Overview

When a detector is launched into space it may encounter a very harsh radiation environment. The radiation that hits the detector can cause irreparable damage to the silicon lattice of the detector itself, leading to a degradation of the images returned to earth and having the potential to jeopardise the scientific goals of the mission. Research into the effect of radiation on the detectors is vital to mission success.

About the programme

Through a deeper understanding of the impact of radiation damage we can find ways to operate the detectors to minimise the impact on the science goals of the mission finding ways to correct against this damage through post-processing.

Our Imaging in Space studentships at The Open University UK offer the chance to work alongside experts towards one of several ESA and NASA missions due to be launched over the next decade.

Programme Structure

Current/recent research projects:

Development of an X-ray camera for the OGRE sounding rocket
Development of an imaging camera for UKube-1
Investigation of electron multiplying CCD technology for space astronomy
Radiation damage in scientific sensors for space
Development of CMOS imager for the JANUS camera on JUICE
Euclid: Trap Pumping analysis data products for the Euclid Science Ground Segment
Comet Interceptor: Performance testing and verification of CoCa’s detector

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-10-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-01 00:00:00
Starting 2028-02-01 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-01 00:00:00

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

87

Schedule TOEFL®

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Milton Keynes, United Kingdom

Disciplines

Astronomy & Space Sciences View 38 other PhDs in Astronomy & Space Sciences in United Kingdom

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Academic requirements

GPA

Upper Second Class

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

87

Schedule TOEFL®

Other requirements

General requirements

Entry requirements

Minimum 2:1 undergraduate degree (or equivalent). If you are not a UK citizen, you may need to prove your knowledge of English.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

16420 GBP / year

≈ 16420 GBP / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

5006 GBP / year

≈ 5006 GBP / year

Living costs

Milton Keynes

United Kingdom

848 - 1345 GBP / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

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