PhD Studentship: Superminiaturised sensor for space weather measurements

The project:

A novel energetic particle detector has been developed and tested in a range of environments. It uses a small scintillator crystal to both count particles and determine their energy. As well as straightforward radioactivity monitoring, it is useful for space weather and investigating the role of energetic particles in atmospheric processes.

This project will involve further development and testing of this “microscintillator”. A key part of the PhD will be for the student to lead a small production run. The microscintillators will be launched on weather balloons, possibly from multiple sites simultaneously, responding opportunistically to space weather events. Results from these flights, analysed with satellite data, would demonstrate the technology’s capability for space weather monitoring and rapid deployment. Changes to the microscintillator circuitry and software will be needed to improve its performance throughout the project.

The device is also envisaged to be used on spacecraft to monitor sub-systems that are sensitive to space weather. Another part of the project would be to carry out an engineering study to establish a set of requirements for the space application and to develop a prototype design. There may also be opportunities to work with industry on commercial development.

This project is interdisciplinary, and applicants should have a good first degree in engineering, physics or a closely related subject. A first-class degree or equivalent is normally required for success in the highly competitive funding process.

Applicants should have experience of, and enthusiasm for, experimental work through an undergraduate project or similar. Ideally you will also have some background, or interest in, space weather or energetic particles. The project will involve designing and implementing experiments, including testing electronic equipment and circuits, and data analysis in software. Applicants should have, or be ready to learn, these skills and have a proactive attitude to problem-solving.

How to apply:

Prior to submitting an online application, you will need to contact the project supervisor to discuss.

Online applications are made at http://www.bris.ac.uk/pg-howtoapply. Please select Aerospace Engineering on the Programme Choice page. You will be prompted to enter details of the studentship in the Funding and Research Details sections of the form.

Candidate requirements:

Applicants must hold/achieve a minimum of a merit at master’s degree level (or international equivalent) in a science, mathematics or engineering discipline. Applicants without a master's qualification may be considered on an exceptional basis, provided they hold a first-class undergraduate degree. Please note, acceptance will also depend on evidence of readiness to pursue a research degree.

If English is not your first language, you need to meet this profile level: Profile E

Further information about English language requirements and profile levels.

Funding:

Minimum tax-free stipend at the current UKRI rate is £18,622 for 2023/24.Funding to be awarded on a competition basis.

For eligibility and residence requirements please check the UKRI UK Research and Innovation website

Contacts:

For questions about the research topic, please contact Professor Karen Aplin (karen.aplin@bristol.ac.uk)

For questions about eligibility and the application process please contact Engineering Postgraduate Research Admissions admissions-engpgr@bristol.ac.uk

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