Theoretical Physics

The PhD program in the Department of Physics is intended to produce competent independent researchers who are able to make original contributions to physical sciences. The program prepares students for careers in research, teaching, or industry and thus provides qualified scientists for Lebanon and the region. It serves the AUB mission of promoting research and participating in the advancement of knowledge.

The research activities of the department include material science, condensed and soft matter physics, plasma physics, paramagnetic resonance, nonlinear dynamics, astrophysics, high energy physics, superstring theory, and quantum gravity.

The PhD program requires the completion of at least 39 credit hours of course work for students admitted on the accelerated track (BS holders) and a minimum of 18 credit hours of course work for students admitted on the regular track (MS holders).

The required courses for students admitted on the accelerated track are: PHYS 301, PHYS 302, PHYS 303, PHYS 305, PHYS 306 and PHYS 307 (18 credits), and at least 21 credits beyond the core program, out of which one course must be in the concentration area, while the others can be taken as electives. Students may take relevant courses outside the department provided they secure departmental approval.

The required courses for students admitted on the regular track are: PHYS 306 and 307 (6 credits), and at least 12 credits beyond the core program, out of which one course must be in the concentration area, while the others can be taken as electives. Students may take relevant courses outside the department provided they secure departmental approval.

A student is granted the PhD degree upon approval of her/his PhD thesis by the thesis committee in a public session. In addition to the general graduation guidelines specified by the University, the Physics Department also requires that part of the PhD thesis work be published or accepted for publication in a refereed journal by the time of graduation.

Admission to the PhD program is on a competitive basis. To be eligible for admission, applicants must have an excellent academic record and must demonstrate exceptional motivation and ability to pursue research in physics. The following items are required for an application: • Degrees: – For the Regular Track1 : A master’s (MS) degree in Physics or related fields from an institution recognized by AUB; For the Accelerated Track1 : A Bachelor’s (BS) degree in Physics or related fields from an institution recognized by AUB; • Three letters of recommendation; • GRE General Test is required as per AUB requirements. Subject GRE is required as per Physics Department requirements (No GRE is required for applicants to the MS program); • For English, refer to the English Language Proficiency Requirements (ELPR) section in the catalogues; • A statement of purpose; and • A recommendation for admission by the AUB Department of Physics. A departmental committee may require an interview with the applicant before giving a recommendation.

The department offers, on a selective basis, substantial support which fully covers tuition and includes a monthly stipend. There are also some funds available to support participation in international conferences; these funds are awarded on a competitive basis. In return, students help in teaching undergraduate labs and recitations of introductory courses. Their duties also include help in proctoring and correcting exams.