Physics
The Physics
Research Theme
The University of Exeter EPSRC DTP PhD Studentships
The Physics and Astronomy Department offers a world-class environment for students interested in a diverse array of problems in the physical sciences. Our research seeks both to uncover the fundamental laws that govern natural phenomena on all scales, and to apply these to the understanding of real-world problems. A PhD here could involve an analytical investigation of quantum systems that are at the heart of modern technology, or the fabrication of nano-scale structures that exploit the unique properties of such systems; it could mean using cutting-edge laboratory equipment (bolstered by recent multi-million pound investments into ultra-fast lasers, a multiphoton microscopy and spectroscopy suite, and more), or carrying out simulations on the University’s dedicated supercomputer. In whatever you do, you will be guided by one of our 50-plus permanent academic staff, many of whom have been recognised internationally for their world-leading research, and you will benefit from a lively and supportive community of other students and researchers. We collaborate extensively with researchers in other departments, other universities (both in the UK and abroad), the private sector, and public/governmental organisations, and our students are active, valued participants in these collaborations. We welcome students of all backgrounds, ethnicities, and genders.
The EPSRC DTP-funded PhD projects offered this year revolve around topics in Quantum systems and Nanomaterials, Electromagnetic and Acoustic materials, and Biomedical Physics, with several projects combining elements from multiple different strands. Some projects explore the interaction of electromagnetic and sound waves with matter, and how this can be manipulated using advanced materials; others involve analysing (both analytically and experimentally) the physical properties of systems at the nanoscale, where classical and quantum physics combine to create an exotic world. Others apply insights derived from fundamental biophysics research to major problems in biology and clinical medicine. Frequently these research strands are blended in novel ways: for example, recently researchers here have applied radiative transfer techniques developed here for astrophysics to the study and diagnosis of cancer. Some of the projects seek to explore quantum-scale phenomena in living systems, or to exploit the properties of novel materials for biophysical sensing, with links to multiple research areas here and broad societal implications.
We have a number of Physics research projects open for applications, but also welcome the submission of research proposals which fit one of the themes – Quantum systems and Nanomaterials; Electromagnetic and Acoustic materials; Biomedical Physics.