Join our rich and vibrant community of researchers. Together we’re understanding the physics behind the fabric of the Universe and how it affects the world we observe.
We are ranked in the top 5 physics and astronomy departments in the Russell Group for our research output. Our world-leading status has been confirmed in the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021.
You will be supported by a supervisor who'll help you shape your research topic. You'll also join one of our research groups. Being a member of a research group means that interested people are always on hand to hear your ideas, discuss your results and offer help and encouragement.
You'll be able to attend postgraduate lecture courses, classes and research seminars to broaden your knowledge. There will also be opportunities to attend short courses or summer schools, such as Institute of Physics workshops and NATO Advanced Study Institutes. These bring together experts to give lectures and lead discussions.
We'll encourage you to travel for conferences and research collaborations at other large laboratories and world-class observatories, such as CERN and The European Southern Observatory in Chile.
As a newly qualified PhD in Physics, you'll have many career options open to you. Our students head into non-scientific careers, or take up science-based appointments in the UK. Others go one to postdoctoral research, often in the United States, Europe or, increasingly, Japan.
We invite PhD applications to study within the following research areas:
The University of Southampton is pleased to announce that PGR students from EU and Horizon associated countries joining us in 2026-27 will pay the same as UK PGRs for their PhD.
You can either apply for a structured studentship or propose your own PhD idea.
Structured studentships are advertised PhD projects with a title, supervisor, remit and funding already in place. These projects have been set up through collaborations with industry, external partners or they may have been provided through one of several Centres for Doctoral Training which we take part in.
Taking one of our structured studentships will give you access to additional training, conferences and secondments.
This PhD project focuses on improving aircraft noise prediction for emerging technologies at early design stages. It involves developing whole-aircraft noise models, incorporating operational factors and fleet-level scenarios. The research supports Rolls-Royce’s noise prediction systems and informs certification standards and airport noise policies.
Quantum materials such as superconducting magic-angle twisted bilayer graphene exhibit exceptional sensitivity to external stimuli, offering a unique platform for quantum sensing. This project develops 2D material-based membrane sensors for single-photon detection and noise spectroscopy, integrating nanoelectromechanical and quantum photonic functionalities into a unified, energy-efficient platform for next-generation quantum technologies.
This project develops chalcogenide glass materials for optical and electronic applications using cleanroom fabrication and AI-driven simulations. It aims to replace rare elements with earth-abundant alternatives, combining experimental and computational methods to create advanced materials with broad industrial potential and train researchers in cutting-edge, transferable skills.
This PhD applies AI to inverse design, a method that works backwards from desired performance to generate efficient photonic circuits. You'll develop algorithms that intelligently explore vast design spaces, enabling compact, manufacturable light-based chips.
The NExT Institute proposes a project on the `HL-LHC upgrade of the CMS hardware trigger and searches for new physics’. The Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) experiment will upgrade its Level 1 trigger system for High Luminosity Large Hadron Collider (HL-LHC) operation.
The project develops intelligent nanorobots for autonomous control and adaptive behaviour in liquid nanoscale environments, exploring algorithms for simulation, control, and prediction with applications in drug delivery, diagnostics, and nano-manipulation.
This project aims to find experimental ways to couple nuclear spin dynamics to the centre of mass motion/oscillation of optically trapped particles. This will allow to use the quantum features of the spins to control and prepare quantum states of motion, such as macroscopic Schrödinger cat states.
The project will explore the design and fabrication of metasurface-based optical components using advanced full-wafer fabrication tools available in the University of Southampton cleanrooms and use advanced nanophotonics laboratories for testing.
This project aims to recalibrate early universe measurements and deliver precise and accurate supermassive black hole (SMBH) masses using the new GRAVITY+ measurements.
Do you want to shape the future of quieter, more sustainable aviation? This PhD develops efficient computational methods to simulate aeroengine noise, combining fluid dynamics, acoustics, and high-performance computing to create faster, more accurate tools that help reduce environmental impact.
This PhD project will develop reliable and cost-effective on-chip quantum light sources from foundry-compatible 2D materials. Using advanced nanofabrication and spectroscopy, the research will control strain, spin injection, and twist angles to create electrically driven, high-purity entangled single-photon emitter arrays that are crucial for photonic quantum information processing technologies.
This PhD project develops next-generation multicore fibre amplifiers for sustainable submarine networks. The research combines simulation and experiment to create energy-efficient, high-capacity amplification technologies that reduce power consumption, cost per bit, and enhance future global communication infrastructure.
This project engineers the atomic-scale microstructure of Josephson junctions—optimising grain orientation, stress, and interfaces—for longer-lived, reproducible qubits. Students will combine advanced thin-film growth, microscopy, and cryogenic testing to engineer “perfect” quantum hardware.
This PhD project develops ultra-low power, DVS-free computer vision hardware by creating event-based chips using nanofabrication. The work spans chip building, signal encoding, and real-world system demonstration, aiming to replace costly DVS cameras and enable fast, efficient AI image processing with conventional cameras. Techniques include lithography, circuit simulation, and FPGA implementation.
Perovskite quantum dots show great potential for tunable light emitters. They are also promising candidates for single-photon emitters, which are key building blocks for quantum communication networks. This project will study the fundamental photophysics behind photon emission of perovskite semiconductor nanoparticles and develop new platforms for quantum technologies.
Artificial intelligence demands faster, more efficient hardware. This PhD project addresses the energy and latency bottlenecks of modern computing hardware by bringing memory and computation together. Join us in developing neuromorphic devices using foundry-compatible ferroelectric diodes with two-dimensional materials for future computing hardware.
Aviation is entering a transformative era defined by emerging propulsion technologies, intelligence, and innovations such as quantum technologies. If you are driven to create high-resolution sensing technologies that enable smarter, data-informed decision-making in aviation, this project offers an opportunity to contribute to the next generation of intelligent aerospace systems.
Hollow core anti-resonant fibres (ARFs) enable strong light-matter interaction through functional material deposition. This PhD project advances composite material ARF (CM-ARF) technology using 2D materials and chalcogenides for photonic applications, combining cleanroom fabrication, device characterization, and simulations—ideal for candidates with physics, materials, or engineering backgrounds.
This project aims to explore the turbulent atmosphere of Jupiter using cutting-edge 3D climate simulations. It combines high-performance computing, advanced modelling, and international collaboration to uncover the mechanisms behind giant storms, multiple jets, and exotic weather.
Acoustic security is rapidly emerging at the intersection of cybersecurity, privacy, cyber physical systems, and acoustical physics. While machine learning has produced notable results, this project goes further—advancing both attacks and defenses through new mathematical approaches and deeper insights from acoustics.
This project seeks to develop a simple, low-cost laser materials processing procedure to fabricate high quality polysilicon photonic platforms that will ease issues associated with optoelectronic integration.
The future Quantum Internet requires efficient devices that store and recall arbitrary quantum states of light. These devices, known as quantum memories, can synchronise entanglement operations between distant locations. This project focuses on the development of novel quantum memory protocols within an integrated solid-state device.
Are you excited by cutting-edge optics, photonics, and the chance to help develop revolutionary new technology? This PhD project explores how to combine two transformative technologies – Hollow-Core Fibres (HCFs) and Photonic Integrated Circuits (PICs) to build a revolutionary new photonics platform and unlock new possibilities in science and engineering.
This project will develop a multi-scale surrogate modeling framework to optimize passive surface textures (like dimples) for maximum fluid drag reduction. By enabling efficient shape optimization and identifying critical flow parameters, this research seeks to resolve conflicting results and advance the theoretical understanding and practical application of cost-effective flow control in transportation.
Revolutionising the semiconductor industry with next generation 2D materials and devices.Moore’s Law is currently being challenged with Nvidia CEO recently claiming it is over. The scaling of transistors cannot continue due to physical limitations of silicon posing a threat to the sustainable evolution of new technologies.
In the world of Quantum Technology every photon is precious. This project will create new ultra-low-loss optical components that will lead to advanced quantum memories, switchable delays, and the creation of large, entangled quantum states.
Explore advanced material platforms for UV-VIS photonic integrated circuits. This project will develop low-loss waveguides using wide band-gap materials, enabling breakthroughs in biomedical sensing, environmental monitoring, and compact light engines for high-resolution displays.
Novel Micro/Nano-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS/NEMS) switches will be developed to significantly reduce overall power consumption of integrated quantum circuits. The MEMS/NEMS switches will be optimised for low temperature operation and will be integrated with existing quantum circuits to evaluate the energy efficiency of the systems.
This project focuses on designing and fabricating novel photonic computing devices using chalcogenide glass materials such as sulfur (S), selenium (Se) and tellurium (Te). These materials enable the creation of micro and nanoscale structures known as meta-optics, that precisely control light over a broad spectral range.
This PhD project will explore gust–wing interactions in vertical axis wind turbines (VAWTs). Integrating computational fluid dynamics, data-driven modelling, and experiments on a custom-built VAWT rig, you will examine how gusts influence blade aerodynamics in curvilinear flows and develop predictive tools to mitigate their adverse effects.
A novel nano-opto-electro-mechanical (NOEM) tunable SiC entangled photon source will be developed for future on-chip quantum photonic circuits technology. Design optimisation, device fabrication and single photon measurements are planned to prove the working principle and tunability of the device.
Join a PhD at the University of Southampton to build optoelectronic neural-networks and hardware for neuromorphic computing. You’ll design, fabricate and test III–V-on-silicon photonic circuits for AI inference and ultra-fast data-links. Learn cleanroom, simulation and characterisation skills in a supportive, world-leading silicon photonics group with industry and international collaborators.
Spin-based quantum sensing converts tiny quantum signals into detectable responses by aligning microscopic spins, for example in diamond nitrogen-vacancy centres. Can this alignment be exploited to amplify responses in other systems? This project addresses that question—theoretically and experimentally—via novel transfer protocols utilising periodic control fields and Floquet-engineering methods.
Nonlinear parametric photonics creates an interface between light and the atoms/ions and detectors used in quantum systems. This project combines novel fabrication approaches for nonlinear waveguides with established commercial materials to expand their operation into the ultra-violet and mid-infrared wavelength regions for use in practical quantum systems.
The objective of this PhD project is to develop an on-chip entangled photon source that can be integrated within a quantum cryptography system to enable ultimate security of digital communication based on the laws of quantum physics.
A research project within the Doctoral Centre for Advanced Electrical Power Engineering will consider a complex set of plasma phenomena and physical processes taking place during contact opening in DC switches as well as an optimisation of the devices design to extend its applicability for higher currents and voltages.
Join our dynamic research team to explore cutting-edge microscale optical resonator designs for quantum technologies. This PhD will combine photonics, quantum physics, and computational modelling to design devices that enhance the interaction between matter and light on the quantum level to unlock new capabilities in quantum computing, communication, and sensing.
This project repurposes photonic fibre technologies—central to global telecoms—for renewable energy applications, including solar generation and low-cost storage. Combining cleanroom fabrication, optical characterization, and simulation, it supports net-zero goals through scalable photonic platforms, guided by a multidisciplinary team in photonics, manufacturing, and decarbonisation.
Dive into the mysterious world of polarization in antiresonant hollow core fibres, where conventional wisdom is turned on its head, and unexpected phenomena emerge every day. Through your insights and innovation, you will shape the future of this cutting-edge technology from data centres, to high-power lasers, to space systems.
Optical fibres can transport telecom signals over long distances. However, qubits or other quantum states such as multiple-entangled-photos are often generated at wavelengths where current optical fibres are unsuitable. There is an emerging class of new optical fibres pioneered in Southampton that could revolutionize transport of quantum signals and states.
This project explores the emerging field of Quantum Computational Fluid Dynamics (QCFD), combining quantum computing and CFD to simulate nonlinear systems such as turbulence and shockwaves. You will be working and implementing quantum variational algorithms in quantum computers that bridge fundamental physics with quantum algorithmic innovation for next-generation fluid simulation.
The future Quantum Internet requires coherent transfer of quantum states between disparate platforms. This project develops an alkali-atom-based quantum frequency converter to link trapped-ion quantum processors with telecommunication-wavelength networks. Enabling efficient interfacing between ions and long-distance fiber links is a critical step toward scalable, distributed quantum systems.
This project aims to interrogate one of the most pressing problems of modern physics, can we describe gravity with quantum mechanics? A thought experiment wherein a test mass in superposition may or may not produce a superimposed gravitational field was proposed and this studentship will contribute to its realisation.
This project will advance levitated optomechanical technology, specifically a levitated gradiometer, through early-stage development for autonomous underwater vehicles. You will contribute to the design, modelling, and experimental realisation of a prototype levitated gradiometer comprising two (or four) levitated optomechanical sensors stabilised by an optical interferometer for common-mode noise rejection.
Quantum physics and artificial intelligence are converging to redefine how light–matter systems are explored and engineered. This project will develop Quantum Reservoir Computing as a new theoretical and computational framework, exploiting the dynamics of quantum systems to achieve efficient learning, prediction, and inverse design of photonic and quantum materials.
The aim of the project is to develop a novel platform technology for quantum reservoir computing, a promising approach for quantum neural networks where quantum information can be used as data in machine learning algorithms.
This project develops a gyroscope using a levitated nanodiamond with nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers. These systems enable coupling between the mechanical angular momentum of a levitated nanoparticle and its internal electronic spins, opening pathways for quantum control and precision sensing.
The main challenge in the adoption of quantum computing is the gap between algorithmic requirements and current quantum hardware. In this project, you will codevelop novel qubit efficient quantum approaches and techniques that can be used to solve optimization problems and apply them to logistics, pharma, transport, or manufacturing industries.
When gas flows from a coaxial nozzle surrounded by a liquid, it forms reproducible liquid shells useful in industries needing hollow spheres, such as pharmaceuticals and 3D printing. This project aims to understand and optimize production rates, reproducibility based on nozzle design and operating parameters.
This PhD project focuses on developing silicon photonic sensors that can detect early biomarkers of sepsis in children - quickly, accurately, and at the point of care.
The project will focus on developing a new, adaptive meta-optical platform, combining micro-structured silicon with the tuneable layer made of liquid crystals for effective manipulation of near- and mid-infrared beams.
Recent discoveries of exotic forms of light, structured in space and in time, promise novel ways of transferring information, delivering energy, and even manipulating matter. The project will focus on the generation, light-matter interactions, and applications of spatiotemporally structured electromagnetic waves.
This project tackles one of the biggest questions in astrophysics: the nature of dark energy. Using new datasets from the Rubin Observatory’s LSST and the TiDES survey, you will analyse tens of thousands of supernovae, develop expertise in data analysis and machine learning, and work at the forefront of international astrophysics.
This project will focus on designing and testing terahertz (THz) light modulators and manipulators using microstructured materials combined with liquid crystals. It will explore how such systems can resonantly amplify THz field, causing the adjacent layer of liquid crystals to locally reorient thus changing the optical transmission and beam path.
This research investigates the electronic behaviour of metal nanoparticles in liquid environments. Using advanced terahertz spectroscopy, you will reveal how particle size, shape, and surroundings govern charge transport. The results will advance fundamental understanding with direct relevance to light harvesting, photonics, and catalytic technologies.
Consider a major global environmental issue. Perhaps you thought about ocean plastic pollution, air pollution, or sea level rise leading to coastal erosion. In this project, you will contribute to this goal through experimental, theoretical, numerical, or combined approaches, depending on your skills and interests.
This PhD project might be for you if you are concerned about the growing microplastic contamination in our water bodies.
Recently developed ferroelectric nematic liquid crystals offer fast switching speeds and show strong nonlinear responses, as demonstrated through their use in second harmonic generation. They are promising materials for other optical parametric processes used in generating entangled photons and for creating tuneable nonlinear components.
This PhD offers the chance to exploit advanced computer simulations to drive experiments, pushing the boundaries of ultrafast science and opening new frontiers in physics and biomedical applications. Join our interdisciplinary team of physicists, chemists, and engineers to develop a cutting-edge femtosecond laser-based source of X-ray pulses for next-generation imaging.
What happens when a giant star falls into a black hole? This project revolves around the most extreme events in the Universe. It uses cutting-edge analysis and machine learning techniques on data from the Rubin Observatory, and works alongside world experts, to understand the most luminous cosmic puzzle of our time.
We offer a wide range of fully funded studentships. We run several of our PhD studentships in partnership with doctoral training centres, meaning you'll benefit from enhanced training and in some cases funding as well.
These studentships:
Doctoral training centres offer fully funded studentships which include:
Find out more about doctoral training centres.
In association with the UK joining the EU Horizon Programme, the University of Southampton will be introducing and applying an EU fee waiver for students joining us from EU and Horizon associated countries. This means that PGR students joining us from 2025-26 will pay the same fees as UK PGR students.
See here for full information terms and conditions
We offer scholarships and teaching bursaries ourselves. Your potential supervisor can guide you on what is available.
If you’re an international student you may be able to apply for a scholarship from your country.
Find out more about scholarships
Once you've found a supervisor, they can help you with potential funding sources. We offer match funding in some cases.
You'll need to state how you intend to pay for your tuition fees when you submit your application.
Find out more about funding your PhD
You may be able to fund your postgraduate research with funding from your current employer or from industry.
You can borrow up to £30,301 for a PhD starting on or after 1 August 2025. Doctoral loans are not means tested and you can decide how much you want to borrow.
Find out about PhD loans on GOV.UK
You may be able to win funding from one or more charities to help fund your PhD.
We charge tuition fees for every year of study. If you're applying for a fully funded project, your fees will be paid for you.
EU Fee Waiver: If your country is part of the Horizon Europe Programme, you will pay the same fees as UK students.
Find out if your country is part of the Horizon Europe programme
2025 to 2026 entry:
| Subject | UK and Horizon applicants | International fees |
|---|---|---|
| Physics and astronomy full time | £5,006 | £26,700 |
| Physics and astronomy part time | £2,503 | £13,350 |
| Quantum Technology Engineering full time | £5,006 | £26,700 |
| Quantum Technology Engineering part time | £2,503 | £13,350 |
2026 to 2027 entry
| Subject | UK and Horizon applicants | International fees |
|---|---|---|
| Physics and astronomy full time | To be confirmed Spring 2026 | £27,300 |
| Physics and astronomy part time | To be confirmed Spring 2026 | £13,650 |
| Quantum Technology Engineering full time | To be confirmed Spring 2026 | £27,300 |
| Quantum Technology Engineering part time | To be confirmed Spring 2026 | £13,650 |
You're eligible for a 10% alumni discount on a self-funded PhD if you're a current student or graduate from the University of Southampton. This will not apply for programmes that are externally funded. Please check the fees and funding section.
As a postgraduate student you'll join one of our research groups. We're ranked in the top five departments for our research output among the Russell Group universities.
We offer 2 doctoral routes:
It's a good idea to email potential supervisors to discuss the specifics of your project. It's best to do this well ahead of the application deadline.
You’ll find supervisors’ contact details listed with the advertised project, or you can search for supervisors in the staff directory.
You’ll need to send us
The application process is the same whether you're applying for a funded project, or have created a research proposal.
You need at least a 2:1 degree in a relevant subject, for example a Master of Science in physics or a Master of Physics, or its international equivalent.
If English is not your first language, you'll need an IELTS minimum level of 6.0 with a 5.5 in writing, reading, speaking and listening.
Your awarded certificate needs to be dated within the last 2 years.
If you need further English language tuition before starting your degree, you can apply for one of our pre-sessional English language courses.
Check the specific entry requirements listed on the project you’re interested in before you apply.
For general admissions questions, please contact the Doctoral College - feps-pgr-apply@soton.ac.uk.
Research degrees have a minimum and maximum duration, known as the candidature. Your candidature ends when you submit your thesis.
Most candidatures are longer than the minimum period.
| Degree type | Duration |
|---|---|
| Physics and astronomy PhD full time | 2 to 4 years |
| Physics and astronomy PhD part time | 3 to 7 years |
| Quantum Technology Engineering Centre for Doctoral Training PhD (full time) | 4 years |
| Quantum Technology Engineering Centre for Doctoral Training PhD (part time) | 7 years |
