Why choose Bristol?
by Professor Walther Schwarzacher, Director of the Graduate School
If you are planning to embark on a postgraduate research degree in physics, deciding where to do it is without doubt one of the most important decisions you will have to make. In choosing to come to the , you can be assured of a stimulating, friendly environment in which to pursue cutting-edge research in one of several internationally leading research groups in an historic, vibrant civic setting.
The is one of the leading physics institutes in the United Kingdom with a growing international reputation in a wide range of research areas, including astrophysics, correlated electron systems, micro- and nanostructural materials, nanophysics and soft matter, particle physics, quantum photonics and theoretical physics. It is part of the which RAE2008, the UK national audit of research quality, confirmed as one of the UK's leading centres of research excellence.
The School of Physics, which was rated at the top end of the RAE scale, is undergoing a multi-million pound investment programme designed to create a smart state-of-the-art for both students and staff alike. Much of the infrastructure is being upgraded, and new facilities are being constructed, including a fully equipped clean room and a new materials laboratory. These exciting developments are in addition to several other major projects recently completed within the Physics building: a £7M high performance computing centre, an e-Science access grid and a new £12M centre for Nanoscience and Quantum Information all point to the School's clear vision to build on its place at the forefront of scientific advances across the discipline.
The Graduate School is an integral part of Physics at Bristol, providing students with a wide range of tailored training in both academic and transferable skills. The School also co-ordinates an annual postgraduate conference in addition to several popular away days for the individual research groups. Each research group holds regular seminars with distinguished external speakers. Almost all the research activity involves national or international collaboration, including industrial partners, and the School often hosts conferences or meetings, bringing in leading scientists from around the world.
The School takes in around 20-25 new PhD students per year and welcomes applications at any time. Funding for UK and EU students is currently available through Research Council studentships. The School also welcomes applications from non EU students.
Further information can be found across the Science and Physics websites. If you are interested in applying, please get in touch with either or our .