Condensed Matter Physics

Research projects available for the DPhil in Condensed Matter Physics include topics in biological physics, quantum materials and semiconductor materials, devices and nanostructures. Research in the department ranges from fundamental physics questions to interdisciplinary research and technological applications.

A DPhil in Condensed Matter Physics can provide a springboard for a career in research but also serves as a broad high-level qualification. Students have found careers in academic and industrial research organisations, the financial sector, information technology, consultancy, media etc. Some go on to further training in, for example, medicine and law.

The DPhil in Condensed Matter Physics (CMP) is a research-based three- to four-year course. You will be supervised throughout the entire duration of the programme and join the research group of your supervisor. There will usually be opportunity to attend conferences or conduct experiments in other institutions inside or outside the UK.

During the first year you will be required to attend lectures and courses to increase your basic and specialist physics knowledge. In the following years you will concentrate on your research work.

You will be assigned to a research group: work on your original research project will start immediately and continue for the duration of your DPhil. During the first year you will also be expected to attend lectures and classes.

At the end of the first year you are expected to submit a report on your research and to defend it in an interview with the Graduate Studies Panel and a specialist reader. The panel will determine whether you can transfer status from Probationer Research Student to DPhil student.

Towards the end of the second year you will present a poster to the sub-department. Discussion of your research project with panel members at the poster session will contribute to the decision whether to confirm your status as DPhil student.

At the end of the third year you are expected to give a talk to the sub-department and to answer questions following the presentation.

MSc by Research in Condensed Matter Physics

In exceptional cases applicants may apply for a MSc by Research degree, which requires a shorter registration period. Please contact the department for further information and advice about admission to this course.

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in physics or another relevant science. The degree must be at the level of MPhys, MSc, MSci or equivalent. Bachelor's degrees with a minimum four years standard duration may satisfy the entry requirements. 

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the typical minimum GPA sought is 3.3 out of 4.0. However, selection of candidates also depends on other factors in your application. Entry is competitive and most successful applicants have achieved higher GPA scores. 

If you hold non-UK qualifications and wish to check how your qualifications match these requirements, you can contact the National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom (UK NARIC).

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

In exceptional cases professional or research experience might be accepted as a substitute for a master's degree. 

How to apply

You may make contact with a prospective supervisor before applying to discuss possible research projects.

The set of documents you should send with your application to this course comprises the following:

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Research project proposal:300 to 1,500 words
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, all of which must be academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Standard level

• Global Education
• Hill Foundation Scholarships