Dynamic Accretion Discs in Astrophysics

PGR-P-2076

Key facts

Type of research degree: PhD
Application deadline: Ongoing deadline
Project start date: Wednesday 1 October 2025
Country eligibility: International (open to all nationalities, including the UK)
Funding: Non-funded
Supervisors: Dr Christopher Nixon
Schools: School of Physics and Astronomy
Research groups/institutes: Astrophysics

<h2 class="heading hide-accessible">Summary</h2>

Accretion discs are a basic building block of many astrophysical systems. The discs that are observed around young stars are where planets form, and those found around white dwarfs, neutron stars and black holes generate spectacular luminosities and variability. It is now possible to develop sophisticated numerical models for the behaviour of these discs, but there is still much to be understood. 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 state-of-the-art 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.

<h2 class="heading">How to apply</h2>

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 PHD Physics & Astronomy FT, in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is Dynamic Accretion Discs in Astrophysics as well as <a href="https://eps.leeds.ac.uk/physics/staff/12402/dr-chris-nixon">Chris Nixon</a> as your proposed supervisor and in the finance section, please state clearly the funding that you are applying for, if you are self-funding or externally sponsored. If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University's minimum English language requirements (below). 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. <meta charset="UTF-8" />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. <meta charset="UTF-8" /> Please note that you must provide the following documents in support of your application by the closing date of Friday 13 December 2024 if applying for the Bell Burnell Scholarship, Monday 6 January 2025 if applying for the China Scholarship Council-University of Leeds Scholarship, Monday 3 February 2025 if applying for Leeds Doctoral Scholarship or Tuesday 1 April 2025 for Leeds Opportunity Research Scholarship. If you are applying with external sponsorship or you are funding your own study, please ensure you provide your supporting documents at the point you submit your application: <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> <li>Up to date contact details for two academic referees – please note that this must be the institution email address where your referee is employed</li> </ul>

<h2 class="heading heading--sm">Entry requirements</h2>

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.

<h2 class="heading heading--sm">English language requirements</h2>

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.

<h2 class="heading">Funding on offer</h2>

<h2 class="heading">Contact details</h2>