MSc by Research Condensed Matter Physics / Programme details

Year of entry: 2024

Programme description

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Manchester is one of the largest and most active departments of physics in the UK.  We have a long tradition of excellence in both teaching and research, and have interests in most areas of contemporary research.

The Department has a strong presence in a number of Manchester-based centres for multidisciplinary research:  The National Graphene Institute, the Photon Science Institute; the Manchester Centre for Non-Linear Dynamics; the Dalton Nuclear Institute; and the Mesoscience and Nanotechnology Centre.  In addition, the Jodrell Bank Observatory in Cheshire is a part of the Department.

Research in the Condensed Matter physics group is exceptionally broad, from electronic, optical, mechanical and magnetic properties of a large family of atomically thin, two-dimensional materials and their heterostructures to the physics of quantum fluids, intercalation-induced superconductivity in layered and two-dimensional materials and mass transport through atomically thin channels in 2D-materials based membranes. The focus in 2D materials research has now shifted from studying the properties of graphene to `materials on demand' - heterostructures assembled with atomic precision, comprising 2D crystals with a variety of electronic properties - insulators (hBN), semiconductors (phosphorene, MoS2, WSe2, etc.), superconductors (NbSe2, TaS2), 2D magnets (CrI3) - which allows creating devices with desired properties, not readily available in nature. Furthermore, many new atomically thin crystals are being isolated and investigated, further expanding the library of available 2D materials with diverse and often highly desirable properties. Our research is supported by extensive cutting-edge facilities in the Schuster building and the National Graphene Institute, including clean-room microfabrication, measurements and characterisation. The quantum fluids research is supported by unique measurements systems, including ultra-low temperature rotating cryostats. More information is available at http://www.condmat.physics.manchester.ac.uk/ and http://www.graphene.manchester.ac.uk/ .

Strong research activity exists in a broad range of physics topics funded by the Research Councils including EPSRC, STFC, BBSRC, the EU and industry.  All the research groups offer well-equipped laboratories and computing facilities and are involved in a wide range of collaborative projects with industry and other academic departments in the UK and overseas. 

You can also download our Postgraduate Project Booklet (PDF document, 2.6MB) which contains details of research projects available within the department.

The postgraduate research environment is well funded and world-class as demonstrated by our ranking in REF2014. Supervision is provided by academic staff, who are leaders in their fields, with independent pastoral back-up. Transferable skills training is available and there are some department teaching opportunities.

Note: Although the course requires 1 year full time study, students should expect the process of examination of the dissertation may take several months. MSc degrees are usually awarded several months after the end of the programme.

Additional programme information

Equality, diversity and inclusion is fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester, and is at the heart of all of our activities.

We know that diversity strengthens our research community, leading to enhanced research creativity, productivity and quality, and societal and economic impact.

We actively encourage applicants from diverse career paths and backgrounds and from all sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation and transgender status.

We also support applications from those returning from a career break or other roles.

We consider offering flexible study arrangements (including part-time: 50%, 60% or 80%, depending on the project/funder), carer support funds for conferences, and peer support networks for parents and carers.

All appointments are made on merit.  The University of Manchester and our external partners are fully committed to equality, diversity and inclusion.

Coursework and assessment

This is a standard one year full-time research degree which provides the opportunity to carry out a research project while gaining valuable skills and knowledge through a tailored taught package. The programme includes 45 credit taught units and a dissertation project equivalent to 135 credits, creating a standard 180 credit postgraduate MSc by Research programme.

A research project is undertaken under the supervision of a staff member throughout the year together with lectures. Full time is spent working on the project unless attending lectures. A dissertation will be submitted at the year-end. We provide a range of skills training which is particularly focussed on the needs of physics research. 

Programme unit details

A range of specialist and more general lecture units in different areas of physics will be available.

Scholarships and bursaries

In the Department of Physics and Astronomy we offer a range of scholarships, studentships and awards to support UK and overseas postgraduate researchers.

Funding is also available at university and faculty level and can be viewed on our funding page . Alternatively, you can use our funding database to find scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

We'd recommend you discuss potential sources of funding with your supervisor before applying. They can advise what funding may be available to you, and ensure you meet nomination and application deadlines.

Facilities

Disability support

Practical support and advice for current students and applicants is available from the Disability Advisory and Support Service. Email: dass@manchester.ac.uk .