Programme description
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, and the Dalton Nuclear Institute. In addition, the Jodrell Bank Observatory in Cheshire is a part of the department.
The Photon Physics group studies the interactions between light and matter and uses light to investigate a range of novel and important systems. The scope of the work ranges from improving our theoretical understanding of the quantum nature of these interactions to developing new spectroscopic and microscopic techniques for material science, medicine and biology.
Our experimental work utilises light in its broadest sense, exploiting the electromagnetic spectrum from x-rays to THz frequencies and we employ the cutting-edge facilities available in the Photon Science Institute as well as developing new light sources ourselves. This work often studies the physical processes that underpin applications with important real-world impact, such as the development of efficient new solar cells and LEDs for low-energy lighting.
The postgraduate research environment is well funded and world-class as demonstrated by our ranking in REF2021. 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 school teaching opportunities.
For more information about research themes within the department please visit our themes page or view available projects within the department on our Postgraduate Research projects page .
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
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.