The Physics Pathway can be taken as either a single-weighted or double-weighted option. The single weighted Physics pathway must be taken in combination with the single Maths pathway.
Physics is the core science that drives progress across all scientific fields.
Through the Physics Pathway, you can learning about condensed matter, ultra-low temperatures, accelerators and high-energy particles, astrophysics, cosmology and space - areas in which our Physics Department excels through world-leading research. You'll develop the knowledge and skills needed to work in clean energy, space weather or systems engineering, modelling climate change, or research.
Explore electricity, magnetism, thermodynamics, and quantum physics, providing a strong foundation in classical and modern physics. You will learn about electric and magnetic fields and forces through developing an understanding of Maxwell’s equations and their application. You will study topics in thermodynamics including heat transfer and ideal gases. You will be introduced to quantum mechanics, by examining atomic models, wave-particle duality, and the Schrödinger equation. Through problem-solving and conceptual understanding, you will develop analytical skills applicable in physics, engineering, and research. You will learn to apply mathematical models, understand physical principles, and interpret experimental results, essential for careers in scientific and technological fields.
We introduce you to the fundamental nature of Physics and teach you key skills in the use of experiment and uncertainty, units, and dimensional analysis. You will study topics such as Newton’s laws of motion, rotation of rigid bodies and the gravitational force. You will also be introduced to more advanced concepts such as special relativity and Lagrangian mechanics. You will apply some of these concepts to astronomical problems such as determining escape speed, and the motion of satellites and planetary orbits. You will learn about some exotic phenomena like black holes and dark matter.
Throughout your degree you gain a unique skills set based on your understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of sciences. In this module we develop your self-awareness of these skills and how to make the most of graduate-level employment opportunities.
We introduce you to the University’s employability resources including job search techniques and search engine use. We develop your skills in writing CVs and cover letters, and we draw on the expertise of employers and alumni. Your ability to effectively use these resources will enhance your employability skills, your communication skills and help you to develop a short-term career plan.
We introduce you to essential experimental and physics skills through hands-on laboratory work and lectures. You'll learn about data collection, statistical analysis, and error assessment, along with key principles in areas such as optics, mechanics, and circuits. The module addresses ethical behaviour in science, health and safety in experimentation, and IT skills for analysis and report writing. Practical experience is gained through laboratory sessions. You will develop your ability to work independently and in teams, keep detailed lab records, undertake critical analysis, discuss their results, and write scientific reports.
Learn the basic mathematical techniques required for studying physics at degree level and beyond. In particular, you will develop skills in linear algebra and matrices, Fourier analysis, and solving differential equations. You will be able to determine eigenvalues and eigenvectors of linear operators and be able to manipulate the algebra of Pauli matrices and commutation relations. The module will allow you to express a periodic function as a Fourier series and to find the Fourier transform of a function. As an application of these skills and techniques, you will solve various common types of linear equations, ordinary differential equations and partial differential equations.
In this module you will explore electromagnetism through the beauty of Maxwell’s equations and the mathematical tools of vector calculus. Using these, you will be able to describe electromagnetic fields and waves created by simple configurations of charges and currents, and to model the effects of media on the propagation of electromagnetic waves. You will investigate the basic properties of wave propagation, diffraction and interference, and of simple optical instruments. This will enable you to make connections between the many different phenomena in nature that share the mathematical model of a harmonic oscillator or of a wave.
Learn how physics principles, including quantum mechanics and many-particle statistics, underpin the properties of materials. This will allow you to relate features of atoms, electrons and phonons in solids to their macroscopic properties including electrical, magnetic and thermal. You will be able to connect the microscopic and macroscopic pictures of the thermal properties of solids, and to describe the quantum statistics of degenerate Fermi gases, Bose-Einstein condensation, superfluidity in liquid helium and black body radiation.
In this module you will exploit advanced programming concepts to model a physical system. You will explore advanced Python topics and numerical algorithms for scientific modelling and engage in data visualisation and analysis techniques to interpret physical data effectively. You will also be introduced to essential software development tools such as version control, code repositories, and automated testing, fostering collaboration and professional coding practices. A final project will involve designing and implementing a physics simulation and validating its outputs. Throughout, ethical considerations in programming and scientific integrity will be emphasised to ensure responsible and reproducible research practices.
Learn the fundamentals of quantum theory and how it applies to concrete physical systems. The module begins by establishing a basic working knowledge of nonrelativistic quantum mechanics based on the Schrödinger equation. You will develop skills necessary to apply quantum mechanics to simple, exactly solvable problems, as well as finding approximate descriptions of more complex quantum systems. This will enable you to make precise predictions for the behaviour of realistic quantum systems, and to understand the significance of the predictions for experimental observations. As a major application, you will use these skills to describe the basic characteristics of atomic structure, the processes of atomic transitions, and to explain the origin of selection rules. The module also covers the concept of spin, its fundamental role in quantum mechanics, and its effects on atomic structure and spectra.
Learn about the structure and life cycle of stars, as well as their formation and interactions with their local environments. This will include an introduction to radiative transfer as it applies to the interstellar medium and stellar interiors, formation and evolution timescales in multiple stellar and nebular contexts, and coverage of the key factors driving the formation, structure and evolution of stars at different masses. By studying the end-to-end life cycle of stars of all types, as well as the environments in which they form, live and die, you will develop an understanding of the processes that give rise to the objects that we observe across the universe. You’ll apply concepts from quantum, nuclear, particle, condensed and relativistic physics to explain the stellar remnants at the end of a star’s life such as white dwarfs, neutron stars and black holes.
We teach an overview of theoretical methods used in classical mechanics, giving the background for later quantum mechanics modules. You will learn variational approaches to derive equations of motion within the frameworks of Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics. This will allow you to exploit the power of these techniques by using appropriate generalised coordinates. You will also apply these methods to dynamical problems in classical mechanics, introducing the concepts of phase space, stability of motion and chaos. The module also covers the concepts of transformation, invariance and symmetry in physics and their mathematical description including group theory. You will learn to apply group theoretic methods to a range of advanced theoretical physics problems.
Work together in a group with other students to conduct open-ended research tackling a current question in astrophysics and learn how to plan, execute and conclude a project. You will research the literature and propose a suitable topic to investigate, set objectives and identify appropriate data and tools. You will apply astrophysics and space physics knowledge to state-of-the-art astrophysical observations, including imaging and spectroscopic datasets, to make discoveries. You will develop professional data analysis and programming skills that will be useful for future careers in industry and research. Finally, you will communicate your findings by writing a scientific report, producing a summary for a general audience, and giving a presentation at the annual School of Physics and Astronomy’s student conference.
*Students must select one project in the physics pathway and must undertake the associated lecture module for this project: Space Physics (Please find individual module descriptions below).
In this module we continue to develop your employability skills. We focus on your ability to communicate your scientific learning to reflect the interdisciplinary nature of your degree and empower you when it comes to job applications and interviews. This includes practice for assessment centres and associated tasks such as psychometric testing and skills testing, and 1-1 recruitment selection or panel-based interviews.
Work in a group to tackle an open-ended physics question. With the support of the module leader, you will learn to research the field, plan and execute group work and communicate your conclusions. Dividing tasks among your group, you will apply your laboratory skills, physics knowledge and computer modelling techniques to undertake in-depth investigations. Projects will be offered from the broad areas of quantum physics and particle physics, with specific titles updated from year to year. You will communicate your findings by writing a scientific report, producing a summary for a general audience, and giving a presentation at the annual Physics student conference.
*Students must select one project in the physics pathway and must undertake one of the associated lecture modules for this project: Foundations of Quantum Technology or Relativity, Nuclear and Particle Physics (Please find individual module descriptions below).
As part of a group, and supported by a supervisor, apply your mathematical or computer modelling techniques to an open-ended investigation of either real-world applications or models in theoretical physics or mathematics.
Projects vary from year to year; examples of recent projects include:
You will communicate your findings by writing a scientific report, producing a summary for a general audience, and giving a presentation at the annual School of Physics and Astronomy’s student conference.
*Students must select one project in the physics pathway and must undertake the associated lecture module for this project: Field Theory in Quantum Mechanics (Please find individual module descriptions below).
Explore astrophysical observations, measurements, and simulations, gaining hands-on experience in their analysis and interpretation. Building on your programming knowledge, you will manipulate data and develop tailored analyses to answer questions and draw conclusions. Varied investigations will provide opportunities to study topics such as stars, galaxies, and solar-planetary physics while enhancing your analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Additionally, you will refine your contemporary record-keeping techniques and strengthen your scientific writing for effective communication.
*Students must select one project in the physics pathway and must undertake the associated lecture module for this project: Space Physics; Astrophysical Data lab (Please find individual module descriptions below).
Explore the physics of semiconductors, superconductors and magnetic materials. You will learn how the properties of these materials arise from their microscopic structure and from interactions between atoms, electrons and phonons. You will gain a deeper understanding of the role of statistical concepts in understanding macroscopic systems and be able to solve selected model problems using advanced methods from condensed matter theory.
Cosmology treats the entire universe as a physical system. Investigate the evolution of the universe from the big bang, the cataclysmic explosion which started it all, through to its final fate in the distant future. Further areas of study include the dynamics of the universe as a whole, the initial singularity from which it originated, and the violent history of the early universe. You’ll also investigate the cosmic microwave background, the formation of structure (such as galaxies and galaxy clusters), cosmological horizons, dark matter and dark energy. You’ll consider the origin of matter, the age of the universe and the reason why is the sky is dark at night as you explore the limits of human knowledge and understanding.
Through a series of lectures, workshops, hands-on coursework and numerical simulations, gain command of advanced theoretical tools and mathematical methods for modelling and simulating many-body quantum systems. Specifically, you will learn the second quantisation and path integral methods of theoretical physics, supported by the mathematics of complex analysis. This enables you to apply basic concepts and techniques of field theory and its approximation methods. The workshops will provide a playground for hands-on use of these field theory techniques, culminating in an independent investigative simulation of a quantum system.
*Mandatory to be taken alongside Theoretical Physics Group Project module. Otherwise, optional.
Investigate the importance of conservation laws and discrete symmetries in particle interactions and experiments used to determine them. You will explore topics such as quark mixing, heavy-flavour physics, neutrino oscillations and particle interactions with matter. You will then use your knowledge of particle interactions with matter to understand the design of particle detectors and accelerators. Results and measurements from particle physics experiments will be used throughout the module to highlight the topics presented.
Dive into our School’s top research fields, semiconductor device physics and ultra-low temperature physics, with significance placed on condensed matter science and emerging quantum technologies.
You will explore spontaneous and stimulated photon emissions in LEDs and lasers, and the characteristics of superconductivity and superfluidity at low temperatures. Building on earlier laboratory experience, you will plan and undertake more complex experiments, improving your ability to collect and process challenging data and to relate your findings to important research and technologies. Research lab tours and expert supervision will introduce you to the links between the experiments and ongoing research. The skills you will develop are valuable in research, engineering and technical careers.
Study advanced concepts and formalisms in quantum mechanics as used in quantum information, quantum communication and quantum computing. Learn about cutting-edge ideas in quantum mechanics including qubits and the Bloch sphere, entanglement, and pure and mixed states. As you progress through this module, you will develop skills in linear algebra techniques including matrix algebra, Dirac notation and density matrices.
*Students undertaking the Physics Group Project module also take one of the associated lecture modules: Foundations of Quantum Technology or Relativity, Nuclear and Particle Physics.
Explore the topics of relativity, nuclear physics and particle physics and learn about the principles of special relativity, Lorentz transformations and four-vectors. You will use relativity to understand topics such as particle decays and the doppler effect. In nuclear physics, you will study properties of nuclei, radioactive decay, nuclear fission and fusion. In particle physics, you will learn about the Standard Model, particle interactions, the structure of matter and modern particle physics experiments. Gain an understanding of the fundamental building blocks of the universe.
*Students undertaking the Physics Group Project module also take one of the associated lecture modules: Foundations of Quantum Technology or Relativity, Nuclear and Particle Physics.
From the birth of our solar system to the exploration of planetary environments, delve into the fundamental physics governing our local cosmic neighbourhood. You’ll study the formation of planetary bodies, their surfaces, atmospheres, and their interactions with space. Core physics principles - mechanics, thermodynamics, and electromagnetism - are applied to real-world observations, helping you analyse solar system dynamics and solve key problems in planetary science. A major focus is the interaction between the solar wind and planetary magnetospheres, leading to fascinating space weather phenomena like auroras. By the end of this module, you’ll have a strong foundation in space physics, an appreciation for the complexities of planetary evolution, and the ability to apply physics-based techniques to both our solar system and the study of exoplanetary systems and beyond.
*Mandatory to be taken alongside Astrophysics Group Project module. Otherwise, optional.
Do you want to entertain and inspire children and the public in STEM? With an introduction to teaching as well as wider engagement opportunities, learn how to understand your audience and how to engage and enliven them. You will also learn how to balance this with educating them and presenting science in a way that’s appropriate to your audience. We include an introduction to pedagogy, how to inspire school pupils and how to use traditional and new media for science communication.
You will deliver an activity of your choosing to an audience. This could be a lesson at school, engaging with children at a large outreach event or delivering a public lecture. In addition, you will also reflect on your activity to discuss what you’ve learnt and what changes you would make. You can deliver this by either video, podcast or article.
This individual project forms the exciting core of Year 4. Working across both semesters, you will experience cutting-edge research and complete a major open-ended investigation. The projects we offer are diverse and updated every year in line with current research activities, making use of available facilities and datasets. They are taught through individual supervision and training seminars to further develop your research and communication skills. To start the project, you will research the area and prepare a literature review. From this foundation you will plan, manage and execute your own investigative work. Throughout the project, you will use and develop your abilities to synthesise technical information, keep a contemporary record of your activity, and conduct research in a safe and ethical manner. The project is excellent preparation for research at postgraduate level or in an industrial setting, whilst also developing transferable skills in communication and project work, highly desired by employers.
Learn how complex phenomena in condensed matter physics are applied to create useful solid-state devices and nanoscale structures. You will explore physical concepts related to quantum transport and states of matter in low-dimensional systems and employ appropriate theoretical tools to describe their electronic behaviour. By the end of this module, you will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the physical effects underpinning the characteristics of common nanoscale devices, including quantum dots and nanomechanical structures, and discuss methods used in their fabrication and characterisation.
Learn about quantum technology applications in quantum optics and in solid state systems. Develop an understanding of the physics governing the characteristics of laser light, the foundations of atom-light interactions and their quantum-optical applications and technologies. You will describe how solid-state phenomena, including superconductivity, are employed for quantum technologies. You will also learn about practical techniques needed to produce the low temperatures required by such technologies. Throughout this module, you will develop your skills in linear algebra techniques, perform calculations and solve problems related to quantum technologies.
Study the evolution of galaxies, from the early universe to the present, linking with stellar physics and the latest discoveries in observational cosmology across the electromagnetic spectrum. Explore how astrophysical plasmas characterise the environments of remote and local regions of space, including the plasma structures found in solar and planetary systems. As you advance through the module, you will gain insight of current research in these fields and the observations on which our understanding is based.
Dive into transformations and corresponding symmetries, group theory and its applications in particle physics, and the basics of the gauge-invariant field theories. You will use these topics to understand the properties of the quarks and leptons and their strong, electromagnetic and weak interactions. You will explore topics such as spontaneous symmetry breaking and the Higgs mechanism. This module will describe the foundations of the Standard Model of particle physics and its possible extensions.
We introduce you to Einstein's theory of General Relativity, which is our current understanding of gravity, exploring the relationship between Newtonian mechanics and relativity. In general relativity there is no long-range gravitational force, only a local response to the curvature of spacetime. You will study black holes, gravitational waves, and cosmological phenomena such as cosmic inflation and the big bang. Key topics include the Einstein field equations, gravitational redshift and lensing, orbital precession, and relativistic electromagnetism. In this module you will also explore advanced concepts such as Hawking radiation, black hole thermodynamics and traversable wormholes. By the end, you will have developed strong problem-solving skills and a solid grasp of relativistic principles, enabling you to perform calculations and understand the geometry of spacetime and intense gravity.
The analysis of large datasets using numerical and statistical method is a rapidly growing field used extensively in the modern world to predict trends, inform decisions and solve complex problems. Data science is used in both scientific research and across industries including finance, healthcare, engineering, and technology. In this module, you will be introduced to, implement and apply data analysis techniques to both problems in modern physics and real-world scenarios. You'll explore state-of-the-art computational and numerical methods used to evaluate data, including hypothesis testing, posteriors, sampling, likelihoods, machine learning and data fitting techniques. By the end of the module, you will have developed skills in data analysis and visualisation as a means of understanding and efficiently conveying high-level information.
Explore electricity, magnetism, thermodynamics, and quantum physics, providing a strong foundation in classical and modern physics. You will learn about electric and magnetic fields and forces through developing an understanding of Maxwell’s equations and their application. You will study topics in thermodynamics including heat transfer and ideal gases. You will be introduced to quantum mechanics, by examining atomic models, wave-particle duality, and the Schrödinger equation. Through problem-solving and conceptual understanding, you will develop analytical skills applicable in physics, engineering, and research. You will learn to apply mathematical models, understand physical principles, and interpret experimental results, essential for careers in scientific and technological fields.
Develop some of the key mathematical skills required to tackle problems in physics. Explore polynomial, trigonometric, and exponential functions, learning their properties and transformations. Differentiation and integration techniques, such as the chain rule, Taylor series, and integration by parts, will be applied to physical problems like motion and energy. The module also introduces complex numbers, Euler’s formula, and their use in solving differential equations and wave phenomena. These mathematical tools are fundamental for modelling physical systems, analysing experimental data, and solving equations in classical and quantum mechanics.
In this module you will cover key mathematical techniques essential for physics, including series, differential equations, multivariable calculus, and vector analysis. You will learn to solve first- and second-order differential equations with applications to physics problems like the damped harmonic oscillator. Multivariable calculus topics include partial derivatives, gradient vectors, and parametric representations of curves and surfaces. Vector calculus introduces divergence, curl, and integral theorems such as Gauss’ and Stokes’ theorems, crucial for understanding electromagnetism. By mastering these mathematical tools, you will develop problem-solving and analytical skills applicable in physics, engineering, and computational sciences. These concepts provide the foundation for modelling physical systems, analysing force fields, and solving complex real-world problems.
We introduce you to the fundamental nature of Physics and teach you key skills in the use of experiments, uncertainty, units, and dimensional analysis. You will study topics such as Newton’s laws of motion, rotation of rigid bodies and the gravitational force. You will also be introduced to more advanced concepts such as special relativity and Lagrangian mechanics. You will apply some of these concepts to astronomical problems such as determining escape speed and the motion of satellites and planetary orbits. You will learn about some exotic phenomena like black holes and dark matter.
Throughout your degree you gain a unique skills set based on your understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of sciences. In this module we develop your self-awareness of these skills and how to make the most of graduate-level employment opportunities.
We introduce you to the University’s employability resources including job search techniques and search engine use. We develop your skills in writing CVs and cover letters, and we draw on the expertise of employers and alumni. Your ability to effectively use these resources will enhance your employability skills, your communication skills and help you to develop a short-term career plan.
Learn the basic mathematical techniques required for studying physics at degree level and beyond. In particular, you will develop skills in linear algebra and matrices, Fourier analysis, and solving differential equations. You will be able to determine eigenvalues and eigenvectors of linear operators and be able to manipulate the algebra of Pauli matrices and commutation relations. The module will allow you to express a periodic function as a Fourier series and to find the Fourier transform of a function. As an application of these skills and techniques, you will solve various common types of linear equations, ordinary differential equations and partial differential equations.
We introduce you to essential experimental and physics skills through hands-on laboratory work and lectures. You'll learn about data collection, statistical analysis, and error assessment, along with key principles in areas such as optics, mechanics, and circuits. The module addresses ethical behaviour in science, health and safety in experimentation, and IT skills for analysis and report writing. Practical experience is gained through laboratory sessions. You will develop your ability to work independently and in teams, keep detailed lab records, undertake critical analysis, discuss their results, and write scientific reports.
In this module, you will explore electromagnetism through the beauty of Maxwell’s equations and the mathematical tools of vector calculus. Using these, you will be able to describe electromagnetic fields and waves created by simple configurations of charges and currents, and to model the effects of media on the propagation of electromagnetic waves. You will investigate the basic properties of wave propagation, diffraction and interference, and of simple optical instruments. This will enable you to make connections between the many different phenomena in nature that share the mathematical model of a harmonic oscillator or of a wave.
Learn how physics principles, including quantum mechanics and many-particle statistics, underpin the properties of materials. This will allow you to relate features of atoms, electrons and phonons in solids to their macroscopic properties including electrical, magnetic and thermal. You will be able to connect the microscopic and macroscopic pictures of the thermal properties of solids, and to describe the quantum statistics of degenerate Fermi gases, Bose-Einstein condensation, superfluidity in liquid helium and black body radiation.
In this module you will exploit advanced programming concepts to model a physical system. You will explore advanced Python topics and numerical algorithms for scientific modelling and engage in data visualisation and analysis techniques to interpret physical data effectively. You will also be introduced to essential software development tools such as version control, code repositories, and automated testing, fostering collaboration and professional coding practices. A final project will involve designing and implementing a physics simulation and validating its outputs. Throughout, ethical considerations in programming and scientific integrity will be emphasised to ensure responsible and reproducible research practices.
Learn the fundamentals of quantum theory and how it applies to concrete physical systems. The module begins by establishing a basic working knowledge of nonrelativistic quantum mechanics based on the Schrödinger equation. You will develop skills necessary to apply quantum mechanics to simple, exactly solvable problems, as well as finding approximate descriptions of more complex quantum systems. This will enable you to make precise predictions for the behaviour of realistic quantum systems, and to understand the significance of the predictions for experimental observations. As a major application, you will use these skills to describe the basic characteristics of atomic structure, the processes of atomic transitions, and to explain the origin of selection rules. The module also covers the concept of spin, its fundamental role in quantum mechanics, and its effects on atomic structure and spectra.
Learn about the structure and life cycle of stars, as well as their formation and interactions with their local environments. This will include an introduction to radiative transfer as it applies to the interstellar medium and stellar interiors, formation and evolution timescales in multiple stellar and nebular contexts, and coverage of the key factors driving the formation, structure and evolution of stars at different masses. By studying the end-to-end life cycle of stars of all types, as well as the environments in which they form, live and die, you will develop an understanding of the processes that give rise to the objects that we observe across the universe. You’ll apply concepts from quantum, nuclear, particle, condensed and relativistic physics to explain the stellar remnants at the end of a star’s life such as white dwarfs, neutron stars and black holes.
We teach an overview of theoretical methods used in classical mechanics, giving the background for later quantum mechanics modules. You will learn variational approaches to derive equations of motion within the frameworks of Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics. This will allow you to exploit the power of these techniques by using appropriate generalised coordinates. You will also apply these methods to dynamical problems in classical mechanics, introducing the concepts of phase space, stability of motion and chaos. The module also covers the concepts of transformation, invariance and symmetry in physics and their mathematical description including group theory. You will learn to apply group theoretic methods to a range of advanced theoretical physics problems.
Work together in a group with other students to conduct open-ended research tackling a current question in astrophysics and learn how to plan, execute and conclude a project. You will research the literature and propose a suitable topic to investigate, set objectives and identify appropriate data and tools. You will apply astrophysics and space physics knowledge to state-of-the-art astrophysical observations, including imaging and spectroscopic datasets, to make discoveries. You will develop professional data analysis and programming skills that will be useful for future careers in industry and research. Finally, you will communicate your findings by writing a scientific report, producing a summary for a general audience, and giving a presentation at the annual School of Physics and Astronomy’s student conference.
*Students must select one project in the physics pathway and must undertake the associated lecture module for this project: Space Physics (Please find individual module descriptions below).
In this module we continue to develop your employability skills. We focus on your ability to communicate your scientific learning to reflect the interdisciplinary nature of your degree and empower you when it comes to job applications and interviews. This includes practice for assessment centres and associated tasks such as psychometric testing and skills testing, and 1-1 recruitment selection or panel-based interviews.
Work in a group to tackle an open-ended physics question. With the support of the module leader, you will learn to research the field, plan and execute group work and communicate your conclusions. Dividing tasks among your group, you will apply your laboratory skills, physics knowledge and computer modelling techniques to undertake in-depth investigations. Projects will be offered from the broad areas of quantum physics and particle physics, with specific titles updated from year to year. You will communicate your findings by writing a scientific report, producing a summary for a general audience, and giving a presentation at the annual Physics student conference.
*Students must select one project in the physics pathway and must undertake one of the associated lecture modules for this project: Foundations of Quantum Technology or Relativity, Nuclear and Particle Physics (Please find individual module descriptions below).
As part of a group, and supported by a supervisor, apply your mathematical or computer modelling techniques to an open-ended investigation of either real-world applications or models in theoretical physics or mathematics.
Projects vary from year to year; examples of recent projects include:
You will communicate your findings by writing a scientific report, producing a summary for a general audience, and giving a presentation at the annual School of Physics and Astronomy's student conference.
*Students must select one project in the physics pathway and must undertake the associated lecture module for this project: Field Theory in Quantum Mechanics (Please find individual module descriptions below).
Explore astrophysical observations, measurements, and simulations, gaining hands-on experience in their analysis and interpretation. Building on your programming knowledge, you will manipulate data and develop tailored analyses to answer questions and draw conclusions. Varied investigations will provide opportunities to study topics such as stars, galaxies, and solar-planetary physics while enhancing your analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Additionally, you will refine your contemporary record-keeping techniques and strengthen your scientific writing for effective communication.
*Students must select one project in the physics pathway and must undertake the associated lecture module for this project: Space Physics; Astrophysical Data lab (Please find individual module descriptions below).
Explore the physics of semiconductors, superconductors and magnetic materials. You will learn how the properties of these materials arise from their microscopic structure and from interactions between atoms, electrons and phonons. You will gain a deeper understanding of the role of statistical concepts in understanding macroscopic systems and be able to solve selected model problems using advanced methods from condensed matter theory.
Cosmology treats the entire universe as a physical system. Investigate the evolution of the universe from the big bang, the cataclysmic explosion which started it all, through to its final fate in the distant future. Further areas of study include the dynamics of the universe as a whole, the initial singularity from which it originated, and the violent history of the early universe. You’ll also investigate the cosmic microwave background, the formation of structure (such as galaxies and galaxy clusters), cosmological horizons, dark matter and dark energy. You’ll consider the origin of matter, the age of the universe and the reason why is the sky is dark at night as you explore the limits of human knowledge and understanding.
Through a series of lectures, workshops, hands-on coursework and numerical simulations, gain command of advanced theoretical tools and mathematical methods for modelling and simulating many-body quantum systems. Specifically, you will learn the second quantisation and path integral methods of theoretical physics, supported by the mathematics of complex analysis. This enables you to apply basic concepts and techniques of field theory and its approximation methods. The workshops will provide a playground for hands-on use of these field theory techniques, culminating in an independent investigative simulation of a quantum system.
*Mandatory to be taken alongside Theoretical Physics Group Project module. Otherwise, optional.
Investigate the importance of conservation laws and discrete symmetries in particle interactions and experiments used to determine them. You will explore topics such as quark mixing, heavy-flavour physics, neutrino oscillations and particle interactions with matter. You will then use your knowledge of particle interactions with matter to understand the design of particle detectors and accelerators. Results and measurements from particle physics experiments will be used throughout the module to highlight the topics presented.
Dive into our School’s top research fields, semiconductor device physics and ultra-low temperature physics, with significance placed on condensed matter science and emerging quantum technologies.
You will explore spontaneous and stimulated photon emissions in LEDs and lasers, and the characteristics of superconductivity and superfluidity at low temperatures. Building on earlier laboratory experience, you will plan and undertake more complex experiments, improving your ability to collect and process challenging data and to relate your findings to important research and technologies. Research lab tours and expert supervision will introduce you to the links between the experiments and ongoing research. The skills you will develop are valuable in research, engineering and technical careers.
Study advanced concepts and formalisms in quantum mechanics as used in quantum information, quantum communication and quantum computing. Learn about cutting-edge ideas in quantum mechanics including qubits and the Bloch sphere, entanglement, and pure and mixed states. As you progress through this module, you will develop skills in linear algebra techniques including matrix algebra, Dirac notation and density matrices.
*Students undertaking the Physics Group Project module also take one of the associated lecture modules: Foundations of Quantum Technology or Relativity, Nuclear and Particle Physics.
Explore the topics of relativity, nuclear physics and particle physics and learn about the principles of special relativity, Lorentz transformations and four-vectors. You will use relativity to understand topics such as particle decays and the doppler effect. In nuclear physics, you will study properties of nuclei, radioactive decay, nuclear fission and fusion. In particle physics, you will learn about the Standard Model, particle interactions, the structure of matter and modern particle physics experiments. Gain an understanding of the fundamental building blocks of the universe.
*Students undertaking the Physics Group Project module also take one of the associated lecture modules: Foundations of Quantum Technology or Relativity, Nuclear and Particle Physics.
From the birth of our solar system to the exploration of planetary environments, delve into the fundamental physics governing our local cosmic neighbourhood. You’ll study the formation of planetary bodies, their surfaces, atmospheres, and their interactions with space. Core physics principles - mechanics, thermodynamics, and electromagnetism - are applied to real-world observations, helping you analyse solar system dynamics and solve key problems in planetary science. A major focus is the interaction between the solar wind and planetary magnetospheres, leading to fascinating space weather phenomena like auroras. By the end of this module, you’ll have a strong foundation in space physics, an appreciation for the complexities of planetary evolution, and the ability to apply physics-based techniques to both our solar system and the study of exoplanetary systems and beyond.
*Mandatory to be taken alongside Astrophysics Group Project module. Otherwise, optional.
Do you want to entertain and inspire children and the public in STEM? With an introduction to teaching as well as wider engagement opportunities, learn how to understand your audience and how to engage and enliven them. You will also learn how to balance this with educating them and presenting science in a way that’s appropriate to your audience. We include an introduction to pedagogy, how to inspire school pupils and how to use traditional and new media for science communication.
You will deliver an activity of your choosing to an audience. This could be a lesson at school, engaging with children at a large outreach event or delivering a public lecture. In addition, you will also reflect on your activity to discuss what you’ve learnt and what changes you would make. You can deliver this by either video, podcast or article.
This individual project forms the exciting core of Year 4. Working across both semesters, you will experience cutting-edge research and complete a major open-ended investigation. The projects we offer are diverse and updated every year in line with current research activities, making use of available facilities and datasets. They are taught through individual supervision and training seminars to further develop your research and communication skills. To start the project, you will research the area and prepare a literature review. From this foundation you will plan, manage and execute your own investigative work. Throughout the project, you will use and develop your abilities to synthesise technical information, keep a contemporary record of your activity, and conduct research in a safe and ethical manner. The project is excellent preparation for research at postgraduate level or in an industrial setting, whilst also developing transferable skills in communication and project work, highly desired by employers.
Learn how complex phenomena in condensed matter physics are applied to create useful solid-state devices and nanoscale structures. You will explore physical concepts related to quantum transport and states of matter in low-dimensional systems and employ appropriate theoretical tools to describe their electronic behaviour. By the end of this module, you will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the physical effects underpinning the characteristics of common nanoscale devices, including quantum dots and nanomechanical structures, and discuss methods used in their fabrication and characterisation.
Learn about quantum technology applications in quantum optics and in solid state systems. Develop an understanding of the physics governing the characteristics of laser light, the foundations of atom-light interactions and their quantum-optical applications and technologies. You will describe how solid-state phenomena, including superconductivity, are employed for quantum technologies. You will also learn about practical techniques needed to produce the low temperatures required by such technologies. Throughout this module, you will develop your skills in linear algebra techniques, perform calculations and solve problems related to quantum technologies.
Study the evolution of galaxies, from the early universe to the present, linking with stellar physics and the latest discoveries in observational cosmology across the electromagnetic spectrum. Explore how astrophysical plasmas characterise the environments of remote and local regions of space, including the plasma structures found in solar and planetary systems. As you advance through the module, you will gain insight of current research in these fields and the observations on which our understanding is based.
Dive into transformations and corresponding symmetries, group theory and its applications in particle physics, and the basics of the gauge-invariant field theories. You will use these topics to understand the properties of the quarks and leptons and their strong, electromagnetic and weak interactions. You will explore topics such as spontaneous symmetry breaking and the Higgs mechanism. This module will describe the foundations of the Standard Model of particle physics and its possible extensions.
We introduce you to Einstein's theory of General Relativity, which is our current understanding of gravity, exploring the relationship between Newtonian mechanics and relativity. In general relativity there is no long-range gravitational force, only a local response to the curvature of spacetime. You will study black holes, gravitational waves, and cosmological phenomena such as cosmic inflation and the big bang. Key topics include the Einstein field equations, gravitational redshift and lensing, orbital precession, and relativistic electromagnetism. In this module you will also explore advanced concepts such as Hawking radiation, black hole thermodynamics and traversable wormholes. By the end, you will have developed strong problem-solving skills and a solid grasp of relativistic principles, enabling you to perform calculations and understand the geometry of spacetime and intense gravity.
The analysis of large datasets using numerical and statistical method is a rapidly growing field used extensively in the modern world to predict trends, inform decisions and solve complex problems. Data science is used in both scientific research and across industries including finance, healthcare, engineering, and technology. In this module, you will be introduced to, implement and apply data analysis techniques to both problems in modern physics and real-world scenarios. You'll explore state-of-the-art computational and numerical methods used to evaluate data, including hypothesis testing, posteriors, sampling, likelihoods, machine learning and data fitting techniques. By the end of the module, you will have developed skills in data analysis and visualisation as a means of understanding and efficiently conveying high-level information.
Select a grouping to see the list of pathways available, alongside the core and optional modules you can take.
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