Qualification : PHILOSOPHIAE DOCTOR DEGREE
Award Type and NFQ level : RESEARCH PH.D. (10)
CAO/MU Apply code : MHQ04 (FT), MHQ05 (PT)
CAO Points :
PhD (Science) in Theoretical Physics
The objective of the structured research programme in Theoretical Physics is to provide:
- A high quality research experience and training
- Enhanced arrangements for supervision and mentorship
- Structured arrangements for the development of generic and transferable skills
- Advanced discipline-specific taught courses
- Regular monitoring of progress
Closing date
Research applications are generally accepted at any time
Commences
September (or other agreed time)
Candidates for a PhD degree will normally be expected to have a Masters degree or a First Class Honours primary degree in Mathematical/Theoretical Physics or a relevant discipline.
Applicants must have a recognised primary degree which is considered equivalent to Irish university primary degree level.
Minimum English language requirements:
- IELTS: 6.5 minimum overall score
- TOEFL (Paper based test): 585
- TOEFL (Internet based test): 95
- PTE (Pearson): 62
Maynooth Universitys TOEFL code is 8850
Cosmology
Prof Peter Coles
Cosmology and the large-scale structure of the Universe, especially theoretical models of galaxy formation and the evolution of galaxy clustering. The cosmic microwave background as a probe of space-time geometry and models of the early Universe. Dark matter and dark energy. Statistical analysis of present and future observational data, especially the European Space Agency's forthcoming Euclid mission.
Complex Quantum Phenomena
Dr Graham Kells
My main interests are complex quantum phenomena and how they can be harnessed to store and control quantum information. Recently, I have been working on weak zero-modes and quantum many-body scars. I have also become interested in the formalism of third/operator quantisation and have started new projects on measurement-induced entanglement transitions.
Black Holes
Dr John Regan
Dr. Regan's research interests are in the study of the formation and evolution of massive black holes in the early Universe. He uses state-of-the-art computational models to understand the formation pathways of massive black holes and their subsequent dynamics inside early galaxies.
Non-perturbative Quantum Field Theory
Dr Jon-Ivar Skullerud
Non-perturbative computer simulations of quantum field theory; in particular strong interactions. Phase transitions at high temperature and/or density. Confinement and deconfinement of quarks and gluons. Philosophy of physics, in particular quantum field theory.
Topological Phases and Quantum Computation
Dr Joost Slingerland
Topological phenomena in condensed matter physics and their application to fault tolerant and scalable quantum computation. This involves study of two dimensional systems that harbor anyons quasiparticles with exotic exchange properties. These topological phases and transitions between them are studied both at the level of topological field theory, and in local models and realistic physical contexts such as the fractional quantum Hall effect.
Topological Quantum Computation
Prof Jiri Vala
Topological phases of condensed matter systems. Topological quantum computation. Fault-tolerant quantum computation. Theory of decoherence and quantum error correction and suppression.
Topics in Applied Mathematics
Dr Paul Watts
Applications of group theory and algebra in high-energy physics, quantum field theory and quantum information processing; mathematical modelling and statistical inference in the social sciences.
For further details on the research specialisms within the Department please visit: https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/theoretical-physics/our-research.
Typically a PhD in Theoretical Physics takes four years of full time study (six years part time). The structured PhD programme involves substantial original research under the supervision of academic staff in an area of theoretical physics or applied mathematics and the submission of a major thesis containing a significant amount of original matherial and results. Prospective students should contact potential supervisors to discuss possible research projects before submitting an application. In addition students must take a minimum of 30 credits in taught modules (15 in generic/transferable modules and 15 in subject/specialist modules) and not exceed 90 credits in taught modules over the duration of their Structured PhD programme.
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.