Project Description
Herschel observations have revealed that every interstellar giant molecular cloud contains a rich network of filaments (e.g. Andre et al. 2010 A&A 518 L102). There is also a clear correlation between the magnetic field orientations and the density gradients of the filaments (e.g. Soler et al. 2013 ApJ 774 128). However, the origin of the filaments remains a subject of debate, although it is likely due to magnetohydrodynamical (MHD) flows interacting with gravity. Through a set of simulations, the proposed work will address the following questions: 1) how does ambipolardiffusion affect filament formation and is it responsible for setting a characteristic filament width; 2) why does that width depend on tracer?; 3) how do the magnetic field and density structures correlate at different length scales and for different filament masses?
For further information regarding your application, please contact Doctoral College Admissions:
e: [email protected], t: +44 (0)113 343 5057
For specific scientific enquiries about the project, please contact Dr Van Loo:
Funding Information
Self-funded applicants or applicants with external funding are welcome to apply.
Eligibility Requirements
If English is not your first language, you must provide evidence that you meet the University’s minimum English language requirements (below).
Applicants to research degree programmes should normally have at least a first class or an upper second class British Bachelors Honours degree (or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline. The criteria for entry for some research degrees may be higher, for example, several faculties, also require a Masters degree. Applicants are advised to check with the relevant School prior to making an application. Applicants who are uncertain about the requirements for a particular research degree are advised to contact the School or Graduate School prior to making an application.
English language requirements: The minimum English language entry requirement for research postgraduate research study is an IELTS of 6.0 overall with at least 5.5 in each component (reading, writing, listening and speaking) or equivalent. The test must be dated within two years of the start date of the course in order to be valid. Some schools and faculties have a higher requirement.
Application Process
Formal applications for research degree study should be made online through the University’s website. Please state clearly in the research information section that the research degree you wish to be considered for is Dust and gas filaments in the Interstellar Medium as well as Dr Sven Van Loo as your proposed supervisor.
Supplementary Information
We welcome applications from all suitably-qualified candidates, but UK black and minority ethnic (BME) researchers are currently under-represented in our Postgraduate Research community, and we would therefore particularly encourage applications from UK BME candidates. All scholarships will be awarded on the basis of merit.
