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We have 202 Computational Physics PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships
Computational Physics PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships
We have 202 Computational Physics PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships
A PhD in Computational Physics involves the development of mathematical models and computer programmes that can compute the behaviour of physical systems.
What's it like to study a PhD in Computational Physics?
A PhD in Computational Physics requires the development of new mathematical models and computer programmes. This can involve working on problems in areas like:
- quantum many-body theory
- computational fluid dynamics
- biophysical simulation
- neutron transport
- beam simulation
You'll be encouraged to work independently on your research topic, which will usually be part of a larger project being led by a member of staff or a research group.
In a typical Computational Physics PhD, you'll work under the guidance of an expert supervisor to whom you'll submit a thesis at the end of your study. You may also be asked to give occasional presentations about your research at departmental level.
Some Computational Physics PhDs will require laboratory-based research, but many are entirely computational.
Typical entry requirements for a PhD in Computational Physics are a 2:1 in Physics, Mathematics or a related subject, although a Masters may occasionally be required.
PhD in Computational Physics funding options
Most PhDs in Computational Physics are funded by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), meaning that you'll receive a tax-free salary along with training during your PhD.
Some universities may also offer their own funding options. If you are considering a PhD that is fully self-funded, it is advisable to confirm that the programme meets UK academic standards before you apply.
PhD in Computational Physics careers
There is a huge demand for experts in Computational Physics, with careers available in academia, finance and technology. Many Computational Physics PhD graduates also choose to become teachers.
Improved CFD wall-boiling modelling to better account for heat transfer surface characteristics on the critical heat flux in nuclear pressurized water reactors.
Saturn_Nuclear_CDT. The project will advance the accuracy of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) models employed for predicting boiling heat transfer and particularly the Critical Heat Flux (CHF) in nuclear Pressurized Water Reactors (PWR). Read more
Uncertainty quantification for fusion and fission: Exploring novel techniques to quantify and propagate uncertainty in nuclear analysis through the design lifecycle
Saturn_Nuclear_CDT. To support the development of nuclear technology, nuclear analysis is performed to calculate multiple relevant properties including activation of materials, shutdown dose rates, nuclear heating, material damage, tritium breeding, etc. Read more
PhD studentship: Investigating Confined Molecular Transport for Next-Gen Fluidic Innovations (Students World-wide)
Award Summary. 100% fees covered, and a minimum tax-free annual living allowance of £19,237 (2024/25 UKRI rate). Additional project costs will also be provided. Read more
Theory and Simulations of Space Weather in the Earth's Magnetosphere
The environment surrounding a planet dominated by its magnetic field (called the magnetosphere) shields the planet from the solar wind. Read more
Quantum-limited holographic sensing of nanoparticles in plasma CVD of quantum devices
Solid state device fabrication underpinning semiconductor and quantum technology [1] relies heavily on etching and deposition techniques based on plasma chemical vapour deposition (CVD) [2,3]. Read more
PhD Studentship in Integrated Nonlinear Photonics
Advances in fabrication techniques has enabled efficient nonlinear interactions in nanophotonic waveguides at very low pump excitations. Read more
Understanding risk due to Reynolds scaling effects for future aircraft development
This project will investigated Reynolds scaling effects to help support the development of future aircraft. . In the development of future aircraft, Reynolds number scaling effects present a critical challenge, particularly when transitioning from small-scale wind tunnel models to full-scale aircraft. Read more
Vortex flow predictions for stability and control of bluff bodies
This project will develop new methods for vortex flow prediction using advanced computational methods. . Read more
Modelling the dynamics of surfactant-laden droplets for sustainable design of emulsions
Background. Emulsions, which consist of dispersed droplets of one liquid in another immiscible liquid, are critical components in a wide range of applications, from personal care products and pharmaceuticals to food, agrochemicals, and lubricants. Read more
Precision flavour physics observables from Lattice QCD
In this PhD project you will make first principle theory predictions highly relevant for particle physics experiments at supercolliders such as the Large Hadron Collider at CERN. Read more
Large Language Models for Explainable and Scalable Radio Galaxy Classification
Large Language Models for Explainable and Scalable Radio Galaxy Classification. Anticipated start date. September 2025. Note: Subject to funding via The Liverpool Centre for Doctoral Training for Innovation in Data Intensive Science (LIV.INNO). Read more
Improved Contamination Monitoring via Sensor Fusion and Machine Learning for Nuclear Threat Reduction (NTR)
Improved Contamination Monitoring via Sensor Fusion and Machine Learning for Nuclear Threat Reduction (NTR). Supervisors. Dr Charles Kind, Dr Loren Picco. Read more
EPSRC iCASE PhD studentship with SLB - Buoyancy effects in advanced geothermal systems
We invite applications for a fully funded four-year EPSRC iCASE PhD studentship at the University of Sheffield, offered in collaboration with SLB, a global leader in energy technology innovation. Read more
Precise predictions for lepton scattering experiments
Particle physics experiments involving leptons are among the most precise experiments in all of science. They can be used to stress-test the Standard Model of Particle Physics at many different energy scales if the underlying processes are sufficiently well understood. Read more
Innovative Biopolymer Electrolytes with Enhanced Sodium-Ion Conductivity for Sustainable Battery Solutions (ReNU+24/EE/MCE/XING)
The EPSRC Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT) in Renewable Energy Northeast Universities Plus (ReNU+) is a collaborative doctoral training programme run by the Universities of Northumbria, Newcastle and Durham. Read more