Physics and Astronomy PhD

University of Birmingham

Push the boundaries of knowledge at the frontiers of science in one of the largest Physics departments in the country. Combining a high profile for research both in the UK and internationally, by studying a PhD at Birmingham you will work with talented researchers at the very leading-edge of their fields.

The School of Physics and Astronomy has a rich history of distinguished research and has delivered breakthrough discoveries which continue to transform our understanding of the universe, its laws and fundamental characteristics in a number of themes: Astrophysics and Space Research; Condensed Matter Physics; Metamaterials; Molecular Physics; Nanoscale Physics; Nuclear Physics; Particle Physics; Positron Imaging; Solar and Stellar Physics; Theoretical Physics; and Ultra Cold Atoms.

Studying a PhD at the University of Birmingham offers you a wealth of opportunities to expand and transform your thinking through independent inquiry. From working alongside world leaders in physics and astronomy, you’ll have the stimulation, support and challenges you need to succeed. The quality and impact of our research is proven with 90% of the research outputs in the School were rated as world-leading or internationally excellent in the latest Research Exercise Framework (REF).

We have a long tradition of advancing discovery through distinguished research originating from the time of John Henry Poynting, the first Professor of Physics at Birmingham, whose work included the theory of the transfer of electromagnetic energy. Today, however, the School offers research projects across the breadth of the discipline: from nuclear and particle physics experiments at the large hadron collider at the smallest scales, to the role of dark matter at cosmological scales. In between, we cover areas of quantum matter in both experiment and theory which includes ultracold atomic gases, metamaterials, nanoscale physics and condensed matter. Our astronomers are renowned for work in astroseimology, gravitational waves and for extragalactic astronomy.

Our students work in research groups, typically of ten to 40 people with a high level of technical and academic support. Annual research income is over £7 million and 250 research publications are produced each year.

Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology for the purpose of meeting, in part, the academic and experience requirement of membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol).