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Study physics at ANU

Physics ANU builds upon its world leading research to offer the best in physics education

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Exciting nuclei with strange shapes

Physics teaching and learning at anu.

Physics ANU houses one of the largest concentrations of physics-based research in Australia and boasts an international reputation for exceptional physics and engineering research and discovery. The Physics Education Centre (PEC) exploits that research strength and combines it with nationally award-winning teaching expertise to provide an outstanding physics learning and teaching environment. In particular, the School's innovative research culture, strong industry focus, supportive intellectual environment, world class facilities and enthusiastic experienced staff ensure that the ANU can offer a unique experience to both undergraduate and graduate physics students.

Our cutting edge physics research feeds our outstanding physics learning and teaching environment.

An honours degree at ANU gives you the opportunity to pursue a physics research topic of your choice.

Graduate coursework

Become an expert in the field by completing a Masters Degree at ANU.

Graduate research

A PhD or Masters at Physics ANU will put you at the forefront of physics research.

Summer scholarships

Get a taste of research at ANU under the guidance of our distinguished researchers.

Find out about the scholarships available to Physics students and ANU.

All ANU students and staff are encouraged to get involved with the ANU MakerSpace . Learn by doing!

• The best educators with global connections Studying Physics at ANU will connect you with the best educators in the country, a host of national facilities and a global research network.
• The ideal place to kickstart your research career We are the largest physics school in the country and so have the highest researcher to student ratio, with advanced degrees that will have you doing cutting-edge research programs at every stage of your education.
• Modern teaching methods Our goal is to provide an education as good as any University in the world. For example, we have redesigned our courses around the flipped classroom approach and have recently opened new teaching facilities with state-of-the-art studio facilities and break out areas.
• Physics and more Our research covers nearly every facet of physics and we have links throughout the University to a host of other research schools and colleges. We have even collaborated with the School of Music to design a new ergonomic saxophone stand!
• Multicultural Our students have come to us from over 30 countries – we look forward to welcoming you too.

Undergraduate Postgraduate coursework enquiries

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Deputy Director (Education)

ANU College of Science

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The Australian National University provides PhD students with a vibrant research community and outstanding program support .  When selecting a research program, an institution's reputation is everything. ANU is one of the world's leading universities, and the smart choice for your research program.

As a PhD student you will work with increased independence, under the direction of a supervisory panel of experts in the field. Your research will make an original and important contribution to human knowledge, research and development.

Program details

The major component of a research program is a substantial written work known as a thesis, which investigates a particular subject or issue. As a research student, you will work with increased independence, under the direction of an academic supervisor or a supervisory panel of academic staff.

A PhD will normally take you between 2-4 years to complete.

• 2 - 4 years full time
• Access to state-of-the-art facilities

Testimonials

Dr Matt Nurse

Meeting great people at ANU has also been a highlight. My supervisor and panel were absolute rock stars and gave me the confidence to chase my hunches. It's been great working with a super smart and dedicated cohort of PhD students investigating emerging challenges in science communication.  

Christer de Silva

My Master's at ANU included a rewarding placement at the Royal Institution of Australia, where I honed my science communication skills by assisting with COSMOS Magazine. Now, as a PhD researcher, I'm immersed in the ins and outs of my field. Working as a research assistant at the Responsible Innovation Lab has been a positive challenge that has extended my interests.

The Doctor of Philosophy is your gateway to an academic or research career in science. In addition to academia, PhD graduates work in diverse fields within government, education, industry and media.

World class facilities

Students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities and support, including labs, computational services and recreation and relaxation rooms.

Industry engagement

Industry engagement is one of the best ways for a PhD student to test their capabilities as a researcher, and to obtain transferable and professional skills.

Sample research projects

We have a wide range of potential science and mathematical research projects, ranging from short-term projects to three-year PhD projects. 

Learning experience

The unexpected poetry of PhD acknowledgements

Not many people will read your PhD thesis, but if you completed your doctoral research at the Australian National University College of Science, then Tabitha Carvan has probably read one small part of it.

What she found is a kind of poetry in the science.

Painting the universe red

Raghda Abdel Khaleq spends a lot of time contemplating the unknown sector of our universe. And not just for her PhD research in nuclear physics.

Life as an Industry PhD candidate: Rosie Georgelin

When athletic clothing retailer Lululemon recently unveiled its first jacket made from recycled polyester, The Australian National University (ANU) Industry PhD student Rosie Georgelin felt a sense of pride and excitement.

Fees & scholarships

Scholarships.

Whether you are looking for financial support to start your studies at ANU or help to move away from home for the first time, we have scholarship opportunities for you and your situation.

• How to apply
• International

Understand the how to apply steps

Visit the domestic postgraduate research applications page to prepare for your application to ANU.

Finding an academic supervisor

Prospective research students first need to identify a research project and find an academic supervisor.

Review the  fields of research  we offer and contact the academic convenor for advice about potential projects, supervisors, and the pre-application process. The  ANU Researchers  website is also a good place to start looking for a supervisor.

Email your academic supervisor directly to enquire about projects and supervision. Your email should outline the reason(s) why you are attracted to their field of research, the type of research you would like to pursue and a summary of your academic qualifications and research experience. You may also submit a short research proposal, however, this is not mandatory at this point.

The academic supervisor may contact you to discuss your research proposal and possibly other projects, or they may forward your email to other staff in the research school / centre.

Once an academic supervisor has been confirmed to support your application you may proceed to step three.

If you are not sure which area of research or supervisor matches your interest please complete an  expression of interest  and we will get in contact with you. Do not proceed to next step until advised.

Finding available scholarships

ANU Colleges and individual research schools offer a number of  scholarships  that are awarded on a merit basis. You can also talk to your academic supervisor about other sources of funding you might access to assist with living expenses and tuition fees.

Visit the international postgraduate research applications page to prepare for your application to ANU.

Need more information?

Send us an enquiry and we'll get back to you within 48 hours

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Research School of Astronomy & Astrophysics ANU College of Science

• Many of our graduating students have been awarded prestigious fellowships including Fulbright, Zonta, Hubble, CfA, Carnegie, ESO, Magellan, CITA, Oort, and Jansky Fellowships.

The PhD program provides excellent training for a career in many fields involving critical thinking, problem solving skills, data analysis, and computing. Foremost, it is a preparation for research work in the discipline of astronomy itself. Many of the program's graduates proceed to postdoctoral positions (usually overseas), which broadens their range of research experience. This also forms the basis for obtaining a more permanent position, either at an observatory where the work is entirely research based, or at a University with the traditional mix of research and teaching responsibilities.

The technological expertise acquired in the program is very marketable in other careers as well. A training in image processing, in instrument and computer applications, and in high-level problem solving, is widely applicable and highly valued in business and industry.  Graduates of the program  are found in meteorology, computer management, the chemical industry, business consultancy, banking and finance, and secondary school teaching.

Learning experience

RSAA Policy on Supervision, Supervising Load, and Student Communication

Learn about ANU RSAA’s supervision policies ensuring effective communication and manageable loads for supervisors. Our commitment to providing a supportive environment enhances PhD student success.

Fees & scholarships

Please visit the Programs and Courses website for information about fees.

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The ANU Centre for Gravitational Astrophysics is founded to build a world-leading role for Australia in the science and technology of gravitational wave sources.

The Centre for Gravitational Astrophysics research program is broadly divided into four research streams.

News & Events

Find out what's happening at the Centre for Gravitational Astrophysics.

CGA Applied Metrology Lab invention aims to revolutionise the future of the autonomous vehicle industry »

CGA Winter Research Program »

It’s written in the stars: How maths can unveil the wonders of the universe »

ANU and UWA launch a revolution in science education »

Updated:   31 July 2023 / Responsible Officer:   Science Web / Page Contact:   Science Web

Mathematical Sciences Institute ANU College of Science

Mathematical physics

The Mathematics Physics research program spans the ANU College of Science, with several members having joint appointments with the Department of Theoretical Physics in RSPE. The program is active in studying fundamental problems across a broad spectrum of Mathematical Physics.

The Mathematics Physics research program spans the ANU College of Science, with several members having joint appointments with the  Department of Theoretical Physics  in RSPE. The program is active in studying fundamental problems across a broad spectrum of Mathematical Physics, such as:

• String Theory
• Conformal Field Theory
• Integrable Models in Statistical Mechanics and Quantum Field Theory
• Condensed Matter Theory

using and developing techniques from:

• Algebra (including Algebraic Topology and Algebraic Geometry)
• Representation Theory
• Differential Geometry

Exterior Differential Systems and Hyperbolic PDE

Student intake

Open for Summer scholar students

• Peter Vassiliou

Geometric Control Theory

Geometry of Gauge fields

This project is to explore various new topological invariants using topological field theory and dualities arising from gauge theory and string theory

Open for Honours, Masters, PhD students

Geometry of gerbes & D-branes

This project would lay down some of mathematical ground for string theory.

Lindbladians and related master equations in quantum mechanics

Open for students

Murray Batchelor

Mathematical aspects of conformal field theory.

operator theoretic aspects of quantum field theory computational problems in vector-valued modular forms tensor categories and functorial conformal field theories

Open for Honours, Masters, PhD, Summer scholar students

James Tener

Collaborator.

Geoffrey B. Campbell

Long Term Campus Visitor

Rodney Baxter

Emeritus Professor

Rowena Ball

Peter Bouwknegt

Honorary Professor

Brett Parker

Senior Lecturer MSI Colloquium Organiser

Christopher Raymond

Postdoctoral Fellow

Senior Lecturer

Associate Professor HDR Convenor

Remy Adderton

Timothy bourke, thalia greinke, dongchang liu, rongping tang, matthew thomas.

Rodney Baxter awarded prestigious Henri Poincare Prize

Rodney Baxter has been awarded the 2021 Henri Poincare Prize at the XX International Congress on Mathematical Physics in Geneva Aug 2-7.

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ANU PhD Scholarship

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About this scholarship

This is a stipend scholarship offered by ANU Colleges to Higher Degree by Research candidates. It is normal for recipients to undertake study on a full-time basis, however, in accordance with strict criteria, the scholarship can be awarded for part-time study for Domestic candidates only. International scholars must undertake study on a full-time basis.

SCHOLARSHIP TYPE

Payments made fortnightly

Payments made for 3.5 years

Student types

Student levels

Selection bases

Ongoing eligibility

Extension duration

Field of study

Eligibility.

These scholarships are available to potential and current students who:

• are domestic or international students; and
• have applied for admission to a PhD or Professional Doctorate by Research program; and
• have a Bachelor degree with first-class honours (some Colleges may consider students with upper second-class honours), or a Master degree with a research component or equivalent from a recognised university.

Additional information

How to apply, reference documents, further information.

• Scholarship for 3.5 years
• Travel and removal allowances for students relocating to Canberra to commence their research program
• Thesis allowance
• Dependant Child allowance (International students only)
• Paid medical and parental leave

No application is required specifically for this scholarship as all eligible candidates will be considered. Applications must be complete at the time of submission, including all supporting documentation and referee reports, in order to be considered in the scholarship ranking process.

Application Deadline

In order to be considered for an ANU PhD scholarship, in the main round of scholarship offers, applicants are required to apply for admission by the deadlines below. Once you have applied for the program, all eligible applicants will be automatically considered for the ANU PhD scholarship

Deadlines for scholarship rounds

• ANU PhD Scholarship - Conditions of Award 130a/2024 (PDF, 216.91 KB)
• Previous ANU PhD Scholarship - Conditions of Award 187a/2023 (PDF, 188.69 KB)

Use contact details to request an alternative file format.

Applicants are also strongly encouraged to make contact with the relevant Graduate Studies Convener or a prospective supervisor, prior to lodging an application, to discuss the proposed research topic and related matters.

Contact us:

Research School of Earth Sciences ANU College of Science

The Geophysics research area has broad interests ranging from elucidating Earth structures from the crust to the core and dynamical processes, both within its interior and at its surface, to studies of the physical mechanisms of earthquakes and the mechanical behaviour of rocks.

Research includes:

• Seismology and Mathematical Geophysics
• Geodynamics and Tectonics
• Rock/mineral physics

Seismology and Mathematical Geophysics covers a range of activities designed to exploit the favourable location of Australia relative to the world's earthquake belts. This is reflected in extensive studies using deployments of portable instrumentation to probe the structure of the Australian continent and the mantle beneath, and study seismic hazards across Australasia. Seismological research extends to the entire Australian plate, including the Southern Ocean and Antarctica. Furthermore, research in global observational and theoretical seismology involves developing new methods for imaging various parts of the Earth's interior, such as the lowermost mantle and core. Exciting topics include exploring large volumes of passive seismic data recorded by arrays to improve our knowledge about the Earth's interior and the interactions of the solid earth with the oceans, cryosphere and atmosphere. We also conduct research in planetary seismology using existing data and the data that will be available from future missions. Another strength of the area is data inference, both in theoretical advances and applications to studies of Earth structure and earthquakes.

Research in geodynamics focuses upon developing state-of-the-art tools that simulate mantle and lithosphere dynamics and their integration with a diverse range of observational datasets. This allows us to significantly enhance our understanding of mantle and lithosphere dynamics and their signature at the surface across a range of spatial and temporal scales.

Research in rock physics employs novel equipment in laboratory studies and studies of mechanical behaviour ranging widely from time-resolved slip on synthetic faults to seismic-frequency studies of wave speeds and attenuation.

We operate the Warramunga Seismic and Infrasound Research Station (WRA) near Tennant Creek, Northern Territory. The seismic and infrasound arrays are primary stations in the International Monitoring System for the  Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) . The arrays were upgraded to meet Treaty standards in 2000. Data are sent by satellite link to the  International Data Centre  in Vienna, and the  National Data Centre  at  Geoscience Australia  in Canberra. The broad-band station CAN at Mt Stromlo is operated in association with the French  GEOSCOPE  network and a broad-band borehole instrument (WRAB) is supported at the Warramunga Array for the  IRIS - IDA  network as a contribution to global seismology.

We operate the FDSN recognised data centre,  AusPass , which is a service dedicated to the acquisition, management, and distribution of passive seismological data in Australia. AusPass is an initiative supported with funding from  AuScope  and the  Australian National University  to provide access to broadband passive seismic data collected in Australia since 1997. To facilitate knowledge discovery and innovation, AusPass adopts and supports  FAIR  data principles.

The area hosts the seismological component of the National Research Facility for Earth Sounding  (ANSIR) , which operates portable instrumentation for approved projects. The area also has a programme of  ultra-low power seismic recorder  development.

It also has access to extensive computational facilities through the in-house  Terrawulf cluster  and the  National Computational Infrastructure (NCI) .

Subscribe to our mailing list to receive news and updates related to the Cliamate & Geoscience research area.

List of our academic and professional staff.

Learn more about our research projects.

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Get to the Core of Conducting Research in Physics with a Cutting-edge Ph. D. in Physics at Shiv Nadar IoE

Blog / September 06, 2024

A Doctorate of Philosophy or Ph. D. in Physics course involves the study of laws of nature and matter. It is generally a three-year course, but the course duration may vary from university to university. Being a multidisciplinary field, the knowledge acquired while pursuing a Ph. D. in Physics can be used in other areas like Nuclear Sciences, Electronics, Astronomy, etc. Additionally, Ph. D. Physics syllabus includes Biophysics, Kinetics, Nanomaterials, Robotics, Semiconductors, Advanced Thermodynamics, Condensed Matter Physics, Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Mechanics, Photonics, Ferromagnetic Materials, and Nuclear Physics.

Pursuing a Ph. D. in Physics gives you valuable hands-on experience that you can deploy in diverse careers. In acquiring a Ph. D. in Physics degree, students get a finer understanding of the world around them and the materials that float within it. Furthermore, with the Ph. D. Physics syllabus, students are able to aid engineers and product developers with design and modification with their extensive knowledge of kinetics and applied physics. To assist you in deciding if a Ph. D. in Physics is the optimal choice for you, here are a few career paths after completing the Ph. D. in Physics:

• Physicists and Astronomers

Physicists and astronomers work to develop the latest scientific theories and create models to better explain articles that are occurring within the world. These professionals work intimately with engineers and product designers to invent scientific equipment and the software required to operate it. Furthermore, through complex mathematical equations, these professionals discover the existence of new planets and solar systems and identify advanced material properties.

• Natural Sciences Managers

Natural sciences managers spend their days working with senior-level executives to formulate advanced strategies and goals for future and current research. They help hire and evaluate fellow representatives and review their research to ensure that it is accurate. Additionally, they make proposals for funding projects and research as well as present their findings to the authorities.

• Biochemists and Biophysicists

Biochemists and biophysicists conduct tests to determine the potential effects of specific substances on biological processes and present these findings to their colleagues, fellow scientists, and engineers.

• Postsecondary Physics Teachers

Postsecondary physics teachers utilize their educational experience to guide their students on the right path when it comes to making valuable decisions about their educational future. At the college level, they create courses that will foster an extensive understanding of the subject and prepare students for the real world. Additionally, they keep track of their students' progress and assist them in achieving their educational goals.

Get a Boost in Your Career with a Ph. D. in Physics at Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence (Deemed to be a University)

The Department of Physics in the School of Natural Sciences at Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence (Deemed to be a University) is an active and expanding research center with focus on the areas of experimental and theoretical Condensed Matter Physics, Nanotechnology, and development of novel materials for energy and environmental applications, and in experimental and theoretical particle physics.

The Department of Physics imparts a vibrant and rigorous doctoral program drawing on its various strengths:

• It is a part of the School of Natural Sciences which encourages and facilitates multidisciplinary research activities.
• Many of the faculty members of the university have worked in some of the leading international research institutes. Some of them are part of huge international research collaborations.
• The Department encourages collaborative research with industry. Some faculty members are exploring joint research programs with reputed technological companies.

For gaining admission to the Ph. D. in Physics, individuals should have a master's degree in science or engineering with a minimum of 60% aggregate marks (first class) or an equivalent grade point. For an aspirant having a four-year B. S. or B. Tech. or an M. Tech. Degree in engineering, the norm may be relaxed if they can demonstrate the required mastery of the fundamentals through written tests, interviews, etc.

Moreover, many of the research projects at the School of Natural Sciences at Shiv Nadar IoE are interdisciplinary in nature, involving collaborations within the department and across various departments in the School of Natural Sciences, as well as other schools and research centers of the university to impart leading-edge knowledge and understanding of the area.

Ph. D. in Physics - Launch Your Career with the Highest Degree in Physics

Ph. D. in Physics graduates are highly valued by employers and universities worldwide. If you are considering a research career, a Ph. D. in Physics is an excellent qualification. The ability to analyze problems, proficiency in planning a project, and expertise in communicating complex ideas are highly valued by employers looking for leadership, numeracy, initiative, and an ability to plan and execute strategically. Therefore, a Ph. D. in Physics degree is highly rewarding in this dynamic world.

• Programs and Courses

• Specialisations

Physics Honours

A specialisation offered by the ANU College of Science

• Total units 48 Units
• Areas of interest Astronomy and Astrophysics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics
• Specialisation code PHYS-HSPC
• Academic career Undergraduate
• Academic Contact Prof Ilya Shadrivov
• Introduction

Learning Outcomes

Other information, admission requirements, cognate disciplines, requirements, relevant degrees.

The ANU Physics Honours program provides an opportunity for high achieving students to undertake a substantial program of original research, as well as studying advanced Physics coursework. The research project may be undertaken in any relevant area of the University. Projects are individually supervised by an academic staff member, usually embedded within a larger research group and/or Department. Research projects are available in theoretical and experimental Physics across a wide range of Physics disciplines (For an up to date list see our project website physics.anu.edu.au/projects ). Honours in Physics prepares students for careers in a wide range of occupations, and sufficiently high marks qualify the student for entry into a PhD program.

Master advanced skills and concepts in Physics.

• Systematically evaluate relevant theory and concepts, relate these to appropriate methodologies and evidence, and draw appropriate conclusions.
• Make a systematic and critical review of appropriate and relevant information sources.
• Develop the ability to apply experimental techniques and methods to collect original research data in the field of study. In the case of theoretical research, learn the application of relevant advanced mathematical concepts and techniques.

Analyse and interpret original science research data with statistical or other evaluative processes where appropriate.

• Plan, consult and engage in an independent and sustained critical investigation of a chosen research topic to generate new knowledge in the chosen area of physics.

Effectively and compellingly communicate scientific material to a variety of audiences.

Students can enrol in 4000 level coded courses from other disciplines with the approval of the PHYS-HSPC Honours Convener and the Course Convener of the relevant course.

Students can also enrol in 6000- or 8000-level courses with the approval of the Honours Convener. In the Research School of Physics, this might include enrolment one of the courses listed below, if the 3000 level equivalent has not been completed.

PHYS6101 - Advanced Quantum Mechanics (6 units)

PHYS6102 - Advanced Electromagnetism (6 units)

PHYS6103 - Advanced Statistical Mechanics (6 units)

PHYS6500 - Optical Physics (6 units)

PHYS6105 - Physics of Matter (6 units)

PHYS8302 - Quantum Field Theory I (6 units)

For more information on the Honours year in Science, please visit:

http://science.anu.edu.au/study/bachelor-degrees/honours-year

For more information on how to apply for Honours in Science include deadlines, please visit:

http://science.anu.edu.au/study/how-apply/honours-year-application

• Bachelor of Biotechnology (Honours) (HBIOT)
• Bachelor of Environment and Sustainability (Honours) (HENSU)
• Bachelor of Genetics (Honours) (HGENE)
• Bachelor of Mathematical Sciences (Honours) (HMASC)
• Bachelor of Medical Science (Honours) (HMEDS)
• Bachelor of Philosophy (Honours) - Science (APHSC)
• Bachelor of Science (Advanced) (Honours) (ASCAD)
• Bachelor of Science (Honours) (HSC)

Satisfaction of the admission requirements described in the relevant honours plan with at least: 

• a major in Physics
• six courses in the subject area of Physics or Mathematics with a weighted average mark equivalent to an ANU 70 per cent calculated from the 36 units (i.e. 0.75 EFTSL) , excluding 1000-level courses (i.e. introductory undergraduate courses)
• the approval of an identified supervisor for the research project/thesis course

This Honours specialisation requires the completion of 48 units, which must consist of:

30 units from completion of the Honours Reseach Project:

PHYS4110 - Honours Research Project (30 units) which must be taken twice over consecutive semesters (6+24 or 24+6 depending on start term)

18 units from completion of courses from the following list:

PHYS4301 - Applied Mathematical Methods in Physics (6 units)

PHYS4303 - Non linear Physics (6 units)

PHYS4304 - Quantum Scattering (6 units)

HONS4602 Final Honours Grade will be used to calculate the class of Honours and the mark. It will be calculated using the formula: S (mark x units) / S units, giving NCN and WN a nominal mark of zero

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