Research degrees and studentships
Postgraduate Research Opportunities
There are a number of routes open to suitably motivated and qualified individuals who wish to undertake postgraduate research in astrophysics leading to either the PhD or MSc degree. We also offer, if resources allow, part-time PhDs.
PhD and MSc projects are being offered in the following research areas. STFC-funded PhD places are 3.5 years full time and MSc projects 1 year full time. Click each link to view a short abstract on each project within that area.
- Galaxies, Active Galactic Nuclei and Cosmology
- Star formation and Stellar Evolution
- Extrasolar Planets and Brown Dwarfs
- Galactic structure (of the Milky Way and in the Near Universe)
STFC Research Studentships for 2013
The School of Physics, Astronomy and Mathematics receives an annual allocation of postgraduate studentships funded by the Science & Technology Facilities Council (STFC) for PhD research in Astrophysics, as well as University funded studentships. We expect to offer 3 full-time STFC studentships, starting in 2013. These full-time studentships start in October and are normally awarded for 3.5 years. The student receives an annual stipend (£13,590 GBP for 2012/13 year). Priority will be given to applications received by 15th Feb 2013.
Applicants must hold, or expect to have been awarded by the starting date, an upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline (e.g., physics, astrophysics, mathematics). You must also meet the eligibility requirements for STFC studentships, which are only open to UK residents.
UH Research Studentships for 2013
These studentships are open to EU students not currently resident within the UK and to overseas (non-EU) students. A few of these studentships are available every year. Applicants must hold, or expect to have been awarded by the starting date, an upper second class honours degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline (e.g., physics, astrophysics, mathematics). The University also expects applicants to have an IELTS (English proficiency) score of normally 6.5 or above. The closing date for applications is the same as for STFC studentships.
Self-funded and Part-time PhD
Suitably qualified candidates may also register as self-funded full-time or part-time PhD students, contingent on sufficient resources being available and research staff commitments. Applications are considered on an individual basis and may be made at any time. Potential applicants should contact Prof. Janet Drew for advice on qualifications, fees, possible research projects and working arrangements.
MSc by Research
We also offer a MSc by Research degree which can be taken either full-time (1 year) or part-time (2 years). Students who enrol in this programme will gain a training in research methods and have the opportunity to work on a substantial research project under the supervision of a member of the research staff. Students are responsible for the payment of fees and living expenses, although a Brian May Scholarship in Astrophysics, worth £2000 is awarded each year. The entry requirement is a minimum lower second class honours degree in Physics, Astrophysics, Mathematics or Computer Sciences. Applications are welcome up until 28th June 2013 for entry in October 2013. Potential applicants should contact us for advice on qualifications, fees and further information.
How to apply:
To apply, a completed application form, along with two letters of reference, should be returned (by post or email) to Lorraine Nicholls at the address below, by the closing date. You should arrange for your referees to write separately using the form provided.
The application form can be downloaded on this link or can be requested from Lorraine Nicholls.
Contact Dr Antonio Chrysostomou for advice on making your application or for further information.
| Applications | Enquiries |
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Lorraine Nicholls Research Student Admissions Science and Technology Research Institute University of Hertfordshire College Lane Hatfield Herts AL10 9ABTel: 01707 286083 Fax: 01707 284185 E-mail: L.Nicholls@herts.ac.uk |
Dr Antonio Chrysostomou Science and Technology Research Institute University of Hertfordshire College Lane Hatfield Herts AL10 9ABTel: 01707 286576 Fax: 01707 284185 E-mail: a.chrysostomou@herts.ac.uk |