Atmospheric and Cloud Dynamics

We offer PhD projects in a variety of topics including weather systems, air-sea interaction, dust storms, mountain weather and climate, thunderstorms and precipitation. We develop advanced computer models, lead major field campaigns, and analyse satellite data.

<p>Within the <a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/atmospheric-cloud-dynamics">Atmospheric and Cloud Dynamics</a> group, we are interested in some of the most important phenomena influencing our weather and climate. We have particular specialisms in the following:</p> <ul> <li>meteorology associated with hills and mountains, in the UK and overseas</li> <li>atmospheric properties in the lowest part of the atmosphere (the boundary layer), over the land and the ocean</li> <li>the behaviour of convective clouds, in particular cumulonimbus clouds and thunderstorms</li> <li>dynamics, microphysics and climatic influence of stratocumulus and cirrus clouds</li> <li>cyclones and fronts in mid-latitudes, rainfall, winds and dynamics</li> <li>tropical weather systems, especially African weather and climate</li> <li>computer modelling of weather and climate</li> </ul> <p>We study a wide range of fundamental science that underpins our physical understanding of the atmosphere. Our work has direct application to areas such as high-impact weather (eg heavy rain and wind-storms) and climate.</p> <p>Our research is grouped into five areas:</p> <ul> <li><a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/atmospheric-cloud-dynamics/doc/air-sea-interaction">Air-Sea Interaction</a></li> <li><a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/atmospheric-cloud-dynamics/doc/dust-storms">Dust Storms</a></li> <li><a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/atmospheric-cloud-dynamics/doc/mountain-weather-climate">Mountain Weather and Climate</a></li> <li><a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/atmospheric-cloud-dynamics/doc/thunderstorms-precipitation">Thunderstorms and Precipitation</a></li> <li><a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/atmospheric-cloud-dynamics/doc/weather-systems">Weather Systems</a></li> </ul> <p>A wide range of excellent atmospheric science research which takes place in Leeds, much of it within <a aria-label="Link ICAS" href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/institute-climate-atmospheric-science" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank" title="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/institute-climate-atmospheric-science">ICAS</a>. Many ICAS staff and students are also members of the new Priestley International Centre for Climate, which is located within our building.</p> <p>Within ICAS PhD students play a full role in the institute activities. We have a lively programme of internal and external seminars, weekly weather briefings, annual science meetings and other events. Our students regularly win prizes for their work, including presentations at international conferences.</p> <h5>Why do your PhD at Leeds?</h5> <p><strong>Study in an active research environment </strong><br /> Studying your PhD with us means you’ll be working in a professional research environment, using UK-leading facilities to bring your project to life – alongside active researchers who are at the forefront of their area. <br /> <strong>A strong network of support  </strong><br /> The Leeds Doctoral College connects our community of researchers and can offer you the guidance, services and opportunities you’ll need to get the most out of your PhD. <br /> <strong>Close industry links </strong><br /> Our partnerships and links to companies and academic institutions give you the opportunity to network at industry talks, seminars and conferences, building connections that'll benefit your next steps after you complete your PhD. <br /> <strong>Professional skills development  </strong><br /> We think of the whole picture at Leeds. That’s why we offer a range of workshops and courses that'll enhance your skillset further and transfer into your professional career. <br /> <strong>Personal and wellbeing services </strong><br /> Mental health and wellbeing support are integral to who we are at Leeds and you’ll have access to the full range of services we offer to ensure you’re feeling your best – and reaching your potential in your studies. <br /> <strong>Join our global community </strong><br /> We welcome students, researchers, academics, partners and alumni from more than 140 countries, all over the world. This means, as a university, we’re bringing together different cultures and perspectives which helps strengthen our research – and societal impact.</p> <h3>Useful links and further reading:</h3> <ul> <li><a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/see-research-degrees">Research degrees within the School of Earth and Environment</a></li> <li><a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/atmospheric-cloud-dynamics">Atmospheric and Cloud Dynamics</a><a href="http://environment.leeds.ac.uk/atmospheric-cloud-dynamics"> group</a></li> <li><a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/see-research-innovation">School of Earth and Environment, Research and Innovation</a> </li> </ul> <h3>Leeds Doctoral College</h3> <p>Our <a aria-label="Link Doctoral College" href="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-leeds-doctoral-college" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank" title="https://www.leeds.ac.uk/research-leeds-doctoral-college">Doctoral College</a> supports you throughout your postgraduate research journey. It brings together all the support services and opportunities to enhance your research, development and overall experience.</p>

<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>.</p>

<p>For queries relating to your research proposal or subject area, please contact <a href="https://environment.leeds.ac.uk/see/staff/1586/mollie-van-der-gucht">Mollie van der Gucht</a>.</p> <p>For general enquiries and details regarding the application process, please contact the Graduate School Office:<br /> e: <a href="mailto:env-pgr@leeds.ac.uk">env-pgr@leeds.ac.uk</a>, t: +44 (0)113 343 1314.</p>