Physics and Astronomy (Solar and Stellar Physics Specialism)

Description

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We are international leaders in the fields of helioseismology and asteroseismology, the study of the interior of the Sun and stars by observation of their natural modes of oscillation.
Our solar studies are allowing crucial inferences to be drawn regarding solar and stellar evolution theory, with direct implications for fields such as fundamental particle physics and cosmology. We are providing insight into the origin and nature of the solar activity cycle, and the link between the deep solar interior and surface of the Sun, with knock-on implications for understanding solar input to global climate change and solar-terrestrial relations. The solar work involves use of all the world-leading datasets, such as our own BiSON network data, and data from the ESA/NASA SoHo satellite and the US-run GONG network. We also have a grant to support analysis of helioseismology data from the upcoming NASA SDO satellite.

Type of Course: Doctoral research

Duration: PhD: 3.5 years full-time; MPhil: 1 year full-time

Contents

Our asteroseismology programme covers different types of pulsating stars, including stars that show Sun-like oscillations, and we are analysing data from international ground-based campaigns and new satellites. We have made important discoveries concerning oscillations of red giant stars, using data from the SMEI instrument on the US Air Force Coriolis satellite, and are now studying oscillations on Beta-Cephei and Gamma-Doradus stars.

Related links

School of Physics and Astronomy website:

Requirements

Ensure your qualifications meet our entry requirements for research degrees

To gain admission to a research degree programme (with the exception of the Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine (MD)) an applicant must comply with the following entry requirements:

* Attainment of an Honours degree (normally a First or Upper Second Class Honours degree or equivalent) in a relevant subject awarded by an approved university, or
* Attainment of an alternative qualification or qualifications and/or evidence of experience judged by the University as indicative of an applicants potential for research and as satisfactory for the purpose of entry to a research degree programme.

In addition:

* Admission and registration for a research degree programme may be conditional on satisfactory completion of preliminary study, which may include assessment.
* In some cases you will also need to have completed a Masters degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant subject.

Please note

* Entry onto many programmes is highly competitive, therefore we consider the skills, attributes, motivation and potential for success of an individual when deciding whether to make an offer.
* Specific entry requirements are given for each programme. Any academic and professional qualifications or industrial experience you may have are normally taken into account, and in some cases form an integral part of the entrance requirements. If your qualifications are non-standard or different from the entry requirements stated in the online prospectus, please contact the relevant school or department to discuss whether your application would be considered.
* After we have received your application you may, if you live in the UK, be invited for an interview or to visit us to discuss your application.

English Language Requirements

IMPORTANT NOTE: Since April 2014 the ETS tests (including TOEFL and TOEIC) are no longer accepted for Tier 4 visa applications to the United Kingdom. The university might still accept these tests to admit you to the university, but if you require a Tier 4 visa to enter the UK and begin your degree programme, these tests will not be sufficient to obtain your Visa.

The IELTS test is most widely accepted by universities and is also accepted for Tier 4 visas to the UK- learn more.

Funding

Scholarships and studentships We have a number of studentships supported by the UK research councils EPSRC and STFC available each year, including some CASE awards. These studentships cover the costs of tuition fees and provide a subsistence allowance for 3.5 years. They are available to UK nationals with at least an upper second-class Honours degree from a UK university, or equivalent. Preference is usually given to those holding four-year MPhys or MSci degrees.
We offer about half a dozen postgraduate teaching assistantships each year as top-ups to EPSRC and STFC studentships. There are also substantial opportunities for postgraduate demonstrators. EU nationals may be eligible for fees-only awards, which are occasionally supplemented by the School.
International students can often gain funding through overseas research scholarships, Commonwealth scholarships or their home government.

See the University of Birmingham Website for more details on fees and funding.