The Astronomy & Astrophysics Section at the Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies (DIAS), Dublin, invites applications for a fully funded 4-year PhD position in solar flare physics under the supervision of Dr Laura Hayes, deadline March 16th at 12 noon.

The project will investigate the temporal evolution of solar flares and particle acceleration processes using observations from ESA’s Solar Orbiter mission. The student will analyse coordinated data from STIX (X-ray) and EUI (EUV) to study high-cadence flare variability, time-resolved spectral evolution, energy-dependent timing signatures, and quasi-periodic pulsations (QPPs). The work will combine detailed case studies from Solar Orbiter Major Flare Campaigns with statistical analyses of the expanding flare catalogue, with potential inclusion of complementary radio and multi-mission observations.

The PhD will involve Python-based analysis within the SunPy ecosystem and training in open, reproducible research practices. The student will be based at DIAS Dunsink Observatory, registered at Trinity College Dublin, and embedded in the international Solar Orbiter science community. The position is expected to start in September 2026.

Requirements: Honours degree (BSc/MSc) in Physics, Astrophysics, or related field; strong analytical skills; experience with Python and scientific data analysis. Prior solar/space physics experience is desirable but not essential.

Funding: €25,000 per year tax-free stipend plus tuition fees covered at the EU/UK rate (4 years), with additional support for travel and computing.

Applications must be submitted via the DIAS e-recruitment system by 16 March (12:00 GMT). For informal enquiries: laura.hayes@dias.ie. Full information can be found here: https://www.dias.ie/phd-position-in-solar-flare-physics-using-solar-orbiter/

DIAS is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcomes applications from all backgrounds.