Postgraduate research degrees

We offer several world-leading research opportunities to choose from, where you will work with world-leading academics and be part of a thriving postgraduate community. Follow the links below to find out more and the application route:

  • Physics and Astronomy PhD
    Summary information on opportunities in the various research areas. Our research portfolio is wide-ranging, and covers three principal themes: Particle and Nuclear Physics; Quantum Matter and Nanoscale Science; and Astronomy.
  • Translational Quantum Technology PhD
    Quantum technology has been selected by the UK Government as a key area of innovation, moving science into real-world applications.
  • Topological Science PhD
    The Centre for Doctoral Training in Topological Design draws on expert researchers from across the Sciences and Engineering, who use topological principles to make new discoveries and design new materials and devices with unusual mechanical, optical, electronic and magnetic properties.

PhD study at Birmingham

Research within the School is based on a group structure and the heads of groups meet regularly with the Head of School to discuss research policy.

All research groups hold regular seminars with many distinguished external speakers. Almost all the research activity involves national or international collaboration, including industrial partners, and the School often hosts conferences or meetings on various research topics, bringing in leading scientists from around the world.

Training of PhD students is organised by the groups, within the framework of the Graduate Research School.

Recruitment of PhD students is carried out by individual research groups, each of which has a contact person. If you are interested in more than one activity, you should indicate this on your application form. 

Details of postgraduate study at Birmingham can be found in our prospectus.

The Director of Graduate Studies for PhD students is Professor Andreas Freise.