Masters by research

We offer one-year Masters courses, in which you will follow part of the taught programme of the PhD programme and perform an intensive research project. The Masters is a degree in its own right, but can also be converted into the start of a PhD. For more information on funding available for postgraduate taught courses visit the University's Fees and Funding page.

PhDs

Our diverse group is at the forefront of data analysis and operations for the CMS, LHCb, LZ and NA62 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 and Linear Colliders, as well as other applications inside and outside particle physics.

PhD students typically join one of these experiments, undertaking some physics analysis as their main activity and will be involved in some aspect of the detector operation. There are also opportunities for interested applicants to focus on the detector upgrade programme, including hardware research and development and software simulation studies.

How to apply

To apply for postgraduate study with the group complete the online application form making sure to select 'Particle Physics' and press 'Submit' at the end of your application. 

Applications for the 2024/25 academic year close on Wednesday, 31 January 2024. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to our Open Day on Wednesday, 14 February 2024.

Applicants should ask two named referees to send us a letter of recommendation directly. These should be from academic referees who know you personally and who can comment on your aptitude for research. The referees will receive automatic invitations to submit their letters after you complete your submission.

Applicants should also include copies of certificates, transcripts and any other supporting documents (including English Language certificates, if applicable) with your application. It can also be helpful to attach a brief CV or résumé that includes a description of your research interests. A detailed plan of your proposed research and personal statement are not needed, but it is useful to know what kind of research you are interested in.

Applications are carefully considered by our team of academics. Suitable applicants are usually invited to visit the School to meet prospective advisers and discuss research opportunities.

Open Day

The group runs its own Postgraduate Open Day which consists of an introduction to the School of Physics and to the Particle Physics research theme followed by lunch and then interviews for shortlisted candidates. Our next Open Day will be held on Wednesday, 14 February 2024. For further information about the Open Day please contact Sudan Paramesvaran.

Funding

• Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) - UK and International students:  STFC-funded scholarships provide a tax-free stipend to both UK and International students, which is currently £18,622 per year for 3.5 years. These scholarships also cover university fees in full for UK students. For international/EU students the scholarship amount is covered up to the current UK student level. In addition, there is support for travel and conference attendance and the opportunity to spend an extended period of time onsite at an experimental laboratory (e.g. CERN), with the option of living abroad for 6-18 months depending on circumstance. For more information on STFC funding eligibility visit the STFC website.

• China Scholarship Council: We offer funding through the China Scholarship Council for PhD studentships, find more information and the application form here.

• Further funding for EU and international students: The International Office has more information on international scholarships and other sources of funding.