PhD Studentship: Exploring the impact of misalignment on the appearance of black holes

Supervisory Team: Prof Middleton, Prof Altamirano

PhD Supervisor: Matt Middleton

Project description:

Black holes grow by accreting material through a disc which is bright across the EM spectrum. There is good theoretical and observational evidence that the accretion disc will likely be misaligned with the spin axis of the black hole although this is presently hard to pin down due to a lack of models which deal with such an effect. Due to misalignment, the resulting general relativistic effect of frame dragging leads to Lense-Thirring torques which drive an increase in the accretion rate onto the hole itself and changes the way it should appear at high photon energies. The details of this process can be explored both analytically and numerically, the latter using simulations of magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) with radiation and GR explicitly included. Using analytical descriptions of accretion, the student will create the first model which describes the emission from a misaligned accretion disc, apply this to data from X-ray satellites and attempt to constrain misalignment directly. The student will also have the opportunity to explore new GR-RMHD simulations which are being carried out by Prof Middleton’s group and explore misaligned accretion at super-Eddington rates.

If you wish to discuss any details of the project informally, please contact:

Prof Middleton, Astronomy Research Group, Email: m.j.middleton@soton.ac.uk.

Entry Requirements

A very good undergraduate degree (at least a UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent).

Closing date: 31 August 2025.

Applications will be considered in the order that they are received, the position will be considered filled when a suitable candidate has been identified.

Funding: We offer a range of funding opportunities for both UK and international students, including Bursaries and Scholarships.  For more information please visit PhD Scholarships | Doctoral College | University of Southampton  Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis, so apply early for the best opportunity to be considered.

How To Apply

Apply online by clicking the 'Apply' button, above.

Select programme type (Research), 2025/26, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, next page select “PhD Physics (Full time)”.

In Section 2 of the application form you should insert the name of the supervisor: 
Matt Middleton

Applications should include:

• Research Proposal
• Curriculum Vitae
• Two reference letters
• Degree Transcripts/Certificates to date

For further information please contact: feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk

The School of Physics is committed to promoting equality, diversity inclusivity as demonstrated by our Athena SWAN award. We welcome all applicants regardless of their gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation or age, and will give full consideration to applicants seeking flexible working patterns and those who have taken a career break. The University has a generous maternity policy, onsite childcare facilities, and offers a range of benefits to help ensure employees’ well-being and work-life balance. The University of Southampton is committed to sustainability and has been awarded the Platinum EcoAward. 

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