PHD EXPERIMENTAL PHYSICS
- Qualification
- Philosophiae Doctor Degree
- CAO/MU Apply code
- MHL02 (FT)
- Award Type and NFQ level
- Research Ph.d. (10)
- Study Mode
- Full time
Overview
Research degrees in Experimental Physics are based on original research work, which may involve laboratory investigations and/or computational studies. This research is carried out under the supervision of an experienced researcher. In addition, valuable transferable skills are developed through flexible support modules, as part of Maynooth University's structured PhD programme.
Closing date
Research applications are generally accepted at any time
Commences
September (or other agreed time)
Course structure
Duration: 4 years full-time
All students will be registered onto a Structured PhD Programme. Students need to pass a certain number of credits in support modules, in addition to successful completion and examination of the thesis. The student’s original research as presented in the thesis is the sole means of assessment for the award of the degree.
PhD students must take a minimum of 30 credits in support modules (15 in transferable modules and 15 in subject specific modules) and not exceed 90 credits in support modules over the duration of their Structured PhD programme.
Disclaimer
The modules below are indicative of the content associated with this course of study.
The modules are subject to change as the curriculum is revised and reviewed annually.
Careers
During the course of their studies research students at the Department of Experimental Physics develop expertise in specialized areas of experimental physics, computational physics or astrophysics. Research work in Experimental Physics also develops a range of ancillary skills – in the areas of problem-solving, computational modelling, system analysis, and technical communication.
This blend of Physics and transferable skills means that Physics graduates are highly sought after by employers not only in a wide range of traditional high-technology industries such as microelectronics, telecommunication, software engineering or medical physics, but also in an even wider range of areas where advanced numeracy is a distinct advantage – such as scientific civil service, finance or climate science. Students pursuing research in astrophysics also might consider areas specifically requiring astrophysicists such as space science, or satellite and deep space communications.
A PhD degree is also generally a prerequisite for careers in academia and industrial research.
Entry Requirements
First-class or upper second-class (2.1) honours undergraduate degree in Physics, or equivalent.
Applicants must have a recognised primary degree which is considered equivalent to Irish university primary degree level.
Minimum English language requirements:
Applicants for whom English is not their first language are required to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study. For information about English language tests accepted and required scores, please see here. The requirements specified are applicable for both EU and International applicants..
Maynooth University's TOEFL code is 8850
Research Interests
Please see the departmental website for the current research interests of staff www.maynoothuniversity.ie/experimental-physics/our-research
Dr Neil Trappe
Submillimetre astronomy
Dr Créidhe O’Sullivan
Cosmic Microwave Background Astronomy
Dr Marcin Lukasz Gradziel
Computational and experimental validation of terahertz optics
Dr Emma Whelan
Star and planet formation
Dr Colm Bracken
Superconducting detectors, feeds, and readouts for astronomy
Dr James McGrath
Fundamental and applied research focusing on indoor aerosol dynamics, air quality and building ventilation.
Dr Patrick Kavanagh
The matter cycle in galaxies
How to apply
Online application only. To make an application please click here.
Please note: All research applicants should contact the respective department before applying to ensure their research proposal aligns with departmental interests and criteria.
To apply for your chosen postgraduate study at Maynooth University, please ensure you have the following documents to make an application:
- Evidence of your primary degree
- Academic transcripts
- A copy of your passport
- Proposed Thesis Title and Summary
- A personal statement
- An academic letter of recommendation
- A professional letter of recommendation
Applicants for whom English is not their first language are required to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study. For information about English language tests accepted and required scores, please see here. The requirements specified are applicable for both EU and International applicants.