Masters Compare - Find your perfect masters course.
Masters Compare - Find your perfect masters course.
Deadline: 11 August 2025
Wales
Open to: UK and international applicants
Funding providers: Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) and Swansea University's Faculty of Science and Engineering
Subject areas: Theoretical physics, Mathematical Physics, Quantum Field Theory, String Theory
Project start date: 1 October 2025 (Enrolment open from mid-September) ** (Please see the note below regarding potential later start dates)
Project supervisors: Professor Daniel C. Thompson, Professor Tim Hollowood
Aligned programme of study: PhD in Physics
Mode of study: Full-time or part-time
Project description:
Are you fascinated by the deep mathematical structures underlying the laws of physics? Do you want to work at the forefront of theoretical physics and uncover new connections between quantum field theory, string theory, and geometry?
This PhD project offers the opportunity to explore a rich and rapidly developing area of research where powerful mathematical ideas unlock exact solutions in quantum physics. Most physical systems are notoriously difficult to solve exactly—but in rare and remarkable cases, hidden symmetries make this possible. These special cases, known as integrable systems, offer a window into the exact workings of quantum theories.
At Swansea University, our group has played a leading role in uncovering new classes of such systems—known as integrable deformations—and in exploring their relevance to string theory, quantum field theory, and holography. A particularly exciting recent development suggests that a higher-dimensional version of Chern-Simons theory might underpin all known integrable deformations, offering a unifying framework.
As a PhD student on this project, you will:
The project lies at the intersection of geometry, algebra, and quantum physics, and would suit a mathematically inclined student with a background in theoretical physics or mathematics. Prior exposure to quantum field theory, string theory, or related areas is helpful but not essential—what matters most is curiosity, enthusiasm, and a willingness to learn.
You'll be part of a vibrant research group with strong national and international links, and have the opportunity to travel, collaborate, and present your work.
For more details please see here:
Candidates must hold a UK Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of Upper Second Class honours or overseas bachelor’s degree deemed equivalent to a UK Bachelor (by UK ECCTIS) and achieved a grade equivalent to UK Upper Second Class honours – see country specific qualifications
OR a Master’s degree with a minimum overall grade at ‘Merit’ (or Non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University).
IELTS 6.5 overall (with at least 6.0 in each individual component) or Swansea recognised equivalent. Further details available on the Swansea University English Language entry policy.
This scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees and an annual stipend at UKRI rate (currently £20,780 for 2025/26).
Additional research expenses of up to £1,000 will also be available.
Funding duration: 3 years
To apply, please complete the entire application form, following this link: Complete your application here in Learner Gateway
In order to be considered for this scholarship award the following steps are also required.
1) In section ‘Programme Related Information’ please input the relevant RS Code for the scholarship award i.e. RS865
2) In section ‘Research’ you will see ‘Proposed project title/studentship title’* (Mandatory)
3) In section ‘Funding information’ please choose the option ‘Scholarship Funding’ only. Please ensure no other options are selected.
*It is the responsibility of the applicant to list the above information accurately when applying, please note that applications received without the above information listed will not be considered for the scholarship award.
One application is required per individual Swansea University led research scholarship award; applications cannot be considered listing multiple Swansea University led research scholarship awards.
NOTE: Applicants for PhD/EngD/ProfD/EdD - to support our commitment to providing an environment free of discrimination and celebrating diversity at Swansea University you are required to complete an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Monitoring Form in addition to your programme application form.
Please note that completion of the EDI Monitoring Form is mandatory; your application may not progress if this information is not submitted.
As part of your online application, you MUST upload the following documents (please do not send these via email):
Informal enquiries are welcome; please contact Professor Daniel Thompson (d.c.thompson@swansea.ac.uk)
*External Partner Application Data Sharing – Please note that as part of the scholarship application selection process, application data sharing may occur with external partners outside of the University, when joint/co- funding of a scholarship project is applicable.
** In exceptional circumstances, and subject to the discretion of the University and/or the relevant funding body, a deferral of offer may be granted to the next available enrolment period. Such deferral will typically not exceed a duration of three calendar months from the originally stipulated commencement date. Please note that only one deferral may be considered, and any such deferral is not guaranteed.
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