Perform cutting-edge research with our Research Groups. Each 12 month project is unique, as the frontiers of research advance.

The physics group’s active research themes include:

Nanophysics

Energy technologies

Quasicrystals

Molecular electronics

Strongly correlated systems

Magnetism and magnetic materials

Crystal growth

Ionic liquids

Solar energy

Graphene

You will take part in the day-to-day activity of an active research group. Here you'll complete a research project designed by you in collaboration with the group leader. You'll use the latest world-class equipment to perform research in your chosen topic. You'll also have personal guidance from one of our world-leading academic staff.

Research is open-ended in nature. It will be up to you to follow interesting leads and draw conclusions. You'll also benefit from the experience and skill of your supervisor, who will always be available to suggest next steps. We’ll equip you with research skills and the potential to advance knowledge and practice within your chosen field.

The nature of the work means that you will gain a great deal of broad experience. From technical expertise to networking skills and project management. Such experience is in great demand from employers, as it shows that you have the ability to take ownership of a project and drive it to completion.

Future careers

MSc by Research degrees represent an ideal combination of timescale and topic. You choose what to do, and our experienced researchers help you do it effectively. You don’t have to commit 4 years, as for a PhD (though an MSc by Research can be a great route if you plan to subsequently enter PhD research). Where a PhD typically completes 3-4 projects for their thesis, you will complete 1. You’ll gain all of the benefit that is relevant for employment outside academia.