Nuclear Physics PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships for UK Students

PhD students in Nuclear Physics are tasked with conducting research into the properties and behaviour of matter on an atomic and sub-atomic level. You could be researching the properties of particles that make up an atomic nucleus or attempting to understand the fundamental forces that govern our universe.

What's it like to study a PhD in Nuclear Physics?

Working under the guidance of an expert supervisor, you'll work towards completing a thesis that will make an original contribution to the field. Your research will likely involve collaboration with local research centres and you may also have the opportunity to attend conferences and publish your work.

Possible research areas include:

• Nuclear astrophysics
• Nuclear radiation
• Nuclear fuel cycles
• Nuclear waste disposal
• Radiation protection
• Radiation therapeutics

Undergraduate research opportunities are also available in Nuclear Physics, though these are less likely to be advertised with dedicated funding attached.

Most PhD programmes in Nuclear Physics will require you to submit an 80,000-word thesis at the end of your first year, though some programmes will also ask you to complete a 30,000-word research portfolio during your first year. You'll also complete oral defences of your thesis at certain points during your study.

As well as core science classes, you'll also have the opportunity to take language classes to improve your communication skills.

PhD in Nuclear Physics careers

The skills you'll gain during your PhD will equip you for a career in academia, or in areas such as nuclear forensics, nuclear security, or radiation protection. Many graduates also find careers in nuclear policy or nuclear technology.