colleges that offers phd in physics

Physics, PHD

On this page:, at a glance: program details.

• Location: Tempe campus
• Second Language Requirement: No

Program Description

Degree Awarded: PHD Physics

The PhD program in physics is intended for highly capable students who have the interest and ability to follow a career in independent research.

The recent advent of the graduate faculty initiative at ASU extends the spectrum of potential physics doctoral topics and advisors to include highly transdisciplinary projects that draw upon:

• biochemistry
• electrical engineering
• materials science
• other related fields

Consequently, students and doctoral advisors can craft novel doctoral projects that transcend the classical palette of physics subjects. Transdisciplinary expertise of this nature is increasingly vital to modern science and technology.

Current areas of particular emphasis within the department include:

• biological physics
• electron diffraction and imaging
• nanoscale and materials physics
• particle physics and astrophysics

The department has more than 90 doctoral students and more than 40 faculty members.

Degree Requirements

84 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, an oral comprehensive exam, a prospectus and a dissertation

Required Core (18 credit hours) PHY 500 Research Methods (6) PHY 521 Classical and Continuum Mechanics (3) PHY 531 Electrodynamics (3) PHY 541 Statistical Physics (3) PHY 576 Quantum Theory (3)

Electives or Research (54 credit hours)

Culminating Experience (12 credit hours) PHY 799 Dissertation (12)

Additional Curriculum Information Of particular note within the core courses are the PHY 500 Research Methods rotations, which are specifically designed to engage doctoral students in genuine, faculty-guided research starting in their first semester. Students complete three credit hours of PHY 500 in both their fall and spring semesters of their first year, for a total of six credit hours.

Coursework beyond the core courses is established by the student's doctoral advisor and supervisory committee, working in partnership with the student. The intent is to tailor the doctoral training to the specific research interests and aptitudes of the student while ensuring that each graduating student emerges with the expertise, core knowledge and problem-solving skills that define having a successful doctoral degree in physics.

When approved by the student's supervisory committee and the Graduate College, this program allows 30 credit hours from a previously awarded master's degree to be used for this degree. If students do not have a previously awarded master's degree, the 30 credit hours of coursework are made up of electives to reach the required 84 credit hours.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in physics or a closely related area from a regionally accredited institution. Applicants must have had adequate undergraduate preparation equivalent to an undergraduate major of 30 credit hours in physics and 20 credit hours in mathematics. Courses in analytic mechanics, electromagnetism and modern physics, including quantum mechanics, are particularly important.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.

All applicants must submit:

• graduate admission application and application fee
• official transcripts
• personal statement
• three letters of recommendation
• proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency.

Applicants requesting credit for prior graduate courses, taken either at ASU or elsewhere, must demonstrate mastery of the relevant course material to the graduate-level standards of the Department of Physics.

Next Steps to attend ASU

Learn about our programs, apply to a program, visit our campus, career opportunities.

As professional physicists, graduates can advance the frontiers of physics by generating new knowledge in their subfields while working on the most challenging scientific problems at the forefront of human understanding. Graduates find positions in a variety of settings, such as administration, government labs, industrial labs and management, and as academic faculty.

Physicists are valued for their analytical, technical and mathematical skills and find employment in a vast array of employment sectors, including:

• engineering

Program Contact Information

If you have questions related to admission, please click here to request information and an admission specialist will reach out to you directly. For questions regarding faculty or courses, please use the contact information below.

• [email protected]
• 480/965-3561

Physics Graduate Programs in America

1-25 of 258 results

MIT School of Science

Cambridge, MA •

Massachusetts Institute of Technology •

Graduate School

Massachusetts Institute of Technology ,

Graduate School ,

CAMBRIDGE, MA ,

Stanford University Department of Humanities and Sciences

Stanford, CA •

Stanford University •

Stanford University ,

STANFORD, CA ,

Yale Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

New Haven, CT •

Yale University •

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   2 reviews

Master's Student: The resources at Yale are outstanding. While some of the required courses are slow-moving and less informative, I do have more academic freedom in my second year to the program to take classes that I enjoy across all departments (including data science, statistics, computer science, and law). ... Read 2 reviews

Yale University ,

NEW HAVEN, CT ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The resources at Yale are outstanding. While some of the required courses are slow-moving and less informative, I do have more academic freedom in my second year to the program to take classes that I... .

Read 2 reviews.

Tulane University

Graduate School •

NEW ORLEANS, LA

• • Rating 4.17 out of 5   35

University of North Texas

• • Rating 4.61 out of 5   127

Clarkson University

POTSDAM, NY

• • Rating 3.88 out of 5   41

Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

Harvard University •

• • Rating 4.56 out of 5   9 reviews

Other: I am Harvard Extension School student pursuing a master degree, ALM, in sustainability. I have achieved a 3.89 in this program so far and have qualified, applied, and accepted as a 'Special Student' in the Harvard Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. Through this School, I will be focusing my time at the John A. Paulson school of Engineering & Applied Sciences. Looking forward to wrapping up my final year on campus! ... Read 9 reviews

Harvard University ,

9 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Other says I am Harvard Extension School student pursuing a master degree, ALM, in sustainability. I have achieved a 3.89 in this program so far and have qualified, applied, and accepted as a 'Special Student'... .

Read 9 reviews.

Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences

Princeton university.

Princeton, NJ •

• • Rating 4.33 out of 5   3 reviews

Master's Student: The best part of the Princeton University mechanical engineering graduate degree is the excellent faculty that teach the courses. They are incredibly knowledgeable and also very willing to help students in office hours or in sponsorship of projects. The worst part of the Princeton University mechanical engineering graduate degree is the lack of structure for the graduate research program which can leave you feeling unsure on the direction of your research. ... Read 3 reviews

PRINCETON, NJ ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The best part of the Princeton University mechanical engineering graduate degree is the excellent faculty that teach the courses. They are incredibly knowledgeable and also very willing to help... .

Read 3 reviews.

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Duke University School of Medicine

Durham, NC •

Duke University •

• • Rating 4.76 out of 5   17 reviews

Doctoral Student: Professors are incredible, always willing to go the extra mile to help students succeed. Curriculum is designed to prepare students to be successful therapists. This program is truly incredible. ... Read 17 reviews

Duke University ,

DURHAM, NC ,

17 Niche users give it an average review of 4.8 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says Professors are incredible, always willing to go the extra mile to help students succeed. Curriculum is designed to prepare students to be successful therapists. This program is truly incredible. .

Read 17 reviews.

The Graduate School at Duke

• • Rating 4.8 out of 5   5 reviews

Current Master's student: The program is the best in the nation. It is the origin of the profession and it has helped developed it to what it is today. They seem to ver much involve alumni and are involved in your future. ... Read 5 reviews

5 Niche users give it an average review of 4.8 stars.

Featured Review: Current Master's student says The program is the best in the nation. It is the origin of the profession and it has helped developed it to what it is today. They seem to ver much involve alumni and are involved in your future. .

Read 5 reviews.

Brown University Graduate School

Providence, RI •

Brown University •

Brown University ,

PROVIDENCE, RI ,

School of Arts & Sciences - University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA •

University of Pennsylvania •

University of Pennsylvania ,

PHILADELPHIA, PA ,

Wiess School of Natural Sciences

Houston, TX •

Rice University •

Blue checkmark.

Rice University ,

HOUSTON, TX ,

Weinberg College of Arts and Sciences

Evanston, IL •

Northwestern University •

Northwestern University ,

EVANSTON, IL ,

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College of Arts and Science

Nashville, TN •

Vanderbilt University •

Vanderbilt University ,

NASHVILLE, TN ,

Washington University in St. Louis - Arts & Sciences

St. Louis, MO •

Washington University in St. Louis •

Washington University in St. Louis ,

ST. LOUIS, MO ,

Guarini School of Graduate and Advanced Studies

Hanover, NH •

Dartmouth College •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   1 review

Alum: I had a beautiful life-changing experience at the grand Guarini School of Graduate and Advanced Studies. The Guarini graduate program MALS created so many beautiful opportunities in interdisciplinary learning. Guarini is well integrated within the College, which provides a unique world-class learning experience. Guarini went beyond my expectations and made this experience the best I had and will ever have in my life. The only thing I would like changed is having a GRAD diploma in Latin instead of English to keep up with College tradition. ... Read 1 review

Dartmouth College ,

HANOVER, NH ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says I had a beautiful life-changing experience at the grand Guarini School of Graduate and Advanced Studies. The Guarini graduate program MALS created so many beautiful opportunities in interdisciplinary... .

Read 1 reviews.

Division of Physics, Mathematics and Astronomy - California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA •

California Institute of Technology •

California Institute of Technology ,

PASADENA, CA ,

College of Science - University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN •

University of Notre Dame •

University of Notre Dame ,

NOTRE DAME, IN ,

Physical Sciences Division - University of Chicago

Chicago, IL •

University of Chicago •

Master's Student: The masters in computer science at UChicago has an opportunity for students from nontraditional computer science backgrounds to take “immersion courses” to get up to speed before taking the masters level coursework, which is extremely inclusive programming. The program is also a top competitor and prepares students for professional careers. ... Read 1 review

University of Chicago ,

CHICAGO, IL ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says The masters in computer science at UChicago has an opportunity for students from nontraditional computer science backgrounds to take “immersion courses” to get up to speed before taking the masters... .

Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences

Los Angeles, CA •

University of Southern California •

University of Southern California ,

LOS ANGELES, CA ,

Cornell University College of Arts & Sciences

Ithaca, NY •

Cornell University •

Cornell University ,

ITHACA, NY ,

Rackham School of Graduate Studies

Ann Arbor, MI •

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   3 reviews

Master's Student: I was nervous about attending a prestigious school like The University of Michigan but once classes started I realized that I had made the right decision. Tuition is very expensive but I love my professors and I believe that I am getting the best education in the country! ... Read 3 reviews

University of Michigan - Ann Arbor ,

ANN ARBOR, MI ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I was nervous about attending a prestigious school like The University of Michigan but once classes started I realized that I had made the right decision. Tuition is very expensive but I love my... .

Georgetown University School of Medicine

Nw Washington, DC •

Georgetown University •

• • Rating 4.75 out of 5   4 reviews

Doctoral Student: Compressed pre-clinical work. Administration has been working on finding better and better educators, as well as hiring more learning specialists for the student body. Could have more focus on Step 1 and Step 2 preparation. ... Read 4 reviews

Georgetown University ,

NW WASHINGTON, DC ,

4 Niche users give it an average review of 4.8 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says Compressed pre-clinical work. Administration has been working on finding better and better educators, as well as hiring more learning specialists for the student body. Could have more focus on Step 1... .

Read 4 reviews.

School of Arts and Sciences - Tufts University

Medford, MA •

Tufts University •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   3 reviews

Master's Student: Best: - Incredible colleagues, many of whom are working professionals in the field, all of whom are passionate & come from diverse backgrounds & bring a wide variety of life/ professional experiences that enhance the overall experience -One of the few DEIJ degree programs offered worldwide -flexible options for program completion -many passionate professors & deep learning opportunities -increasing program investment by Tufts, including 2 new FT program-specific professors Most challenging: -program has grown exponentially in the last several years & has experienced commiserate growing pains, including confusion about requirements, need for more faculty, and more opportunities for practice. Tufts is responding but needs to continue its investment. -Since the program is interdisciplinary, students in the DEIJ-L program often need to take classes offered by other dept's/ colleges which may have different requirements & DEIJ-L students may not get preference for registration purposes ... Read 3 reviews

Tufts University ,

MEDFORD, MA ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Best: - Incredible colleagues, many of whom are working professionals in the field, all of whom are passionate & come from diverse backgrounds & bring a wide variety of life/ professional experiences that... -One of the few DEIJ degree programs offered worldwide -flexible options for program completion -many passionate professors & deep learning opportunities -increasing program investment by Tufts, including 2 new FT program-specific professors Most challenging: -program has grown exponentially in the last several years & has experienced commiserate growing pains, including confusion about requirements, need for more faculty, and more opportunities for... -Since the program is interdisciplinary, students in the DEIJ-L program often need to take classes offered by other dept's/ colleges which may have different requirements & DEIJ-L students may not... .

UCLA College of Letters and Science

University of California - Los Angeles •

• • Rating 3 out of 5   1 review

University of California - Los Angeles ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 3 stars.

Krieger School of Arts & Sciences

Baltimore, MD •

Johns Hopkins University •

• • Rating 4.53 out of 5   19 reviews

Master's Student: I have yet to enroll for Fall 2023 after receiving my acceptance letter due to a delay in my need-based financial aid from JHU. However the Homewood Campus in Baltimore is beautiful and my Student Advisor, Alexis has been extremely helpful in initiating my enrollment process and answering all of my questions in a timely matter. My intended Advanced Academic Program is the accelerated (2 semester), dual-modality, 40-credit M.S. in Biotechnology, Biodefense concentration. All of the anticipated course subjects are diverse and there's even a customizable core lab course on campus (at least until Summer 2024). I can't wait and I wish you all the best in your search for academic programs or professional certifications. ... Read 19 reviews

Johns Hopkins University ,

BALTIMORE, MD ,

19 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I have yet to enroll for Fall 2023 after receiving my acceptance letter due to a delay in my need-based financial aid from JHU. However the Homewood Campus in Baltimore is beautiful and my Student... .

Read 19 reviews.

College of Science and Engineering - San Francisco State University

San Francisco State University •

SAN FRANCISCO, CA

San Francisco State University

• • Rating 4.19 out of 5   52

University of Pittsburgh

PITTSBURGH, PA

• • Rating 4.43 out of 5   74

Showing results 1 through 25 of 258

Ph.D. program

The Applied Physics Department offers a Ph.D. degree program; see  Admissions Overview  for how to apply.  

1.  Courses . Current listings of Applied Physics (and Physics) courses are available via  Explore Courses . Courses are available in Physics and Mathematics to overcome deficiencies, if any, in undergraduate preparation. It is expected the specific course requirements are completed by the  end of the 3rd year  at Stanford.

Required Basic Graduate Courses.   30 units (quarter hours) including:

• Basic graduate courses in advanced mechanics, statistical physics, electrodynamics, quantum mechanics, and an advanced laboratory course. In cases where students feel they have already covered the materials in one of the required basic graduate courses, a petition for waiver of the course may be submitted and is subject to approval by a faculty committee.
• 18 units of advanced coursework in science and/or engineering to fit the particular interests of the individual student. Such courses typically are in Applied Physics, Physics, or Electrical Engineering, but courses may also be taken in other departments, e.g., Biology, Materials Science and Engineering, Mathematics, Chemistry. The purpose of this requirement is to provide training in a specialized field of research and to encourage students to cover material beyond their own special research interests.​

​ Required Additional Courses .  Additional courses needed to meet the minimum residency requirement of 135 units of completed course work. Directed study and research units as well as 1-unit seminar courses can be included. Courses are sometimes given on special topics, and there are several seminars that meet weekly to discuss current research activities at Stanford and elsewhere. All graduate students are encouraged to participate in the special topics courses and seminars. A limited number of courses are offered during the Summer Quarter. Most students stay in residence during the summer and engage in independent study or research programs.

The list of the PhD degree core coursework is listed in the bulletin here:  https://bulletin.stanford.edu/programs/APLPH-PHD .

3.  Dissertation Research.   Research is frequently supervised by an Applied Physics faculty member, but an approved program of research may be supervised by a faculty member from another department.

4.  Research Progress Report.   Students give an oral research progress report to their dissertation reading committee during the winter quarter of the 4th year.

5.  Dissertation.

6.  University Oral Examination .  The examination includes a public seminar in defense of the dissertation and questioning by a faculty committee on the research and related fields.

Most students continue their studies and research during the summer quarter, principally in independent study projects or dissertation research. The length of time required for the completion of the dissertation depends upon the student and upon the dissertation advisor. In addition, the University residency requirement of 135 graded units must be met.

Rotation Program

We offer an optional rotation program for 1st-year Ph.D. students where students may spend one quarter (10 weeks) each in up to three research groups in the first year. This helps students gain research experience and exposure to various labs, fields, and/or projects before determining a permanent group to complete their dissertation work. 

Sponsoring faculty members may be in the Applied Physics department, SLAC, or any other science or engineering department, as long as they are members of the Academic Council (including all tenure-line faculty). Rotations are optional and students may join a group without the rotation system by making an arrangement directly with the faculty advisor. 

During the first year, research assistantships (RAs) are fully funded by the department for the fall quarter; in the winter and spring quarters, RAs are funded 50/50 by the department and the research group hosting the student. RAs after the third quarter are, in general, not subsidized by the rotation program or the department and should be arranged directly by the student with their research advisor.

How to arrange a rotation

Rotation positions in faculty members’ groups are secured by the student by directly contacting and coordinating with faculty some time between the student’s acceptance into the Ph.D. program and the start of the rotation quarter. It is recommended that the student’s fall quarter rotation be finalized no later than Orientation Week before the academic year begins. A rotation with a different faculty member can be arranged for the subsequent quarters at any time. Most students join a permanent lab by the spring quarter of their first year after one or two rotations.  When coordinating a rotation, the student and the sponsoring faculty should discuss expectations for the rotation (e.g. project timeline or deliverables) and the availability of continued funding and permanent positions in the group. It is very important that the student and the faculty advisor have a clear understanding about expectations going forward.

What do current students say about rotations?

Advice from current ap students, setting up a rotation:.

• If you have a specific professor or group in mind, you should contact them as early as possible, as they may have a limited number of rotation spots.
• You can prepare a 1-page CV or resume to send to professors to summarize your research experiences and interest.
• Try to tour the lab/working areas, talk to senior graduate students, or attend group meeting to get a feel for how the group operates.
• If you don't receive a response from a professor, you can send a polite reminder, stop by their office, or contact their administrative assistant. If you receive a negative response, you shouldn't take it personally as rotation availability can depend year-to-year on funding and personnel availability.
• Don't feel limited to subfields that you have prior experience in. Rotations are for learning and for discovering what type of work and work environment suit you best, and you will have several years to develop into a fully-formed researcher!

You and your rotation advisor should coordinate early on about things like: 

• What project will you be working on and who will you be working with?
• What resources (e.g. equipment access and training, coursework) will you need to enable this work?
• How closely will you work with other members of the group? 
• How frequently will you and your rotation advisor meet?
• What other obligations (e.g. coursework, TAing) are you balancing alongside research?
• How will your progress be evaluated?
• Is there funding available to support you and this project beyond the rotation quarter?
• Will the rotation advisor take on new students into the group in the quarter following the rotation?

About a month before the end of the quarter, you should have a conversation with your advisor about things like:

• Will you remain in the current group or will you rotate elsewhere?
• If you choose to rotate elsewhere, does the option remain open to return to the present group later?
• If you choose to rotate elsewhere, will another rotation student be taken on for the same project?
• You don't have to rotate just for the sake of rotating! If you've found a group that suits you well in many aspects, it makes sense to continue your research momentum with that group.

Application process

View Admissions Overview View the Required Online Ph.D. Program Application  

Contact the Applied Physics Department Office at  [email protected]  if additional information on any of the above is needed.

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Graduate studies, commencement 2019.

The Harvard Department of Physics offers students innovative educational and research opportunities with renowned faculty in state-of-the-art facilities, exploring fundamental problems involving physics at all scales. Our primary areas of experimental and theoretical research are atomic and molecular physics, astrophysics and cosmology, biophysics, chemical physics, computational physics, condensed-matter physics, materials science, mathematical physics, particle physics, quantum optics, quantum field theory, quantum information, string theory, and relativity.

Our talented and hardworking students participate in exciting discoveries and cutting-edge inventions such as the ATLAS experiment, which discovered the Higgs boson; building the first 51-cubit quantum computer; measuring entanglement entropy; discovering new phases of matter; and peering into the ‘soft hair’ of black holes.

Our students come from all over the world and from varied educational backgrounds. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment and attracting the widest possible range of talents.

We have a flexible and highly responsive advising structure for our PhD students that shepherds them through every stage of their education, providing assistance and counseling along the way, helping resolve problems and academic impasses, and making sure that everyone has the most enriching experience possible.The graduate advising team also sponsors alumni talks, panels, and advice sessions to help students along their academic and career paths in physics and beyond, such as “Getting Started in Research,” “Applying to Fellowships,” “Preparing for Qualifying Exams,” “Securing a Post-Doc Position,” and other career events (both academic and industry-related).

We offer many resources, services, and on-site facilities to the physics community, including our electronic instrument design lab and our fabrication machine shop. Our historic Jefferson Laboratory, the first physics laboratory of its kind in the nation and the heart of the physics department, has been redesigned and renovated to facilitate study and collaboration among our students.

Members of the Harvard Physics community participate in initiatives that bring together scientists from institutions across the world and from different fields of inquiry. For example, the Harvard-MIT Center for Ultracold Atoms unites a community of scientists from both institutions to pursue research in the new fields opened up by the creation of ultracold atoms and quantum gases. The Center for Integrated Quantum Materials , a collaboration between Harvard University, Howard University, MIT, and the Museum of Science, Boston, is dedicated to the study of extraordinary new quantum materials that hold promise for transforming signal processing and computation. The Harvard Materials Science and Engineering Center is home to an interdisciplinary group of physicists, chemists, and researchers from the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences working on fundamental questions in materials science and applications such as soft robotics and 3D printing.  The Black Hole Initiative , the first center worldwide to focus on the study of black holes, is an interdisciplinary collaboration between principal investigators from the fields of astronomy, physics, mathematics, and philosophy. The quantitative biology initiative https://quantbio.harvard.edu/  aims to bring together physicists, biologists, engineers, and applied mathematicians to understand life itself. And, most recently, the new program in  Quantum Science and Engineering (QSE) , which lies at the interface of physics, chemistry, and engineering, will admit its first cohort of PhD students in Fall 2022.

We support and encourage interdisciplinary research and simultaneous applications to two departments is permissible. Prospective students may thus wish to apply to the following departments and programs in addition to Physics:

• Department of Astronomy
• Department of Chemistry
• Department of Mathematics
• John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS)
• Biophysics Program
• Molecules, Cells and Organisms Program (MCO)

If you are a prospective graduate student and have questions for us, or if you’re interested in visiting our department, please contact  [email protected] .

• GRADUATE STUDIES
• Admissions & Financial Aid
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Department of Physics and Astronomy

Ph.D. in Physics Admissions

Our physics Ph.D. program trains students who want to push forward the boundaries of knowledge about the universe to become leaders in discovery. Our students build a strong foundation of technical expertise through coursework, hone their communication skills through professional development opportunities, and strengthen their critical thinking by conducting original research with one of our world-class research teams. These teams specialize in theoretical, computational, and experimental approaches to a wide range of topics: cosmology and general relativity; high-energy particle physics; relativistic heavy ion collisions and high-energy nuclear physics; nuclear structure and dynamics; biological physics; and the physics of materials, optics, and quantum systems. We offer a friendly, welcoming, and inclusive environment where students are treated as colleagues.

The physics Ph.D. program is ideally suited for students who would like to pursue a career in research and development–whether that is in academia, industry, national labs and government agencies, or among the ever-growing opportunities in tech startups. Most alumni first take on a postdoctoral research post after graduation; however, a wide range of career paths is possible, with recent graduates finding positions in investment banking, software engineering, business analytics, and consulting.

We are looking for motivated students who have a passion for original research and want to shape the future of physics. Graduate admissions are highly selective, but we are committed to attracting the widest possible range of talents.

Students receive:

• A five-year package of support with a full tuition waiver
• Health insurance coverage
• Competitive stipends (currently $36,500 per year)
• A paid-for visit to campus before accepting our offer (domestic students only). Vanderbilt is located in the midtown section of Nashville, Tennessee–one of the fastest growing cities in the United States. A visit is certainly the best way to experience Nashville’s vitality, our department’s welcoming spirit, and learn about our faculty’s state-of-the-art research programs

We hope you’ll consider joining us for the next step on your educational journey.

Applying to the Program

Applications for fall 2024 open on August 1, 2024 and must be submitted through the Graduate School Application Portal . The application deadline is January 15.

Strong applications to the physics Ph.D. program include:

• The student’s academic record from prior institutions
• A statement of purpose that details the student’s interests in graduate school and beyond
• Three or more reference letters that provide insight into an applicant’s prior experience, motivation for graduate school, and aptitude for research.

GRE scores are not required. For questions about the Ph.D. program or the application process, please contact our Program Coordinator, Don Pickert .

Application checklist

• Start your admissions application online .
• Compose and submit a statement of purpose (1000-2000 words). We want to know about your motivations and your research interests.
• Request three letters of recommendation. Do this early to give your recommenders plenty of time to send in their letters.
• Order official transcripts of grades from all institutions that you have attended.
• Do not submit GRE scores (General nor Subject). They are not required and will not be considered.
• If you are an international student, submit your TOEFL score (Test of English as a Foreign Language), IELTS or Duolingo score. Note that Vanderbilt requires a minimum TOEFL score of 570 on the paper-based test or 88 on the computer-based test, 6.5 on IELTS or 120 on Duolingo. The TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo requirement may be waived for those international applicants who have a degree from an English-speaking institution. If you’ve received an undergraduate degree from a college or university where English is the primary language of instruction, and if you’ve studied in residence at that institution for at least 3 years, you’re exempt from the English language test requirement and are not required to submit a language test score. You should provide us with a letter from your college or university stating that and add that to your application file.
• If you meet the Graduate School’s eligibility criteria , apply for an application fee waiver*.
• Finalize and submit your entire application by January 15, 2025.

*Note that a small number of additional waivers will be granted at the discretion of the department based on recruitment priorities and extenuating circumstances. You may request an application fee waiver directly from the department only after you have submitted your application and confirmed that a fee is due (i.e., that you are not eligible for a waiver from the Graduate School). To request a fee waiver, please email the Director of Graduate Studies for Physics, Alfredo Gurrola .

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Graduate education in physics offers you exciting opportunities extending over a diverse range of subjects and departments. You will work in state-of-the-art facilities with renowned faculty and accomplished postdoctoral fellows. The interdisciplinary nature of the program provides you with the opportunity to select the path that most interests you. You will be guided by a robust academic advising team to ensure your success.

You will have access to Jefferson Laboratory, the oldest physics laboratory in the country, which today includes a wing designed specifically to facilitate the study and collaboration between you and other physics graduate students.

Students in the program are doing research in many areas, including atomic and molecular physics, quantum optics, condensed-matter physics, computational physics, the physics of solids and fluids, biophysics, astrophysics, statistical mechanics, mathematical physics, high-energy particle physics, quantum field theory, string theory, relativity, and many others.

Graduates of the program have secured academic positions at institutions such as MIT, Stanford University, California Institute of Technology, and Harvard University. Others have gone into private industry at leading organizations such as Google, Facebook, and Apple. 

Additional information on the graduate program is available from the Department of Physics , and requirements for the degree are detailed in Policies . 

Areas of Study

Engineering and Physical Biology | Experimental Astrophysics | Experimental Physics | Theoretical Astrophysics | Theoretical Physics | Unspecified

Admissions Requirements

Please review admissions requirements and other information before applying. You can find degree program-specific admissions requirements below and access additional guidance on applying from the Department of Physics .

Academic Background

Applicants should be well versed in undergraduate-level physics and mathematics. Typically, applicants will have devoted approximately half of their undergraduate work to physics and related subjects such as mathematics and chemistry. It is desirable for every applicant to have completed at least one year of introductory quantum mechanics classes. An applicant who has a marked interest in a particular branch of physics should include this information in the application. If possible, applicants should also indicate whether they are inclined toward experimental or theoretical (mathematical) research. This statement of preference will not be treated as a binding commitment to any course of study and research. In the Advanced Coursework section of the online application, prospective students must indicate the six most advanced courses (four in physics and two in mathematics) they completed or will complete at their undergraduate institution.

Standardized Tests

GRE General: Optional GRE Subject Test: Optional

Theses & Dissertations

Theses & Dissertations for Physics

See list of Physics faculty

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Questions about the program.

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PHD, Physics

We have a small student to faculty ratio (about 2) with a student body size of ~50. We have several worldly renowned research fields ranging from astronomy to nano-science. PhD program takes ~5 years and jobs are found easily upon graduation.

Degree Type: Doctoral

Degree Program Code: PHD_PHYS

Degree Program Summary:

The Department of Physics and Astronomy offers graduate work leading to the MS and PhD degrees in physics. The major research in the department is conducted in the following fields: astrophysics, atomic and molecular physics, nuclear physics, condensed matter physics, statistical mechanics, optics, relativity, high energy physics, and mathematical physics. Experimental research is conducted in on-campus laboratories for atomic and molecular physics, laser spectroscopy of solids, and material synthesis. Research involving the application of computer simulational techniques to astrophysics, condensed matter physics, material science, and high energy physics is conducted at the Center for Simulational Physics. Experimental research in intermediate-energy nuclear physics is performed at off-campus accelerator laboratories in the U.S., France, Canada, and Japan. Astronomical research is conducted with the facilities of the National Radio and Optical Observatories, and those of NASA. Research in the above areas is aided by the campus computing facilities. Prospective students desiring financial aid should submit all application material by February 15. No foreign language is required for the master’s or doctoral degrees.

The University of Georgia Department of Physics and Astronomy offers comprehensive graduate degrees at both the masters and doctorate levels. Both degree programs have two main goals: achieving a broad background in physics or physics and astronomy through coursework and seminars, and developing independent research skills through the completion of an original thesis project.

Graduate students in this department are actively engaged in frontier research with their faculty mentors, publishing articles in the top physics and astronomy journals and presenting their work at national and international conferences. At present, the department has active experimental, theoretical, and computational research programs in a wide range of areas, including astronomy and astrophysics; atomic, molecular, and chemical physics; computational physics; condensed matter and statistical physics; and nuclear and elementary particle physics; nanotechnology; and biophysics. The department has numerous state-of-the-art computational and experimental research facilities. In addition, the department is home to the Center for Simulational Physics. Several faculty members work in nanoscale technology, collaborating with faculty from other disciplines at the UGA NanoSEC. Several other interdisciplinary research efforts in the department involve ongoing collaborations with researchers in other UGA departments, including Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Genetics, Geology, Instructional Technology, Physiology, and Statistics.

All graduate students must fulfill specific degree requirements. At the master’s level, students must maintain a 3.0 grade-point average and take eight graduate-level courses, including at least three of the following four courses: Methods of Mathematical Physics I, Classical Mechanics I, Quantum Mechanics I, and Advanced Electromagnetic Theory I. To complete their degree, masters students must successfully defend a written thesis based on original research.

At the doctoral level, students must maintain a 3.0 grade-point average and take 6 courses Methods of Mathematical Physics, Classical Mechanics, Quantum Mechanics I & II, Electromagnetic Theory, and Statistical Mechanics. Students are also required to earn 6 credits of PHYS 8990 (Introduction to Research) and 2 credits of PHYS 6000 (Colloquium), the details of which are given in the Graduate Student Handbook. In addition, all doctoral students must satisfactorily complete both a written and an oral comprehensive exam. The written exam covers material considered part of the typical undergraduate physics curriculum, whereas the oral exam has a somewhat tighter focus, centering on a timely topic selected by the student’s advisory committee. To complete their degree, doctoral students must successfully defend a written thesis based on original research.

In the Department of Physics and Astronomy, we pride ourselves on the nurturing environment we provide for our graduate students through close interactions between students and faculty. We achieve this goal by maintaining a student-to-faculty ratio between one and two. As a result, we are able to address the needs of each student on an individual basis. Upon earning their degree, our students are well trained for careers in diverse areas, including basic and applied research, teaching, high-tech industry, and business. To illustrate this point, visit our Alumni page and see what our former students are doing now.

Locations Offered:

Athens (Main Campus)

College / School:

Franklin College of Arts & Sciences

346 Brooks Hall Athens, GA 30602

706-542-8776

Department:

Physics and Astronomy

Graduate Coordinator(s):

Steven Lewis

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PhD program

The PhD program is designed to provide students with a broad experimental, observational, and/or theoretical foundation for successful careers as scientists. They become prepared for careers in teaching, research, and work in industry. Study includes formal course work, participation in teaching, and attending colloquia and seminars. The PhD degree requires the design and completion of an original research project. The results of the research must be presented in a written dissertation and defended in an oral examination. PhD students in good academic standing receive full financial support (stipend+benefits+tuition) for at least five consecutive years of graduate study.

The  rate of progress of individual students depends on many factors, including previous preparation, how well the subject matter is mastered, the field of specialization, the type of financial support, and the rate at which a research project progresses. The MS degree typically is completed in slightly more than one calendar year. Although some students have completed the PhD in just four years, most students require more than four years. The average time to receive a degree, based on recent PhD graduates in the department over the past five years, was 6.1 years.

View departmental policies on expected progress towards degree .

Requirements

Find an overview of the requirements and regulations for the PhD in Physics degree, as well as a detailed description in the Graduate Student Handbook .

Normal Progression Beyond the Comprehensive Examination

The majority of the students admitted to our PhD program now satisfy all of the requirements for passing the Comprehensive Examination by the end of their first year.  All of them must do so by the end of their second year.  The  Appendix describes in detail the benchmarks that our PhD students must achieve after passing the Comprehensive Examination, and the time scale they are expected to adhere to in order to make satisfactory progress towards the completion of their degree objective.

Individual Development Plan

The Individual Development Plan (IDP) helps students be intentional about setting goals and planning for a career while in graduate school. It also supports students in assessing individual skill sets relative to career goals and documenting progress in acquiring both the depth of research and breadth of other skills sought by employers.

Physics, PhD

Zanvyl krieger school of arts and sciences, admission requirements.

To obtain admission, a student is expected to submit evidence that they have a good chance to succeed. 

A complete application will include:

• Statement of purpose. We look for a thoughtful, well-written statement that shows the ability to overcome challenges, dedication to attain chosen goals, a capacity for creativity, an understanding of physics and/or astronomy, and any other indication of potential for research.
• Three letters of recommendation. Recommendation letters should help us evaluate your capacity for research, the most important criterion for admission.
• Transcripts of all previous work. Transcripts submitted with the application may be unofficial transcripts. Successful applicants who accept the offer of admission must supply an official transcript before they can begin the PhD program at JHU. In the case of students in the final year of their bachelors program, the official transcript must show completion of all coursework required for the degree.
• TOEFL or IELTS for international students. A reproduction is acceptable. Johns Hopkins prefers a minimum score of 600 (paper-based) or 250 (computer-based) or 100 (Internet-based) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).
• $75 non-refundable application fee. The application fee may be waived .

Note: submission of General GRE and Physics GRE scores is optional.

Successful applicants applying in the last year of their Bachelor’s program will need to demonstrate the completion of their Bachelor’s degree program before they can begin the Ph.D. program at JHU.

Program Requirements

The Ph.D. program has strong emphasis on early and active involvement in graduate research. Thus, students are required to have a research advisor and file a research summary every semester they are enrolled in the program, starting with the first one. Furthermore, students must complete the required courses with a grade of B- or better; the coursework is typically done over the first two years. In the beginning of the second year, students complete the research examination, and in the beginning of the third year – the University’s Graduate Board Oral examination, both of which are based on completed or proposed research. During the first two years, students are typically involved in introductory research projects, which may or may not be related to their thesis work, and sometimes work with several different advisors, but they must identify (and have an agreement with) a thesis advisor no later than the beginning of their third year in the program, after which point students focus on their thesis research. The thesis is to be completed by no later than the end of the 6th year, ending with an oral presentation of the thesis to a faculty committee.

Course Requirements

Ph.d. in physics.

Students must complete the following courses:

Ph.D. in Astronomy and Astrophysics

Students in both programs must receive at least a B- in each required course, or they will be required to retake the specific course once more and pass it.

The department offers a wide range of graduate physics, astrophysics, mathematical methods and statistics classes, and while only five are required, the students are encouraged to use the flexibility of the graduate program and the available classes to design programs of study that best prepare them for their chosen area of research. In addition to the required courses listed above, below is the list of the graduate courses that have been taught in recent years:

Research and Advising

The principal goal of graduate study is to train the student to conduct original research. Therefore, physics and astronomy graduate students at Johns Hopkins are involved in research starting in their first semester in the program.

First and Second-Year Research Requirement

By the end of September, the student chooses their first research advisor among the professorial faculty and starts working on the first-semester research project. If the proposed research advisor does not hold a primary appointment as a tenure-track or research faculty member in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, the form must be co-signed by a PHA faculty member, who will provide mentorship  (relevant department faculty members list) . This requirement holds for all semesters of research. The first-semester project continues through intersession in January. The spring-semester research project continues until the end of the spring semester. The summer semester lasts from June through August. Students may continue with one advisor through the entire first year, or they may choose to cycle through several different research advisers from one semester to the next.

This system of semester projects continues during the first two years of the program, when students also complete required coursework. The nature of these first- and second-year research projects varies from student to student, from advisor to advisor and from one sub-field of physics to another. Some may be self-contained research projects that lead to published scientific papers and may or may not be related to the thesis research in later years.  Listing of recent publications by our graduate students . Others may comprise reading or independent-study projects to develop background for subsequent research. In other cases, they may be first steps in a longer-term research project.

This system accommodates both the students who have chosen the direction of their thesis work before graduate school and those who would like to try a few different things before committing to a long-term project. As students get more familiar with the department and the research opportunities, they zero in on their thesis topic and find a thesis advisor. This may happen any time during the first two years, and students are required to find a thesis advisor by the beginning of the third year.

Thesis Research and Defense

Securing a mutual agreement with a thesis advisor is one of the most important milestones of our graduate program. Students must find a thesis advisor and submit the thesis advisor form before the first day of their 3rd year. The form represents a long-term commitment and serious efforts in planning and communication between the student and the advisor. If the proposed thesis advisor does not hold a primary appointment as a tenure-track or research faculty member in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, the form must be co-signed by a PHA faculty member, who will serve as the departmental advisor of record (relevant department faculty members list) . 

After the student chooses a thesis advisor, the student forms their Thesis Committee consisting of three faculty members in the Dept. of Physics and Astronomy (PHA). At least two should be tenure track faculty with primary appointments in PHA. An external advisor may be added as the fourth member of the committee. These committees function as extended advisory bodies; students have the opportunity to discuss their progress and problems with several faculty. They also conduct one formal annual review of each student’s progress.

Research leading to the dissertation can be carried out not only within the Department of Physics and Astronomy, but with appropriate arrangements, either partly or entirely at other locations if necessitated by the project goals. At the conclusion of thesis research, the student presents the written dissertation to the faculty committee and defends the thesis in an oral examination.

Requirements for the M.A. Degree

Although the department does not admit students who intend to pursue the master’s degree exclusively, students in the department’s Ph.D. program and students in other Ph.D. programs at Johns Hopkins may apply to fulfill the requirements for the M.A. degree in the Department of Physics and Astronomy. Students from other JHU departments must seek approval from their home department and from the Department of Physics and Astronomy.

Before beginning their M.A. studies, students must have mastered the undergraduate physics material covered by the following courses:

Courses taken elsewhere may qualify at the discretion of the Graduate Program Committee (normally this requirement is satisfied by the Ph.D.-track students before they arrive at JHU as they have completed a B.A. or B.Sci. in Physics at another institution).

To qualify for the M.A. degree in Physics, students must complete eight one-semester 3-credit graduate-level courses in the Department of Physics and Astronomy and pass the departmental research exam. For the M.A. degree in Astronomy, students must complete eight one-semester 3-credit graduate-level courses in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, plus the seminar “Language of Astrophysics” and pass the departmental research exam. The student must receive a grade of B- or above in each of the courses; graduate courses can be retaken once in case of failure.

Of the eight one-semester courses, four must be the core courses listed above in the Ph.D. requirements and two must be Independent Graduate Research courses. The remaining two course requirements for the M.A. degree may be fulfilled either by 3-credit graduate electives or by additional Independent Graduate Research. The research courses must include an essay or a research report supervised and approved by a faculty member of the Department of Physics and Astronomy.

Under most circumstances students pursuing their Ph.D. qualify for the M.A. degree by the end of their second year if they have taken all four core courses in their discipline at JHU, the “Language of Astrophysics” seminar (for M.A. in Astronomy), four semesters of Independent Graduate Research, and passed the research exam. Graduate courses taken at another institution or in another department at JHU in most cases do not count toward the M.A. requirements (therefore, students who are interested in the M.A. degree, but are planning to waive any graduate courses because they have passed a comparable graduate course at another institution, should discuss their eligibility for the M.A. degree with the Academic Program Administrator as soon as they arrive at JHU). Students should expect that no M.A. requirements can be waived; that the minimal research requirement is two semesters; and that at most one of the core courses can be substituted by another (non-research) graduate course in exceptional circumstances. Any requests for M.A. course substitutions must be made to the Graduate Program Committee at least a year before the expected M.A. degree so that the committee can recommend an appropriate substitution.

Graduate Programs

The graduate program provides students the opportunity to perform research in cutting-edge areas of contemporary physics. The Department of Physics offers graduate student research opportunities in theoretical and experimental physics in condensed matter, high energy and particles, cosmology, astrophysics and biophysics.

Opportunity and Community

The graduate program comprises more than 100 graduate students from many different countries and backgrounds. We offer responsive advising throughout the duration of the program, from academic advising in the early stages to career counseling and post-graduation opportunities. In addition, the Graduate Program is enriched with multiple seminars, colloquia, workshops, and conferences that provide an opportunity for students to engage with visiting scholars.

Our graduate students train with 30 physics professors and 12 joint and affiliated faculty, primarily in engineering, applied mathematics, biology and chemistry . Multidisciplinary inquiry is encouraged. The academic program is rigorous yet flexible, combining strong core training with multiple options for more specialized studies. We foster a strong sense of community not always found in larger departments. Brown’s affiliations provide national and international research opportunities . Easy access to seminars and courses of the greater Boston area universities enriches our intellectual life.

The department is the host of the  Center for the Fundamental Physics of the Universe  and the  Brown Theoretical Physics Center . Several department members participate in large national and international collaborations, such as the Large Hadron Collider. 

Program Leaders

Director of graduate studies (dgs).

James Valles, Jr.

Professor Valles handles all Ph.D. program and student issues, including degree requirements and milestone completion, transfer credit, etc.

Professor Valles is an experimental condensed matter physicist. He studies superconductivity and electron correlation effects in disordered metals and nanostructures. He also investigates effects of strong magnetic fields in cell biology and bio-polymerization.

Director of the Master's Program (DMP)

Professor Tang handles all Sc.M. program and student issues, including admission, advising, degree requirements, etc.

Professor Tang is an experimental biological physicist. His research focuses on cell mechanics and mobility and addressing outstanding questions on morphology, pattern formation, force generation and mobility of bacteria and other cells.

Graduate Students of Color in STEM at Brown University

GSOCnSTEM is a student-driven graduate organization that hosts social events, seminar series and outreach activities focusing on the advancement of graduate students of color in STEM at Brown University.

Ph.D. in Physics

General info.

• Faculty working with students: 45
• Students: 90
• Students receiving Financial Aid: 100%
• Part time study available: No
• Application terms: Fall
• Application deadline: December 13

Mark Kruse Director of Graduate Studies Department of Physics Duke University Box 90305 Durham, NC 27708-0305 Phone: (919) 660-2502

Email: [email protected]

Website:  https://physics.duke.edu/graduate

Program Description

The Department of Physics supports a variety of programs that are at the  frontier of basic research. Areas of specialization include nonlinear  dynamics and complex systems, quantum nanoscience, quantum optics/ultra-cold  atoms, free electron lasers, biological physics, experimental high energy  physics, experimental nuclear physics, nuclear and particle theory,  condensed matter theory, string theory, and gravitation. The research groups  are not large but are all very active and enjoy a high reputation; this  provides the opportunity for students to participate in frontier research,  while fostering a strong interaction between students and faculty. The  department is the site of the Triangle Universities Nuclear Laboratory and  the Duke Free Electron Laser Laboratory. The high energy physics group  conducts research at major international laboratories (e.g., Fermilab, CERN  and Super-Kamiokande). The Center for Nonlinear Studies is a cooperative  program involving faculty members of the departments of Physics,  Mathematics, Computer Science, Chemistry, and the Pratt School of  Engineering. The Center for Theoretical and Mathematical Sciences fosters  trans-disciplinary research employing mathematical techniques. The Center  for Geometry and Theoretical Physics involves both Physics and Mathematics departments.

• Physics: PhD Admissions and Enrollment Statistics
• Physics: PhD Completion Rate Statistics
• Physics: PhD Time to Degree Statistics
• Physics: PhD Career Outcomes Statistics

Application Information

Application Terms Available:  Fall

Application Deadline:  December 13 Applications submitted by December 13 are guaranteed review. Applications submitted after December 13 but before the closing date of January 3 will be reviewed based upon availability of space and funding.

Graduate School Application Requirements See the Application Instructions page for important details about each Graduate School requirement.

• Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts required with application submission; official transcripts required upon admission
• Letters of Recommendation: 3 Required
• Statement of Purpose: Required (see departmental guidance below)
• Résumé: Required
• GRE General: Optional
• GRE Subject - Physics: Optional
• English Language Exam: TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test required* for applicants whose first language is not English *test waiver may apply for some applicants
• GPA: Undergraduate GPA calculated on 4.0 scale required

Writing Sample : None required

We strongly encourage you to review additional department-specific application guidance from the program to which you are applying: Departmental Application Guidance

List of Graduate School Programs and Degrees

• College of Science
• Physics Department
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The Department of Physics offers Doctor in Philosophy in Physics degree. The program includes the essential components of a Physics Ph.D. education and includes expertise that can only be found at The University of Texas at El Paso, with a strong focus on quantum science. The program includes the primary core courses, generally necessary for launching STEM careers for physics Ph.Ds., but also includes courses based on our internationally competitive leadership capabilities at the nexus of density-functional-theory based design of quantum systems, quantum-computing, quantum magnetism, and quantum sensing.  The main goal of the proposed Ph.D. program is to provide our students with a unique broad-based, integrative education that includes acquiring fundamental knowledge, using fundamental knowledge to provide new outside-the-box solutions to societal needs including climate change, and to develop problem-solving skills that are important for potential employers.

Admission requirements:

 Admission to the Physics PhD program will require:

• Official transcripts  and proof of degree (diplomas): bachelor’s or master’s degree in physics, applied mathematics, or engineering from an accredited institution in the United States, or proof of equivalent education in a foreign institution, will be considered. Documents are in a language other than English must be accompanied by a certified English translation. The entering students should have a minimum 3.3 grade point average in their bachelor’s and/or master’s degree.
• Statement of purpose (SOP) : An essay written by the applicant on career goals, academic and research interests is required. The SOP should clearly state the research groups the applicant is interested in joining.
• Three letters of recommendation  from people knowledgeable in the field.
• English language proficiency test scores that are valid for 2 years  for some international applicants: A minimum internet-based iBT of 79 (same as 550 for previous paper-based or 217 computer-based test scores) or 6.5 for IELTS or 110 for Duolingo is required for international applicants whose first language is not English and who have not completed a degree at a university in the U.S. or another English-speaking country. Click for a  list of English language proficiency exempt countries .

Application deadlines :

• Fall:  February 15 (March 15 for Fall 2024)
• Spring:  September 15
• Apply online through UTEP Graduate School :  https://www.utep.edu/graduate/apply-now/apply-now.html

International applicants : Please visit the  webpage for international applicants  for more information and requirements.

Degree Requirements:

• A total of 72 credit hours beyond a Bachelor’s degree or 54 credit hours beyond a physics Master’s degree.
• Pass the qualifying exams by the end of the fourth (4th) semester.
• Successfully present and defend a proposal for dissertation.
• Successfully present and defend a dissertation.

Students entering with a B.S. in physics:

All students who follow a standard track must take 72 graduate credit hours which includes 51 CR from required courses, 3 CR from prescribed electives, 18 CR from free electives.

The required courses are:

Prescribed electives: (3 Cr)

Free electives: (18 Cr)

Students entering with an M.S. in physics:

Students entering the program with a M.S. degree from an accredited higher education institution are required to complete at least 54 Cr. The students entering with a M.S. degree may be allowed to transfer up to 18 credits. In such cases the students may have to take at least 9 CR of required courses, 12 CR of prescribed, and 3 CR of free elective courses.

Candidacy exams:

The candidacy exam encompasses the qualifier exam and the Ph.D. proposal defense. All full-time students are required to take the qualifying exams after their fourth semester of coursework. The students will be required to choose a research advisor and committee by the end of the fourth semester at the latest. After passing the qualifying exam, when the students successfully defend a PhD proposal based on their initial research, they will become Ph.D. candidates. All students admitted to the program will be admitted with the expectation that they will complete an internationally competitive Ph.D. dissertation within five years of enrollment. 

Dissertation:

A dissertation is an absolute requirement for completing the Ph.D. degree. As is always the case, students will also have to complete their Ph.D. defense prior to receiving their degree. All Ph.D. defenses will be open to the public.

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The University of Texas at El Paso College of Science Department of Physics 500 W University El Paso, Texas 79968

E: [email protected] P: (915) 747-5715

Boston University Academics

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• PhD in Physics

The Physics PhD program educates students to become scholars and researchers in physics. Our graduates are trained to teach and to carry out original research that is theoretical, experimental, computational, or a blend of these approaches. Research specialties include:

• Biological physics
• Computational physics
• Experimental condensed matter physics
• Theoretical condensed matter physics
• Particle astrophysics and cosmology
• Experimental particle physics
• Theoretical particle physics
• Statistical physics

Our program prepares professional scientists for careers in academic, industrial, and government settings. To be admitted to the program, a student needs at least a bachelor’s degree in physics or a closely related discipline.

Our program offers numerous interdisciplinary opportunities, particularly with the Chemistry, Computer Science, and Mathematics Departments in the College of Arts & Sciences, the College of Engineering, and the Materials Science & Engineering Division. Major resources include the Scientific Instrument Facility, Electronics Design Facility, Hariri Institute for Computing and Computational Science & Engineering, and Photonics Center.

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate a thorough and advanced understanding of the core areas of physics, including mechanics, electricity and magnetism, thermal and statistical physics, and quantum mechanics, along with the mathematics necessary for quantitative and qualitative analyses in these areas.
• Demonstrate the ability to acquire, analyze, and interpret quantitative data in the core areas of physics.
• Demonstrate the ability to conduct theoretical, experimental, or computational research that makes original contributions to our understanding of the physical world.
• Demonstrate the ability to effectively communicate the results of research in both written and oral presentations.
• Demonstrate the ability to use advanced computational methodologies in research and teaching.
• Demonstrate the ability to conduct scholarly activities in a professional and ethical manner.

Course Requirements

A total of sixteen 4-credit courses (64 credits) are required to fulfill the PhD requirements (with grades of B– or higher) and with an overall average of B or greater. Course requirements are as follows:

• CAS PY 501 Mathematical Physics
• CAS PY 511 Quantum Mechanics I
• CAS PY 512 Quantum Mechanics II
• CAS PY 521 Electromagnetic Theory I
• CAS PY 541 Statistical Mechanics I
• CAS PY 581 Advanced Laboratory (may be waived if a student submits evidence of having taken an equivalent course at their undergraduate institution. If PY 581 is waived, it must be replaced with another 4-credit lecture course.)
• GRS PY 961 Scholarly Methods in Physics I (must be taken in first year)

The remaining courses must be chosen from an approved list of lecture courses found on the department website, including at least one distribution course from outside the student’s research specialty (see PhD degree requirements on the department website for more details).

Up to eight non-lecture courses (numbered above 899) may be counted toward requirements, but no more than two directed study courses and two seminar courses may be counted.

Students are encouraged to audit courses after the completion of formal course requirements or en route to the PhD. Audit course requests must be approved by the student’s advisor and the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS).

Language Requirement

There is no foreign language requirement for this degree.

Demonstration of Proficiency in Physics

Each student is required to demonstrate proficiency through coursework by maintaining an average grade of at least B in the five core Physics courses, with no grade lower than B–.

Students who fail to achieve the qualification standards will be asked to either:

• Retake one or more the core courses (credit will not be given for a course taken more than once).
• Audit or self-study the material in one or more of the core courses and retake the final exam of the appropriate course(s); the result(s) will be used to evaluate if the student meets the qualification standards in that area.

Students who have already taken the equivalent of one or more of the core physics courses may petition to alternatively demonstrate proficiency by one of three options: (i) retake one or more core courses at Boston University; (ii) present evidence of satisfactory performance in the equivalent core courses at another university, corresponding to a minimum grade of B– and at least an average grade of B in the equivalent core courses; or (iii) opt for an oral examination. The petition should be filed immediately upon entering the graduate program. Under exceptional circumstances, the DGS may decide to accept a late filing of the petition. Determination of satisfactory performance is made by a faculty committee appointed by the DGS. If the committee judges that either options (ii) or (iii) are not satisfied for one or more courses, the student will be required to enroll in the appropriate course.

A student who has failed to achieve the qualification standard may file a petition to demonstrate proficiency by an oral exam in the subject(s) in question.

Qualifying Examination

The PhD qualifying examination, known formally as the ACE (Advancement to Candidacy Examination), is an oral examination, which is required for PhD candidacy. Students prepare an oral presentation of approximately 20 minutes in duration on a research paper chosen by the student in consultation with their research advisor, which is subject to approval by the DGS. If the student does not have an advisor at the time of ACE preparation, a student can choose a paper in their field of interest, again subject to approval by the DGS. The committee will ask questions about the content of the research paper following the presentation. Some questions will encourage the student to place the discussed paper within a broader physics context. The entire examination should last about 60 minutes in total. The examination committee is formed by four faculty members—the DGS plus three additional faculty members from the Department of Physics or faculty members from related departments who are approved by the DGS.

Dissertation and Final Oral Examination

Candidates shall demonstrate their ability for independent study in a dissertation representing original research or creative scholarship. A prospectus for the dissertation must be completed and approved by the readers, the DGS, and the Department Chair/Program Director approximately seven months before the final oral exam, and no later than the fall semester of the student’s seventh year. Candidates must undergo a final oral examination in which they defend their dissertation as a valuable contribution to knowledge in their field and demonstrate a mastery of their field of specialization in relation to their dissertation. All portions of the dissertation and final oral examination must be completed as outlined in the GRS General Requirements for the Doctor of Philosophy Degree .

Interim Progress Report

The student must submit an Interim Progress Report to the DGS by the end of the fourth year. This report is a 3-to-5-page (single-spaced, 12-point font) description of the student’s PhD research activities. It should include the anticipated research scope, research accomplishments, and time scale for completion of the PhD. The report should be prepared in consultation with, and the approval of, all members of the PhD Committee.

Departmental Seminar

The student is required to give a generally accessible seminar related to their dissertation project as part of a Graduate Seminar Series. All five members of the PhD Committee must attend the seminar; other faculty and students are encouraged to attend. The seminar should be presented shortly after the dissertation prospectus is prepared and no later than six months before the final oral exam.

Immediately after the seminar, the PhD Committee meets privately with the student to discuss the details of research required for the completion of a satisfactory PhD dissertation.

Any PhD student who has fulfilled the requirements of the master’s degree program, as stated here , can be awarded a master’s degree.

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Physics Ph.D.

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We're so glad you're interested in UNT! Let us know if you'd like more information and we'll get you everything you need.

Why Earn a Physics Ph.D.?

UNT's Ph.D. in Physics offers graduate students the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art equipment in modern research laboratories, such as:

• Ion Beam Modification and Analysis Laboratory , containing four electrostatic accelerators and ancillary equipment to support studies of materials modification and analysis by ion beams
• Optical Micro/Nanofabrication Laboratory , with instrumentation for development and fabrication of photonic and plasmonic devices and other nanophotonic structures
• Precision Atomic Physics and Laser Laboratory , equipped for the development of precision laser light sources and their application to fundamental tests of quantum electrodynamics
• Solid State Physics Laboratory , which is equipped for nanostructure synthesis and characterization and the development and study of nanoscale device applications
• Ultrafast Spectroscopy and Photonics Laboratory , a laser-based laboratory where femtosecond pulsed lasers and continuous wave lasers are used to study materials properties
• Computational Laboratory , a computer-based laboratory for the design, simulation, and calculation of materials structure and property.
• Astrophysics Laboratory , which studies the physics in the space such as galaxies and universe evolution.
• Student Research Laboratory , dedicated student labs equipped with a variety of instruments for materials characterization and simulations.

In addition, students have access to campus research facilities such as:

• Materials Research Facility (MRF) , equipped with an extensive suite of instruments for micro and nano characterization of materials and a Nanofabrication Analysis and Research Facility with a clean room for synthesis, processing and testing of materials and devices.
• TALON , a high-performance cluster computing facility configured with 224 nodes and operating at speeds up to 20 teraflops
• Manage complex research projects
• Advanced research methodologies
• Creative problem-solving
• Perform effectively with minimal oversight

Physics Ph.D. Highlights

Career outlook.

Students with a Ph.D. in physics may choose to work as faculty or research scientist in research and development divisions in industries, government research labs, and educational institutions.

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PhD in Physics

Drive Innovation That Matters

A PhD in Physics from Clarkson University gives you the training and resources to become an independent scholar in a specialized subfield. Through the program, you will apply advanced knowledge in core areas of classical mechanics, electromagnetism and quantum mechanics to uncover out-of-the-box solutions. You will gain the theoretical foundations to conduct experimental investigations with a high degree of expertise. By the time you graduate, you will be ready to lead research teams in academia or industry. 

Why Earn a PhD in Physics From Clarkson University?

The PhD in Physics offers rigorous research training and complex coursework meant to challenge your understanding of the field. You will be able to choose from different specialization areas to deepen your expertise and tackle a wider set of issues through interdisciplinary work with faculty and peers across campus.

One of the hallmarks of our department is the personalized attention we offer students. We keep our class sizes small, encouraging collaboration and solutions that require teamwork. Your research advisor will provide comprehensive guidance, and you will further benefit from a friendly and open relationship with other faculty members. We value your input and ideas and treat you as a fellow scholar.

Despite our size, we offer the resources of a much larger university. You will have access to state-of-the-art research centers and the opportunity to participate in innovative projects led by a diverse team of experts. You will also gain valuable teaching experience by working with undergrads as a teaching assistant or in other capacities. 

What You'll Learn 

The PhD in Physics consists of a minimum of 90 credit hours. At least six of those credit hours should be taken outside the department and at least six of those credit hours should be dedicated to seminars.

Within two years of full-time study, or 66 credit hours if you are a part-time student, you will take the required Comprehensive Exam. The topics covered in the exam include classical mechanics, electricity and magnetism, optics, thermal physics, quantum mechanics and modern physics (relativity, nuclear and solid-state).

As for specializations, you can develop one from the following areas:

• Biophysics 
• Chemical Mechanical Planarization 
• Computational Physics 
• Physics Education 

Credit Hours and Courses:

• A minimum of 90 credit hours beyond BS. Minimum 3 academic years’ full-time graduate study (or the part-time equivalent); 2 years in residence at Clarkson. A four-part Physics Survey Test is used to determine initial coursework.  A maximum of 30 credits (with B or higher grade) can be transferred from an MS degree. Coursework - no less than 33 credits, including at least 6 credits taken outside the department and at least 6 credits of seminar. Each semester prior to the completion of 78 credits, full-time students in residence at Clarkson must successfully complete PH683 or PH684. Maximum credit hours per year - 30 (12 in fall, 12 in spring and 6 in summer; or, 15 in fall and 15 in spring). Only 500 and upper-level courses are accepted.
• Full-time student status: 9 credits per semester until <9 credits remain to complete 90 credits. After completing 90 credits, students will register for 1 credit hour of project/thesis, be in residence, and be actively engaged full-time in completing the project/thesis.

Academic Standing and Other Requirements:

• A minimum average grade of B, and at least a B grade in each of the core courses (PH661, PH663, PH664, PH670 and PH669); The requirement for PH664 and PH670 can be fulfilled any time during the study, and the student’s advisor can approve replacements of these two courses by other advanced graduate courses in the student’s chosen research field.
• Satisfactory progress toward the degree. Academic progress is evaluated at the end of each term by the Physics Graduate Committee Chair in collaboration with the student’s advisor.
• Students with GPA falling below 3.000 will be placed on academic warning. These students will return to academic good standing if their GPA is 3.000 or higher at the end of their next term.
• Students must select a thesis topic and be assigned to a research advisor no later than the second semester of graduate study. The Physics Chair approves the appointment of a research advisor. Research projects primarily guided by faculty outside the physics department requires a physics co-advisor assigned by Physics Chair.
• Satisfactory completion of the Comprehensive Exam is required within two years of full-time study after admission to the PhD program or, for part-time students, before completing 66 credits. If the comprehensive exam is failed twice, the student will be dropped.
• The Physics Comprehensive Examination has two parts, each part four hours long, usually given during the first two weeks of each spring semester. The topical coverages are based on those of upper-level undergraduate physics courses offered at Clarkson, and include: Part I: Classical Mechanics, Electricity & Magnetism, Optics; Part II: Thermal Physics, Quantum Mechanics, Modern Physics (relativity, nuclear, solid state).
• By the end of the third year of study, the student writes a PhD research proposal and defends a doctoral topic before a thesis committee composed of at least 5 members. The proposal must be submitted to the thesis committee at least 10 working days before the oral defense. This exam should demonstrate that the thesis topic is of doctoral quality and that the student’s background is adequate to carry out the proposed research. A unanimous decision of the committee is required for passing. The thesis committee (selected by the student’s advisor and approved by the Physics Chair and the Dean of A&S) should include no less than 4 Clarkson faculty (at least 3 from physics) of assistant professor rank or higher and possessing an earned doctoral degree. At least one member must be from a department other than physics. With the provost’s approval, the thesis committee may include an external examiner with appropriate credentials from another university or industry.
• The final PhD examination involves an oral defense of the written doctoral dissertation before the thesis committee. The exam committee must receive thesis copies at least 10 working days before the oral defense.
• Typical program length is 5 years. All work for the PhD degree must be completed within 7 years after passing the Physics Comprehensive Examination.
• For additional information about University Requirements, students should consult Clarkson University’s current Graduate Regulations and Graduate Catalog.

Program Outcomes

After completing the Physics PhD Program at Clarkson University, students will be able to:

• Make use of advanced knowledge acquired from core areas of Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetism and Quantum Mechanics.
• Develop research plans and conduct experimental/ theoretical/ computational investigations in areas of their technical expertise.
• Take part in collaborative projects involving diverse teams of participants.
• Analyze, interpret and effectively communicate results of research topics both orally (e,g., in conference presentations) and in writing (e.g., in technical reports and journal publications).
• Demonstrate familiarity with current literature and practices in their field of specialization with a general understanding of scientific and ethical responsibilities.
• Develop investigative plans, carry out research projects and mentor students/trainees. 

Our faculty undertake innovative research in physics and interdisciplinary projects that help advance our understanding of the world. As a student, you will benefit from their mentorship and work closely with them in a collaborative and encouraging environment. Learn more about their experience and areas of specialization.

Meet Our Faculty  

The major areas of emphasis in our department include:

• Astrophysics 
• Bio- and Nano-technology
• Energy Storage 
• Materials Physics
• Nanoscale Systems 
• Nanotechnology 
• Network Theory 
• Physics Education
• Soft Matter and Polymer Physics 

As a student, you have access to Clarkson University centers like the Reynolds Observatory, the Physics Team Design Lab, the Laboratory for Electroanalytical Characterization of Materials and the Computational Laboratory. 

A complete application consists of the following:

• Online Application Form.
• Statement of purpose.
• Three letters of recommendation.
• Official transcripts.
• General GRE is required.
• Minimum test score requirements: TOEFL (80) and TOEFL Essentials (8.5), IELTS (6.5), PTE (56) or Duolingo English Test (115).
• The English language-testing requirement is not waived based on language of instruction, nor do we accept university certificates. English testing is waived if an applicant has a degree from a country where English is the Native Language. Click here to see the list of these countries.

Prerequisites: Applicants must have a BS or equivalent degree in physics or a closely related subject. Applicants are expected to have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher at the time of application. Furthermore, applicants should have achieved a grade of "B+" or better in all physics and math subjects taken.

For those seeking Teaching or Research Assistantships:

• A GRE score of at least 319 is recommended (minimum verbal score of 156 and minimum quantitative score of 163).
• GRE Physics Subject Test scores are not required but are recommended.
• International applicants should have a minimum score of 26 in each section of the TOEFL, 7.0 on each band of the IELTS (with a minimum Speaking band of 7.5) or comparable PTE or Duolingo English Test scores.

MS students interested in pursuing the PhD will be required to sit for the placement test offered by the Department of Physics. This is offered annually in August. This score, in addition to prior academic record, publications and teaching performance, will be considered prior to formal admittance into the PhD program.

Most current graduate students are supported by Teaching Assistantships or Research Assistantships. A full appointment covers the 30 credit hours of tuition and provides a stipend that covers estimated living expenses. Discuss opportunities and how to apply with the department staff and/or program coordinator directly.

We host a variety of seminars and lectures throughout the year with visiting professors, industry leaders and other professionals widely recognized in the field.

The program is held on our main campus in Potsdam, New York. Many of our full-time, research-based master's and PhD programs are housed here, as well. You will be in close proximity to research facilities, onsite laboratories and other resources.

Potsdam Campus

Career Possibilities

The PhD program at Clarkson University provides the rigorous training and research-heavy experience required to enter the world of academia. With your degree, you can apply to professorships and positions in prestigious research centers.

You will also graduate with skills that are attractive to employers in the science and tech industries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for physicists is expected to grow faster than average in the next decade.

The degree can open doors in the following industries and facilities:

• Observatories
• Private industry
• Research laboratories

Recent Employers

Recent Clarkson PhD in Physics graduates have been employed by companies such as:

• Applied Materials
• Intel Corporation
• Global Foundries
• Lockheed Martin
• Micron Technology

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Graduate Admissions Email: [email protected] Phone: 518-631-9831

Interested in learning more about the PhD in Physics? Contact the Office of Graduate Admissions today with your questions.

Find out more about the Physics Department .

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PhD in Chemistry

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PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Deepen your expertise.

Gain specialized knowledge, conduct original research and qualify for a wide range of academic and industry opportunities with a PhD in Physics from Clarkson.

Department of Physics

Mellon college of science, physics graduate program.

Our graduate program trains students at the leading edge of physics research, preparing them to become the next generation of leaders in academia and industry. The first two years of the graduate curriculum are designed to provide students with the solid foundation necessary to perform research in their chosen area of specialization. During this period, they study core physics areas such as quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, electrodynamics or condensed matter theory. They then specialize in areas such as astrophysics, biophysics, nanophysics, quark interactions or high energy physics and have to opportunity to perform interdisciplinary work at the boundaries of chemistry, biology, materials science, and engineering.

Candidates for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Physics should expect to spend at least four years, or the equivalent, in full-time graduate study, including a minimum of one year of full-time work at Carnegie Mellon. Formal admission to candidacy for the Ph.D. depends on acceptable performance in teaching, research and course work, as well as the Qualifying Examination. Affiliation with a research group is encouraged to happen before admission to Ph.D. candidacy and can take place as early as the first semester; it is expected that those arrangements have been made at the latest by the end of the second year of graduate study.

Beyond the conventional Ph.D. program, Carnegie Mellon offers a degree in Applied Physics. Ph.D. thesis research that may appropriately be characterized as Applied Physics can be carried out either within the Physics Department or in conjunction with other branches of the University, such as the Robotics Institute, the Data Storage Systems Center, the Materials Science and Engineering Department or the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department.

Service performed as a teaching or research assistant is part of the graduate training. Such service, or its equivalent, is required of all candidates for graduate degrees whether or not they receive stipends.

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Doctor of Philosophy in Physics

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• Preliminary and Comprehensive Exams

Candidates for the Doctor of Philosophy degree in physics are required to complete fifty-three semester hours, of which thirty-five must be in physics. In the physics courses, a B average must be maintained. Mastery of the material presented in PHYS 525, 611, 612, 615, 621, 622, 623, 624, 659, and 660 is required of all students. Additional work is arranged according to the preferences of the student. A maximum of nine semester hours in courses below 600 may be applied toward the degree. A comprehensive examination, which includes both written and oral parts, must be passed after the equivalent of two full years of study. In addition, candidates must present a satisfactory dissertation.

Prospective students are invited to contact the department for additional information. Nearly all full-time graduate students in Physics at Catholic University receive substantial financial support. The application for teaching assistantships and graduate fellowships can be found by clicking here .mGeneral Information about graduate admission at Catholic University is available from the Office of Admission . Dissertation forms can be found through the Graduate Studies site .

Graduate Admission

Apply for acceptance in our master's and doctoral degree programs in Physics.

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Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory

2024 phd graduate – modeler and data analyst.

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Are you an expert in developing physics-based acoustic or electromagnetic wave propagation models?

Are you passionate about designing and testing prototype sensors?

If you are graduating with a PhD in Physics, Engineering, or Applied Mathematics and want to work in acoustic or electromagnetic sensors and systems, we’d love to have you join our team!

We are seeking a Modeler and Data Analyst to help us design, prototype, and test novel sonar and electromagnetic systems and concepts. As a member of our team, you will contribute to advancing U.S. Navy capabilities through sensor system performance prediction and assessment. You will be joining a hardworking team of physicists, engineers, and mathematicians who take new acoustic and electromagnetic sensor systems from concept to reality in support of U.S. homeland security. We are passionate about understanding physical phenomena and how they may be utilized. Our team is committed to solving new and evolving challenges as we strive to foster a collaborative environment of continuous learning.

As a member of our team… • Your primary responsibility will be to conduct sensor system performance modeling for undersea warfare projects

• You will develop, maintain, and extend models of underwater acoustic or electromagnetic propagation and system performance

• You will analyze sonar or electromagnetic system data

• You will document and present results

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you… • Have a PhD in Physics, Engineering, or Applied Mathematics • Have knowledge of acoustic or electromagnetic wave propagation • Are proficient in MATLAB or Python

• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You’ll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you… • Have experience in collecting sonar data and comparing to model predictions • Have experience with electromagnetic sensors

• Are familiar with acoustic source and receiver technology • Have experience using high performance computing or software development best practices

Why work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

APL is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

APL is committed to promoting an innovative environment that embraces diversity, encourages creativity, and supports inclusion of new ideas. In doing so, we are committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact [email protected]. Only by ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard are we empowered to be bold, do great things, and make the world a better place.

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Understanding quantum physics is a must for any physicist. With a quantum physics degree, graduates may work in research, engineering and education, among other fields. These are the top schools for quantum physics. Read the methodology »

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PhD Scholarship in Particle Physics, University of Liège, Belgium

PhD Scholarship in Particle Physics: The Montefiore AI for Science lab at the University of Liège, Belgium, is offering a PhD position in simulation-based inference for particle physics. Under the supervision of Prof. Gilles Louppe, the selected candidate will contribute to the development of simulation-based inference methods tailored for particle physics at the LHC. This position is part of the broader PDR-WEAVE project funded by the Belgian F.R.S.-FNRS and the German DFG, focusing on “Ultra-Fast Event Generation using Neural Networks.”

PhD Scholarship in Simulation-Based Inference for Particle Physics

Study Area: Simulation-Based Inference for Particle Physics

Location: University of Liège, Belgium, Europe

Eligibility/Qualification: Candidates should hold a Master’s degree in Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or Data Science. An avid interest in fundamental physics, statistical inference, and deep learning is essential. Experience with particle physics, likelihood-free inference, and/or deep generative models is advantageous.

Description: The PhD position entails working on the development of simulation-based inference methods specific to particle physics at the LHC. Research topics include unfolding with deep generative models, refining likelihood estimation methods, integration with particle physics simulators like MadMiner, and advancing Frequentist simulation-based inference beyond the LHC scope. The position offers a collaborative environment within the PDR-WEAVE project, with opportunities for joint PhD degrees and close collaboration with partner institutions.

How to Apply: Interested applicants should submit a resume and a brief motivation letter to Prof. Gilles Louppe via email at [email protected] . The position remains open until filled.

Last Date: June 30, 2024

Successful candidates will engage in a stimulating research environment, collaborating with experts in the field and contributing to cutting-edge developments in simulation-based inference for particle physics. This fully-funded position offers a duration of 4 years at the University of Liège, Belgium. For further inquiries, please contact Prof. Gilles Louppe at [email protected] .

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