Condensed Matter Physics DPhil

University of Oxford

Research projects available for the DPhil in Condensed Matter Physics include topics in biological physics, quantum materials and semiconductor materials, devices and nanostructures. Research in the department ranges from fundamental physics questions to interdisciplinary research and technological applications.

The DPhil in Condensed Matter Physics (CMP) is a research-based three- to four-year course. You will be supervised throughout the entire duration of the programme and join the research group of your supervisor. There will usually be opportunity to attend conferences or conduct experiments, both in the extensive research facilities of the Clarendon Laboratory and at other institutions inside or outside the UK. The course is hosted by the Condensed Matter Physics sub-department, one of six sub-departments of the Department of Physics, with most facilities and offices located in the Clarendon laboratory.

You will be assigned to a research group: work on your original research project will start immediately and continue for the duration of your DPhil.

During the first year, you will be required to attend lectures and courses to increase your basic and specialist physics knowledge and in preparation for the research you will carry out. This taught element is tailor-made for the individual student, and will be agreed between you and your supervisor, with the approval of the Director of Graduate Studies.

In the following years, you will concentrate on your research work, though PhD students are strongly encouraged to take part in further courses, including a rich palette of transferable skills courses offered by the University, and attend seminars and colloquia in the Department of Physics and elsewhere. Some research themes organise workshops and away days, specifically designed to give DPhil students the opportunity to present their research to a broader audience. Poster and oral presentations are also part of the ongoing student assessment (see below).

In exceptional cases, applicants may apply for a MSc by Research degree (MSc by Research in Condensed Matter Physics), which requires a shorter registration period. Please contact the department for further information and advice about admission to this course.

Further information about this course can be found on the course page on the department website.

Research and Projects

You will be assigned a specific research project, which can evolve during the course of your DPhil. A list of research projects on offer in the three research themes of the Condensed Matter Physics sub-department (Quantum Materials, Biological Physics and Semiconductor Materials, Nanostructures and Devices) can be found on the course pages on the department website. Please note that not all projects may be available at the time of your application.