PhD Studentship: Arctic Wintertime Storms in a Changing Climate

Scientific background:

Polar mesoscale cyclones are smaller scale (<1000 km) rapidly developing Arctic storm systems that occur over sub-polar and polar waters. They are challenging to forecast and a significant natural hazard for people living or visiting polar regions. The strongest class, known as polar lows, occur in winter and have gale force windspeeds with high surface heat and moisture fluxes leading to water mass transformation; so are critical in coupling the atmosphere and ocean within the climate system.

Research methodology 

This PhD project will develop a climatology of polar lows for the future using an ensemble of climate projections, investigate the impacts of polar low changes on the climate system, and examine some polar low cases in a coupled forecast model. The student will 

• use cyclone detection and tracking tools to quantify the numbers and distribution of polar lows in future projections from a high-resolution climate model; 
• investigate the impacts of changes in polar low frequencies and distribution on the ocean and on sea ice; 
• examine one or two polar low case studies, making use of our existing aircraft-based observations, or other in situ observations, and new atmosphere–ice–ocean numerical weather prediction simulations using a Met Office model that has the same science configuration as the climate model.  

Training:

You will receive training in the use and analysis of climate model output as well as scientific training in the dynamics and physics of weather systems and the climate system. You will receive guidance in the use of cyclone tracking software and the visualisation of climate diagnostics, as well as how to interpret meteorological observations from various research platforms. You will also have training in using a state-of-the-art numerical weather prediction model – the Met Office Momentum system – and in the use and analyses of its output. There may be the opportunity to take part in field work.  

Person specification:

A degree in a quantitative science. An interest in data analysis of climate model output and numerical modelling of weather systems is essential, while some experience in coding is desirable. 

Funding details 

ARIES studentships are subject to UKRI terms and conditions. Successful candidates who meet UKRI’s eligibility criteria will be awarded a fully-funded studentship, which covers fees, maintenance stipend (£21,805 p.a. for 2026/27) and a research training and support grant (RTSG). A limited number of studentships are available for international applicants, with the difference between 'home' and 'international' fees being waived by the registering university. Please note, however, that ARIES funding does not cover additional costs associated with relocation to, and living in, the UK, such as visa costs or the health surcharge.