Physics PhD

We offer postgraduate research degrees in Physics at the MPhil and PhD level in all of our major research areas such as Emerging Technology and Materials, Applied Mathematics, and Photoelectron Spectroscopy.<br/><br/>Join us for your MPhil or PhD Physics. We supervise MPhil and PhD students whose interests match the expertise we have in our five main research themes.<br/><br/>Condensed matter and nanoscale physics<br/>We research electronic, optical, structural and magnetic properties of novel solid-state materials. In particular, this is in reference to novel semi-conductor structures and nanostructured materials such as nanocrystals and nanowires. Theoretical studies use quantum mechanical approaches and involve massively parallel supercomputing.<br/><br/>Our development of new approaches to quantum modelling is changing the size and complexity of systems that can be modelled. Experimental work takes place at synchrotron facilities in Europe and America. Related work takes place with colleagues in the Emerging Technology and Materials (ETM) Group in the School of Engineering.<br/><br/>Biophysics<br/>Our research in biophysics explores the structure and function of cells with the aim of creating artificial life and building machines based on biological parts. Projects include protocell development and the construction of a cyborg robot. An understanding of biological physics is needed. It uses techniques including single molecule manipulation, atomic force microscopy and scanning tunnelling microscopy.<br/><br/>Astrophysics<br/>We focus on:<br/>galaxies and the interstellar medium<br/>the source of the galactic magnetic field and its influence on the structure of the galaxy<br/>cosmology - particularly the early universe and its origin in the big bang<br/><br/>Ultrafast optics<br/>Our research focuses on coherent optical control of atomic collisions in ultracold gases by femtosecond laser light for studies of problems in fundamental physics. This includes the measurement of time dependence of the fundamental constants of nature. We also research metrological protocols for characterisation of broadband light. This is specifically in relation to foundational aspects of quantum mechanics and its application.<br/><br/>Quantum matter and quantum optics<br/>Our research focusses on the theoretical study and modelling of the quantum properties of matter and light. This includes fundamental aspects including:<br/>the nature of superfluids<br/>the principles of quantum mechanics<br/>state-of-the-art technological applications of quantum transport<br/>quantum sensing<br/><br/>Delivery:<br/>Throughout your studies youll work closely with your supervisor. In the initial stages your research will be guided by the supervisor. As you gain confidence and expertise youll be given increasing responsibility for the day-to-day running of the project.<br/><br/>Youll be trained in all aspects of physics research, including the oral and written presentation of your work.<br/><br/>Facilities:<br/>During your studies, youll have access to high specification laboratories and computing facilities in the Herschel Annex at the heart of the University campus.