Triangle

Research overview

Join one of UK's leading physics and astronomy schools. 98% of our research is classed as ‘world-leading’ (4*) or ‘internationally excellent’ (3*) by the the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021.

We conduct internationally leading research in a wide range of experimental and theoretical areas of physics and astronomy. Explore our research groups below to see what opportunities we can offer.

Research groups:

Your PhD will be about conducting original research in an area of your choice under the supervision of academic staff members. You will be encouraged to participate in national and international conferences to present your work, and you will be supported in submitting your results for publication in scientific journals. You will participate in seminars and be part of the vibrant research community of our school.

Course content

Your PhD will be in an area of research you have chosen. Alongside this, you will do research training modules. The school and the Graduate School deliver these.

This formal training element is designed to provide you with transferable skills in writing and oral presentation needed to support your PhD. These modules can be tailored to your needs.

Entry requirements

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2025 entry.

QualificationPhDMRes
Degree

2:1 or a masters in physics, mathematical physics or mathematics

2:2 physics or a masters in physics, mathematical physics or mathematics

Additional information

Most applicants are interviewed. It is preferred they are done in person but if that isn't practical they can be done through a telephone call or video call.

Most applicants are interviewed. It is preferred they are done in person but if that isn't practical they can be done through a telephone call or video call.

Applying

Use our research webpages and staff listings to find a research topic that we work on. In your application, you should tell us which area of physics you want to do a PhD in. You don't need to do a research proposal. 

We accept applications all year round for some groups but you may want to check specific deadlines with your supervisor or prospective funder.

Our step-by-step guide contains everything you need to know about applying for postgraduate research.

How to apply

Fees

QualificationPhD/MRes
Home / UK£5,350
International£30,750

Additional information for international students

If you are a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you may be asked to complete a fee status questionnaire and your answers will be assessed using guidance issued by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA).

These fees are for full-time study. If you are studying part-time, you will be charged a proportion of this fee each year (subject to inflation).

Additional costs

All students will need at least one device to approve security access requests via Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). We also recommend students have a suitable laptop to work both on and off-campus. For more information, please check the equipment advice.

As a student on this course, we do not anticipate any extra significant costs, alongside your tuition fees and living expenses. You should be able to access most of the books and journals you’ll need through our libraries. 

Funding

UK applicants

Each year we offer a number of competitive funded places from a variety of funding sources. Some of these will be advertised on the University's studentships page.  

There are many ways to fund your research degree, from scholarships to government loans.

Check our guide to find out more about funding your postgraduate degree.

Postgraduate funding

Support

You'll be integrated into the school's research community as a member of your research group. You can also take part in research seminars and colloquia given by visiting speakers.

You will have at least 10 meetings per year with your supervisor.

Researcher training and development

The Researcher Academy is the network for researchers, and staff who support them. We work together to promote a healthy research culture, to cultivate researcher excellence, and develop creative partnerships that enable researchers to flourish.

Postgraduate researchers at Nottingham have access to our online Members’ area, which includes a wealth of resources, access to training courses and award-winning postgraduate placements.

Student support

You will have access to a range of support services, including:

  • academic and disability support
  • childcare services
  • counselling service
  • faith support
  • financial support
  • mental health and wellbeing support
  • visa and immigration advice
  • welfare support

Students' Union

Our Students' Union represents all students. You can join the Postgraduate Students’ Network or contact the dedicated Postgraduate Officer.

There are also a range of support networks, including groups for:

  • international students
  • black and minority ethnic students
  • students who identify as women
  • students with disabilities
  • LGBT+ students

SU Advice provides free, independent and confidential advice on issues such as accommodation, financial and academic difficulties.

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Where you will learn

University Park Campus

University Park Campus covers 300 acres, with green spaces, wildlife, period buildings and modern facilities. It is one of the UK's most beautiful and sustainable campuses, winning a national Green Flag award every year since 2003.

Most schools and departments are based here. You will have access to libraries, shops, cafes, the Students’ Union, sports village and a health centre.

You can walk or cycle around campus. Free hopper buses connect you to our other campuses. Nottingham city centre is 15 minutes away by public bus or tram.

Careers

Whether you are considering a career in academia, industry or haven't yet decided, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Expert staff will work with you to explore PhD career options and apply for vacancies, develop your interview skills and meet employers. You can book a one-to-one appointment, take an online course or attend a workshop.

International students who complete an eligible degree programme in the UK on a student visa can apply to stay and work in the UK after their course under the Graduate immigration route. Eligible courses at the University of Nottingham include bachelors, masters and research degrees, and PGCE courses.

Related courses

Research Excellence Framework

The University of Nottingham is ranked 7th in the UK for research power, according to analysis by Times Higher Education. The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is a national assessment of the quality of research in UK higher education institutions.

  • We're ranked joint 3rd of all the physics departments in the UK (overall, institutions ranked by subject)
  • 90%* of our research is classed as 'world-leading' (4*) or 'internationally excellent' (3*)
  • 100%* of our research is recognised internationally
  • 51% of our research is assessed as 'world-leading' (4*) for its impact**

*According to analysis by Times Higher Education ** According to our own analysis.

This content was last updated on 19 September 2024. Every effort has been made to ensure that this information is accurate, but changes are likely to occur between the date of publishing and course start date. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply.