Lucy Recchia

Why did you choose to undertake a PhD at the University of Leeds? 

Leeds offered the project that I wanted to do and having completed my undergraduate degree here, I was familiar with the campus and city. 

Tell us about your research

I am investigating the processes driving the Indian monsoon, which is one of the most significant meteorological events. The monsoon represents a substantial seasonal change in the global atmospheric circulation, and brings the annual rains which are important to the well-being and livelihoods of millions of people. Despite its importance, the monsoon is still poorly forecast by weather and climate models, largely because we have uncertainties in the physical processes driving the system.

Over the course of my PhD I will develop mathematical models of the dynamics of the Indian monsoon, and evaluate these models against new observations collected in a 2016 field campaign (INCOMPASS project). The results will be used to test dynamical theories and improve weather and climate models for India. My supervisors are Professor D. Parker (School of Earth & Environment) and Dr. S. Griffiths (School of Mathematics).

What is your favourite part of doing your research at Leeds?

The opportunities to meet, talk and collaborate with leading researchers across several disciplines. 

What are your ambitions for the future?

To complete my PhD and publish my research to help improve forecasting of the Indian monsoon. 

What does Leeds as a city have to offer students?

Leeds is a vibrant city with great nightlife, good places to eat and high quality sports facilities. Also, some of the most scenic countryside in the U.K is a short trip away.  

How have you found the support from staff members to be?

Between my supervisors I have a good balance of novel ideas and the practicalities of implementing these, which allows to me progress my research and achieve my objectives. 

What would you say to those considering a PhD at Leeds?

Think carefully about your choice of project and meet your potential supervisors prior to application. 

What experiences at Leeds do you think will help you in your future career?

Interactions with the other researchers, working in a stimulating environment and learning how to apply idealised mathematical models to a complex real-life problem; these experiences I’ve had at Leeds will help me develop my skillset as a successful researcher.