Postgraduate Opportunities

Postgraduate students are crucial to the research conducted within the School of Physics as well as our research themes vibrant culture and environment. Each year we take on new PhD students, as well as MSc by Research (MSc(R)) students who often go on to a full PhD, who undertake a variety of cutting edge projects that underpin much of the School's wider research.

The Particle Physics theme offers a range of postgraduate opportunities from Masters by Research (MSc(R)) to full PhD's and offers an extensive postgraduate training programme, including attendance at two residential schools during the first year.

PhDs 

Our diverse group is at the forefront of data analysis and operations for the CMS, LHCb and LZ experiments. We work on the leading edge of research and development on novel detectors and systems for future experiments, such as the LHC upgrades, DUNE, Mu3e, SHiP, XLZD, Linear Colliders and other related fields of study and research. 

PhD students typically join one of these experiments, undertaking physics analysis as their main activity and getting involved in some aspect of the detector operation. If you are interested, there are also opportunities to focus on detector development and the upgrade programmes, including hardware research and development, and software simulation studies. 

MScR (Master of Science by Research) 

We have an active research Masters programme for self-funded students. Masters students carry out an independent research project with support from a member of academic staff, which is assessed on the basis of the examination of a thesis after one year of research (part time study is also possible). There is also the option to attend relevant advanced lecture courses.

A limited number of University MSc studentships of £5k are available for the MSc programme, but applicants must provide the remaining funding.

How to apply for postgraduate study 

Applications for 2027 are now open will open soon, this page will update with a list of projects and further information when they are available.

--> Complete the online application form (select 'Physics' from the menu)

Before you apply, you will need: 

  • Name and email addresses of two referees  
  • Degree certificate(s) 
  • Transcripts  
  • A personal statement 
  • English Language certificates (if applicable)  
  • CV / résumé 

You do not need to include a research proposal in your application. We would however like to know which area(s) and experiments are of interest to you. 

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to visit the School to meet prospective advisers and discuss research opportunities. This happens at our Postgraduate Open Day.