Research summary
My research primarily involves the theoretical/numerical modelling of fluid systems in the presence of rotation and magnetic fields.To do this I use various numerical techniques (and computer power) to solve the equations relevant to fluid dynamics and magnetic field generation.
This research is primarily motivated by a desire to better understand the fluid dynamics - including convection processes - and magnetic field generation - the 'dynamo process' - within planets and stars. In particular, numerical simulations are able to provide insight into the dynamics of the chaotic fluid regions (e.g. Earth's liquid iron outer core, the solar convection zone, and planetary atomspheres) where magnetic fields are generated.
Research interests:
Magnetohydrodynamics
Dynamo theory
Convection in astrophysical and geophysical bodies
The geodynamo and other planetary dynamos
The solar dynamo and solar cycle
Potential PhD projects:
- Modelling the force balance in planetary dynamos.
This project would involve working with existing numerical code to perform simulations of the dynamics within Earth's core and planetary atmospheres. The importance of different forces (e.g. Coriolis, Lorentz, viscous forces) determine the dynamics, the dynamo regime, and hence the morphology and strength of the magnetic field that is produced.
- Identifying waves in dynamo models.
This project would involve using existing (and developing new) techniques to isolate and study MHD waves in numerical calculations. Various classes of waves exist and may play a role in the dynamo process and/or help us better understand changes in the magnetic field.
- The effects of magnetic fields on zonal flows in planetary interiors.
This project would involve analytical and numerical solutions of equations governing (magneto)convection in simplified geometries. For example, the Jovian atmosphere can be modelled using plane or annular geometries which simplfy the solutions to the governing equations. It would be good to better understand how magnetic fields of different morphology can affect the zonal flows visible on Jupiter's surface.
- Modelling the solar dynamo and solar cycle.
This project would require working with simulations to look at the roles shear flow and helicity could play in generating magnetic field and producing the 11-year solar cycle.