PhD Studentship: Does the Earth magnetic field spin up the polar vortex in the outer core?

Introduction

Magnetic fields shield planetary surfaces, a precondition for supporting life. Yet, the dynamo process which produces them remains one of the greatest mysteries of modern physics. Mounting evidence of the existence of an intense polar vortex in the Earth's liquid core (within the Tangent Cylinder, see figures) raises the questions of this vortex's origin and role in the dynamo (see representation of streamlines inferred from geomagnetic data, from Finlay et al. Nat. Rev. Earth Environ., 4:377–392, 2023 and numerical simulations by Schaeffer et al. Geophys. J. Int., 211(1):1–29, 2017).

This ambitious project tackles the long-standing challenge of understanding how convective flows in liquid planetary cores generate and sustain the magnetic fields of planets through the dynamo process. The project explores the radically new idea that large vortices in the polar region of the liquid core of the Earth are spun up by the magnetic field itself and that this mechanism may contribute to the Earth's dynamo.

Project details

The successful candidate will combine numerical simulations of existing and new magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) models implemented in our in-house code, with experiments using the Little Earth Experiment (LEE, see figure), our unique transparent model of the Earth's Core, to pinpoint the regime where the spin-up can occur and determine whether it can lead to a dynamo. LEE is currently the only device in the world where convective flows, such as those in the Earth's liquid core, incorporating both the effects of the Earth's rotation and of its magnetic field, can be reproduced and visualised. It operates both in FCS's laboratory and at the high magnetic field laboratory in Grenoble (France), in some of the most powerful magnets in the world. This project offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the field of planetary science and to develop a world-leading expertise in geophysical, numerical and experimental fluid dynamics. The successful candidate will also be able to develop an extensive scientific network by working with the best experts in the field worldwide.

Benefits

The successful candidate will receive comprehensive research training including technical, personal and professional skills. All researchers at Coventry University (from PhD to Professor) are part of the Doctoral College and Centre for Research Capability and Development, which provides support with high-quality training and career development activities.

The successful applicant will work under the supervision of Professor Alban Potherat. Applications are invited for a PhD position in Geophysical Fluid Dynamics within the project "Does the Earth's magnetic field spin out the polar vortex in the outer core?", funded by the Leverhulme Trust, at the Research Centre for Fluid and Complex Systems (FCS) at Coventry University. The Leverhulme Trust funds fundamental research projects selected for their high significance and originality. 

Entry requirements

• A minimum of a 2:1 first degree in a relevant discipline/subject area with a minimum 60% mark in the project element or equivalent with a minimum 60% overall module average.

• The potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within 3.5 years.

How to apply

To find out more about the project, please contact Professor Alban Potherat

All applications require full supporting documentation, a covering letter, plus a 500 word supporting statement showing how the applicant’s expertise and interests are relevant to the project.

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