Information for PhD Applicants
- General information about PhD projects at Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics
- Information and application for the PhD in Astronomy and Astrophysics
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Projects
I am interested in a variety of research projects related to pulsar astronomy and gravitational wave detection. The projects advertised are mainly intended as general themes and do not represent specific reasarch activites. Projects will generally involve interpreting pulsar observations, making use of advanced data analysis techniques. Naturally, this will often link in to machine learning. I am happy to take on students with a range of backgrounds. Those with a strong computational background will likely be interested in developing and testing new algorithms, while those with a more observational background will be interested in the interpretation of pulsar observations and the development of new observing strategies.
I often work across both high precision timing for gravitational wave analysis (via pulsar timing arrays) and understanding the broader pulsar population. I believe that the highly analytical methods developed for precision timing have interesting applications in understanding pulsars, and that the understanding of pulsars is helpful in understanding the ‘noise models’ for the GW searches.
I have access to world class datasets including the long term pulsar timing database at Jodrell Bank, which has a unique sample of more than 800 pulsars, typically spanning back to the discovery of the pulsar. I also use the MeerKAT telescope for both high precision timing and the general pulsar population via the Thousand Pulsar Array project.
Application Process
Generally, applications at JBCA are handled centrally, with a panel of academics reviewing the applications. Students seeking a funded studentship should apply early, but be aware that this is highly competitive. Self or externally funded students should make this clear during the application, and also do let me know as well, as it is generally assumed that students are seeking funding, so your application may be rejected if you are not selected during the funding process.
Due to the high number of applicants and the limited number of funded places, I usually do not discuss specific project details until the first selection round for funding decisions. After the initial selection it is much more likely that you would be invited for interview and worthwhile to discuss both the project and the interview process.
I would advise all students to highlight their research experience in their CV or application paperwork, as this is something the panel will look at, especially any publications or experience beyond typical undergraduate project work, in order to more clearly differentiate your application.