PhD Studentship: Extreme Space Weather: Modeling Rare Solar Storms and Their Impacts on Earth

Supervisor: Dr Ravindra Desai, University of Warwick

Space weather is driven by eruptions of plasma from the Sun’s surface called coronal mass ejections. Upon arrival at Earth, these not only extend the northern and southern lights to low latitudes but can knock out satellites, communications and entire power grids. Extreme events with low return periods are especially important for power plants where 1 in 10,000 year risk levels are required to be mitigated for. Through collaboration with EDF Energy’s Natural Hazards R&D Team, this project will utilise and develop state-of-the-art space simulations to probe past, present and future events to constrain extreme value distributions spanning hundreds to thousands of years.

About HetSys: Harnessing Data, Modelling and Simulation for Real‑World Impact

HetSys (Centre for Doctoral Training in Modelling of Heterogeneous Systems) at the University of Warwick is an innovative, interdisciplinary fully funded PhD programme that brings together science, engineering, and mathematics to tackle some of the most pressing challenges of our time.

• Big Questions, Real Impact – From climate modelling and sustainable energy to advanced materials and biomedical systems, HetSys projects apply cutting‑edge computational and mathematical techniques to problems with global significance.

• Interdisciplinary Training – Students gain expertise across physics, engineering, computer science, and applied mathematics, developing versatile skills that open doors to both academia and industry.

• Collaborative Environment – Work alongside leading researchers and industry partners in a supportive, vibrant community that values curiosity, creativity, and collaboration.

• Future‑Focused Careers – HetSys graduates are equipped with highly sought‑after skills in modelling, simulation, and data science, preparing them for impactful careers in research, technology, and beyond.

If you’re excited by the idea of using advanced modelling and simulation to solve complex, real‑world problems, HetSys offers the perfect environment to push boundaries and make a difference.

Funding Details

Awards for UK, EU, International applicants cover full University fees, give a research training budget and a tax-free stipend to cover living costs (standard UKRI rate £20780 in 25/26 - equivalent to national living wage)