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STFC funded position in theoretical physics

Funding
Funded
Study mode
Full-time
Apply by
Start date
Subject area
Mathematics
How to apply

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Meet us on campus or online in March 2026 to find out more about master’s degrees and research opportunities at Liverpool.

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Overview

The Theoretical Physics group at the University of Liverpool invites applications for PhD STFC-funded studentships, starting 1 October 2026. At least one studentship will focus on quantum technology and/or machine learning for fundamental physics. Co-supervision with experimental physics is possible.

About this opportunity

The Theoretical Physics group provides an internationally leading research and training environment for PhD students in the fields of lattice field theory, particle physics phenomenology, multi-loop calculations, quantum field theory, beyond the standard model physics, astroparticle physics, cosmology and string phenomenology. The theoretical physics group comprises of Pavel Buividovich, Alon Faraggi, Martin Gorbahn, John Gracey, Simon Hands, Thomas M. Mohaupt, Susha Parameswaran, Paul Rakow, David Schaich, Juri Smirnov, Radu Tatar, Thomas Teubner, Tobias Tsang, and Yannick Ulrich.

All members of the Theoretical Physics group can supervise the STFC studentships that are in principle also open to international applicants. The studentships cover living costs at the UKRI studentship rate and student fees.

Preference is given to applicants submitting before 22 February (midnight UK time), early applications are encouraged. Later applications will be considered until the position is filled. Interviews are anticipated for the end of February or early March.

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Who is this for?

Prior background in theoretical particle physics would be an advantage. The successful candidates should have or expect to have at least a 2.1 Master’s degree or equivalent in Physics and/or Mathematics.

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How to apply

  1. 1. Contact supervisors

    Candidates wishing to apply should complete the University of Liverpool application form to apply for a PhD in Mathematical Sciences.

    Please review our guide on How to apply for a PhD | Postgraduate research | University of Liverpool carefully and complete the online postgraduate research application form to apply for this PhD project.

    Please ensure you include the project title and reference number MPPR16 when applying

    https://www.liverpool.ac.uk/mathematical-sciences/staff/

    Supervisor is not specified. Candidates shall contact Yannick Ulrich

  2. 2. Prepare your application documents

    • A research statement discussing the type of research you would be intersted in. This helps us assign a supervisor for the project.
    • University transcripts and degree certificates to date
    • Passport details
    • English language certificates (international applicants only)
    • A personal statement
    • A curriculum vitae (CV)
    • Contact details for two proposed supervisors
    • Names and contact details of two referees.

  3. 3. Apply

    Finally, register and apply online. You'll receive an email acknowledgment once you've submitted your application. We'll be in touch with further details about what happens next.

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Funding your PhD

This STFC Studentship will cover full tuition fees and pay a maintenance grant for 3.5 years, at the UKRI standard rates (for 2025-26 this is £20,780 pa.) The Studentship also comes with access to additional funding in the form of a Research Training Support Grant to fund consumables, conference attendance, etc. The studentships are available to any to any prospective student wishing to apply including both home and international students.

We want all of our Staff and Students to feel that Liverpool is an inclusive and welcoming environment that actively celebrates and encourages diversity. We are committed to working with students to make all reasonable project adaptations including supporting those with caring responsibilities, disabilities or other personal circumstances. For example, If you have a disability you may be entitled to a Disabled Students Allowance on top of your studentship to help cover the costs of any additional support that a person studying for a doctorate might need as a result. We believe everyone deserves an excellent education and encourage students from all backgrounds and personal circumstances to apply.

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Contact us

Have a question about this research opportunity or studying a PhD with us? Please get in touch with us, using the contact details below, and we’ll be happy to assist you.

Yannick Ulrich
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