance section, the funding source you wish to be considered for is <em><strong>STFC Doctoral Training Partnership Studentship 2025/26</strong></em>.</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 style="margin-bottom:11px"><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 class="MsoNoSpacing">Applications will be considered after the closing date.  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 class="MsoNoSpacing">Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of Friday 28 February 2025:</p> <ul> <li>Full Transcripts of all degree study or if in final year of study, full transcripts to date</li> <li>Personal Statement outlining your interest in the project</li> <li>CV</li> </ul>

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 style="margin-bottom:12px">A highly competitive STFC Doctoral Training Partnership Studentship providing the award of full academic fees, together with a tax-free maintenance grant (currently £19,237 for academic session 2024/25) for 3.5 years. Training and support will also be provided.<br /> <br /> This opportunity is open to all applicants. All candidates will be placed into the STFC Doctoral Training Partnership Studentship Competition and selection is based on academic merit.</p> <p><strong>Important: </strong>Please note that that the award does <em><strong>not</strong></em> cover the costs associated with moving to the UK.  All such costs (<a href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/international-visas-immigration/doc/applying-student-visa">visa, Immigration Health Surcharge</a>, flights etc) would have to be met by yourself, or you will need to find an alternative funding source. </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.</p>

<p>For further information about your application, please contact PGR Admissions by email to <a href="mailto:EMAIL@leeds.ac.uk">m</a><a href="mailto:maps.pgr.admissions@leeds.ac.uk">aps.pgr.admissions@leeds.ac.uk</a></p> <p>For further information about this project, please contact Dr Adrian Barker by email to <a href="mailto:A.J.Barker@leeds.ac.uk">A.J.Barker@leeds.ac.uk</a></p>