PhD Study : Aeolian ripple dynamics on Mars: remote sensing and airflow modelling using earth analogues

Summary

Small-scale wind-blown features are widespread sedimentary indicators of local wind dynamics on Mars and could potentially be a unique source of information on Martian wind regimes given the possibility to monitor them with time series of Remotely Sensed imagery, using  advanced techniques for registration and correlation of optical  images. However ripple genesis and their movement in relation to surface winds is still poorly understood.

To investigate this, the student will measure ripple migration in dune fields on Mars and Earth and compare this with air flow calculated with 3D computer  simulations of winds. Such simulations require high quality Digital Terrain Models to be generated. The 3D shape of dunes derived from standard  photogrammetry is however insufficient due to the ‘smoothing’ effect of these techniques, leading to uncertainty in the interaction of modelled airflow over dune features and sediment dynamics.  Recent advances in satellite photogrammetric techniques applicable to Mars data however, now allows better re-construction of surface features to provide improved surface topography for airflow modelling and investigation of ripple movements on dune surfaces.

Using these new surface models, computer simulations  of airflow will be used to model airflow and sand flux to better understand sediment transport and changes in dune forms over time. The project will compare modelled scenarios with direct field observations on Earth using similar desert dunes (e.g. Saudi Arabia) and combine high resolution earth observation (Planetlabs Images), drone imagery, ground sensor measurements and time-series observations of surface winds and sand flux. These data will elucidate heterogeneous surface roughness for improved computer modelling of airflow, and will allow direct comparisons between ripple migration and air flow on both Earth and Mars.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• A comprehensive and articulate personal statement
• A demonstrable interest in the research area associated with the studentship

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• First Class Honours (1st) Degree
• Research project completion within taught Masters degree or MRES
• Practice-based research experience and/or dissemination
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Work experience relevant to the proposed project
• Publications record appropriate to career stage
• Experience of presentation of research findings
• Use of personal initiative as evidenced by record of work above that normally expected at career stage.

Funding and eligibility

The University offers the following levels of support:

Vice Chancellors Research Studentship (VCRS)

The following scholarship options are available to applicants worldwide:

• Full Award: (full-time tuition fees + £19,000 (tbc))
• Part Award: (full-time tuition fees + £9,500)
• Fees Only Award: (full-time tuition fees)

These scholarships will cover full-time PhD tuition fees for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance) and will provide a £900 per annum research training support grant (RTSG) to help support the PhD researcher.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Please note: you will automatically be entered into the competition for the Full Award, unless you state otherwise in your application.

Department for the Economy (DFE)

The scholarship will cover tuition fees at the Home rate and a maintenance allowance of £19,000 (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).

This scholarship also comes with £900 per annum for three years as a research training support grant (RTSG) allocation to help support the PhD researcher.

• Candidates with pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, who also satisfy a three year residency requirement in the UK prior to the start of the course for which a Studentship is held MAY receive a Studentship covering fees and maintenance.
• Republic of Ireland (ROI) nationals who satisfy three years’ residency in the UK prior to the start of the course MAY receive a Studentship covering fees and maintenance (ROI nationals don’t need to have pre-settled or settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme to qualify).
• Other non-ROI EU applicants are ‘International’ are not eligible for this source of funding.
• Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies. Further information on cost of living