Physics and Astronomy
Postgraduate Study
2017
ph.qmul.ac.uk
Students tour the School’s Grid Computing
Cluster. This very large cluster of computers
is used in the analysis of particle physics
data from the Large Hadron Collider at
CERN as well as for materials physics and
astronomy simulations
“Postgraduate students in the
School of Physics and Astronomy are
supervised by academic staff who
are involved in some of the most
high-profile research collaborations
around the world. They therefore
have access to, and contribute to,
a world of cutting-edge physics”
Professor Steve Lloyd, Head of School
2 ph.qmul.ac.uk
CONTENTS
Welcome to QMUL
5
What we offer
6
Physics and astronomy
at QMUL
8
Our facilities
10
Careers and employability
12
Our taught programmes
14
Funding your masters
20
PhD study in physics
and astronomy
22
QMUL Doctoral College
32
Essential information
34
Next steps
35
International and EU students
36
Our home in east London
40
Accommodation
44
Meet us
46
Student services A–Z
48
How to find us
50
Campus and Tube maps
52
Taught programmes index
54
Front cover: An image of the Helix Nebula taken
by the VISTA Telescope, the build of which was
led by QMUL’s Professor Jim Emerson.
Credit: ESO/VISTA/J Emerson. Acknowledgment:
Cambridge Astronomical Survey Unit
ph.qmul.ac.uk 3
The Queens’ Building, Mile End has a proud
association with not one, but four queens:
Queen Victoria; Queen Mary (wife of King
George V); Queen Elizabeth The Queen
Mother; and our Patron, Queen Elizabeth II
QMUL highlights
• World-class research – QMUL
ranked 9th in the UK among
multi-faculty universities (REF 2014)
• Teaching by international leaders
in their field
• In the top 100 universities in the world
(Times Higher Education World University
Ranking 2015)
• Member of the Russell Group of leading
UK universities
• Attractive residential campus in London
• Commitment to financial support –
£11m invested in supporting
postgraduate students (2014/15)
• Distinguished history dating back to 1123
(the foundation of St Bartholomew’s
Hospital), and the start of teaching at the
London Hospital Medical College in 1785.
4 ph.qmul.ac.uk
WELCOME TO QUEEN MARY
UNIVERSITY OF LONDON (QMUL)
Do you want to work at the forefront
of the latest research? Explore
your academic interests in depth?
Develop new knowledge and skills?
Advance your career, or embark on a
completely new path? A postgraduate
degree from QMUL can help you
achieve your ambitions.
We are one of the UK’s leading universities
– in the most recent national assessment
of research quality, we were placed ninth
in the UK in the latest Research Excellence
Framework (REF 2014), among multi-faculty
universities. This means that the teaching
on our postgraduate programmes is directly
inspired by the world-leading research of
our academics.
Our programmes prepare you for professional
life or further study, and we offer a commitment
to generous financial support in the form of
studentships and scholarships. We also offer a
friendly, self-contained residential campus –
one of the largest in the capital – at our main
site in Mile End.
We have a rich history in London with our
roots in Europe’s first public hospital, St
Barts; England’s first medical school, The
London; one of the first colleges to provide
higher education to women, Westfield
College; and the Victorian philanthropic
project, the People’s Palace at Mile End.
This commitment to the local area and public
good underpins our work today, especially
in our collaborations with hospitals, cultural
organisations, government, charities,
businesses and industry.
When you join QMUL you will be welcomed
into a diverse and supportive family of staff
and students from all over the world, with a
wide variety of life experience. This makes
QMUL a place of academic and personal selfdiscovery, and postgraduate study with us a
stimulating – often life-changing – experience.
Meet us
The best way to get a feel for Queen Mary
life is to join us for one of our Postgraduate
Open Evenings. You can explore our campus,
meet our tutors and students, and get a
taste of what studying here will be like. If
you are unable to visit us in person, we run
virtual open events, where you can speak
online to current staff and students. We also
have representatives in 48 countries and
staff who regularly travel overseas. For more
information, and a list of open and virtual
events, see page 47 or qmul.ac.uk/visitus
ph.qmul.ac.uk 5
WHAT WE OFFER
WORLD-CLASS UNIVERSITY
• We are in the top 100 universities in
the world and the top 50 in Europe
(Times Higher Education World University
Rankings 2015) • We are a member of the Russell Group
– the UK’s 24 leading universities
INNOVATIVE RESEARCH
• QMUL was ranked 9th in the UK among multi-faculty
universities for the quality of its research and 5th (at
83%) for “world-leading or internationally excellent”
(4*/3*) research outputs in the most recent Research
Excellence Framework (REF 2014)
• Joint 1st in London for the quality of our physics research
outputs (REF 2014)
• £125m – QMUL research income (2014/15)
CAREER SUCCESS
• 400+ employees and training organisations
visited the campus last year
• £58,000 provided in seed funding by QMUL
Careers and Enterprise to 31 students in 2015/16
to start new – or grow existing – businesses
6 ph.qmul.ac.uk
EXCEPTIONAL FACILITIES
• £98m on new facilities in the past five years,
including £14m on the Physics
and Astronomy building in 2014
• 7,700 square metres of new learning and
teaching space with the opening of the
£39m Graduate Centre in early 2017
INTERNATIONAL
OUTLOOK
• Students and staff from
more than 155 countries
• In the top 25 most
internationally diverse
universities in the world
(Times Higher Education, 2016)
GENEROUS SUPPORT
• £11m invested university-wide in
2014/15 to support postgraduate
students
GREAT LOCATION
• Short walk from Brick Lane and Shoreditch,
and close to London’s financial centres,
the City and Canary Wharf
HIGH-QUALITY TEACHING
• 7 Nobel Prize-winning alumni and staff
• 55 academy and society fellows
among QMUL academic staff
• Personal Adviser support system
for every student
• Set beside the Regent’s Canal in Mile End,
our main campus is one Tube stop to
Stratford and the Queen Elizabeth
Olympic Park
• Our largest campus is at Mile End and we
have four other locations across central
and east London: Charterhouse Square,
Lincoln’s Inn Fields, West Smithfield and
Whitechapel
ph.qmul.ac.uk 7
PHYSICS AND
ASTRONOMY
AT QMUL
Do you want to contribute to an
area of cutting-edge research in
an awe-inspiring subject? Do you
want to delve deeper into advanced
topics in physics or astronomy?
Develop valuable new knowledge
and skills? Prepare for a research
career, or embark on a completely
new path? Whatever your motivation,
postgraduate study with the School
of Physics and Astronomy at Queen
Mary University of London (QMUL) is
a great way to kick-start your future.
1st in London
Ranked joint first in London for research outputs
(REF 2014), the School of Physics and Astronomy
has an international reputation for its research
across areas including experimental particle physics,
materials physics, string theory and astronomy.
Image courtesy of CERN
Pioneering research
View of Canary Wharf from Mile
End Park, adjacent to QMUL
8 ph.qmul.ac.uk
From early studies in radioactivity, which led
to Rutherford’s discovery of the atomic nucleus;
to involvement in the Nobel Prize-winning
discovery of the W and Z bosons;
developing superstring theory; to our current
work with the ATLAS Experiment at CERN,
(which has led to the discovery of the
Higgs boson), our research has impact
around the world.
Work with leading academics
Our academics work on high-profile
international research including the ATLAS
experiment at CERN, surveys with the
VISTA telescope at the European Southern
Observatory and the NASA/ESA Cassini
mission to Saturn. They publish in leading
journals such as Nature, write books, lead
international conferences and comment in
the media. For more information, visit:
ph.qmul.ac.uk/directory/academics
Study taught modules
at other London universities
As a student of the University of London you
will have access to modules taught at UCL
and King’s College London. PhD students have
even further access to taught courses through
local collaborations.*
*Students with an existing Transport for London travelcard will
normally be able to reach these institutions at no extra cost.
£14m invested in refurbishment
and new facilities in 2014
The School benefited from an extensive £14m
refurbishment in 2014. Our new facilities
include breakout spaces, offices
and laboratories used in MSc projects.
Join our research community
Take part in regular academic meetings,
colloquia and seminars with exciting
speakers from renowned institutions.
Enhanced teaching
We are part of the South East Physics
Network (SEPnet), a group of 12 universities
committed to boosting postgraduates’
employability through the UK’s largest
dedicated physics graduate school in
England. For more information on the
benefits of SEPnet and a list of partner
universities, visit: sepnet.ac.uk/about-sepnet
ph.qmul.ac.uk 9
OUR
FACILITIES
National and international facilities
Postgraduate students can make use of the
leading research infrastructure at CERN and
the Rutherford Appleton Laboratories, as well
as mission data from QMUL collaborations
such as Cassini, CLUSTER and the VISTA
telescope, for use in research projects.
School facilities
You will benefit from access to super-fast
research networks and worldwide grid
computing facilities such as GridPP, as well
as a number of high-performance clusters
on-site at QMUL.
Experimental equipment and facilities in
the School include clean rooms, workshops
and laboratories for materials research and
the production of molecular and organic
electronics, as well as the manufacture of
prototype particle detectors.
Our newly refurbished observatory houses
a Celestron C14 telescope on a computercontrolled mount, fitted with filters and a
high-resolution CCD. Mounted alongside
the primary telescope is a Lunt 80mm solar
telescope and CCD for solar observations.
New offices and open spaces provide a
range of opportunities for you to work, meet
or discuss ideas with others. Each research
group has its own breakout space and kitchen
facilities, while staff and students from across
the School regularly use our larger social and
study space.
10 ph.qmul.ac.uk
Students have access to experimental data,
such as that from the VISTA infrared telescope
in Chile. QMUL’s Professor Jim Emerson led
the team that built the telescope and now
works on the results of its surveys
Image credit: G Hüdelpohl (Atacamaphot.com)/ESO
ph.qmul.ac.uk 11
CAREERS AND EMPLOYABILITY
The range of skills gained through
our programmes, coupled with
opportunities for extracurricular
activities, has enabled our students
to enter varied careers and undertake
further research at international
institutions.
A significant proportion of our graduates
pursue their interest in physics and astronomy
by studying for a PhD, and then go on to
apply their knowledge directly, working as
university lecturers or researchers.
Others make use of their wide range of
transferable skills – excellent problem-solving
skills, ability in mathematical modelling,
data analysis or coding, broad intellectual
and analytical competency, and ability to
communicate complex ideas – to enter into
a diverse range of careers such as:
• Quantitative Researcher Marshall Wace
Asset Management
• Science Communicator Royal Observatory
• Risk Analyst Equifax
• Lecturer in Mathematics King’s College
London
• Campaign Analyst Financial Times
Academic development
Our postgraduate degrees provide excellent
training for academic careers. Key features
include:
• Exposure to contemporary research
and research methods
12 ph.qmul.ac.uk
• Extended project work in close supervision
with an academic subject specialist
• A EuroMasters programme that incorporates
an entire academic year of project work;
excellent preparation for PhD study
• The longer duration of the EuroMasters
programme is in line with equivalent
European MScs, ideal for those looking
to compete for European PhD positions.
Careers support
We believe it is vitally important to support
our students in their career development.
We organise weekly careers sessions
within the School that are tailored to your
needs. These sessions also support you in
making job applications, preparing CVs, and
developing your interview skills. At QMUL,
we also have a dedicated Careers Consultant
for PhD and post-doctoral students, providing
one-to-one appointments and a careers
programme for researchers.
Our QMUL Careers team offers advice,
information and guidance, and organises
regular recruitment and networking
events throughout the year. There are also
opportunities for you to gain work experience
through QMUL’s temporary work recruitment
agency, QTemps.
The Careers team also offers one-to-one
appointments for CV checking and mock
interviews, tailored workshops, employerled events, and recruitment support for
internships, part-time jobs and work
placements.
ALUMNI PROFILE: Alex Keshavarzi
Studied: Physics (EuroMasters) MSc in Theoretical Physics
What are you doing now? I am now in the second year of my PhD in theoretical physics at the University of
Liverpool. There is no doubt that the MSc at QMUL fully prepared me for project research and helped me to
realise that a PhD was definitely what I wanted to do next.
What attracted you to the MSc at QMUL?
I liked the department and after working on my BSc dissertation in the Theoretical Physics group, I knew I would
gain a lot from completing the year-long MSc project there. The fact that it was a two-year course with a whole
year dedicated to research was also an attraction. I wanted to undertake a PhD and felt that the experience of
the Research Project as part of the MSc would be a good stepping stone.
The taught year of the MSc programme offered a choice of intercollegiate studies, allowing me to pick modules
at King’s College, UCL and Royal Holloway. This made a huge difference, as it widened my options and enabled
me to experience different institutions.
In my research year, I was able to contribute to the research of the department, along with the staff and
PhD students.
The QMUL Enterprise team supports students
interested in starting their own business
through funding, one-to-one advice and
workshops, workspace, and access to experts
and entrepreneurial networks.
Read more about our careers programmes
and range of work experience opportunities
at: careers.qmul.ac.uk
ph.qmul.ac.uk 13
OUR TAUGHT PROGRAMMES
ASTROPHYSICS MSc
Astrophysics MSc
One year full-time,
two years part-time
qmul.ac.uk/msc-astrophysics
Unique in the UK in terms of the scope of
material covered, this programme gives you a
detailed overview of the fundamentals of
the subject, as well as an up-to-date account
of recent developments in research. The
range of topics offered reflects the breadth
of the research interests pursued by staff
in our large and friendly research group.
Lectures cover diverse topics such as the
origin of the universe, dark matter, the life
and death of stars, black holes, extrasolar
planets and space and solar plasma physics.
You will also write a dissertation, which may
be a critical review of an astrophysical topic
or a project of an observational, theoretical or
computational nature.
Structure
You will take eight taught modules (each
module comprises 24 hours of lectures and
additional tutorials given over a 12-week
semester). The dissertation is completed
during the summer and handed in at the
end of August.
Part-time students attend:
• lectures on both Tuesdays and Thursdays
on either afternoons or evenings (the latter
are typically chosen by those in full-time
employment), or
• lectures on both afternoons and evenings
on either Tuesday or Thursday.
Full-time students attend all lectures.
Core modules include:
• Research Methods for Astrophysics
• Cosmology
• Stellar Structure and Evolution
• Solar System
• Extrasolar Planets and Astrophysical Discs
• Astrophysical Plasmas
• The Galaxy
• Electromagnetic Radiation in Astrophysics
For further information, please see:
astro.qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate-taughtastrophysics-modules
14 ph.qmul.ac.uk
OUR TAUGHT PROGRAMMES
ASTRONOMY AND
ASTROPHYSICS PgCert
Astronomy and Astrophysics PgCert
One year part-time
qmul.ac.uk/cert-astro-phys
This PgCert programme provides an
opportunity to study topics in modern
astrophysics, either for personal interest or
as a first step towards a professional career
in astronomy, for those with degrees with
sufficient mathematical or physics content.
While the number of modules taken by a
PgCert student is half that of the Astrophysics
MSc, you will be taught alongside students on
the MSc programme and will have access to
the same facilities and modules.
Previous students that have performed
sufficiently well in the PgCert have had their
registration changed to the MSc programme,
allowing their work to count as the first of two
part-time years. Students have also previously
progressed from here to a PhD position.
Structure
You will take four taught modules (each
module comprises 24 hours of lectures and
additional tutorials given over a 12-week
semester), normally two of the four modules
available in each semester would be chosen.
Attendance at lectures is the same as for a
part-time Astrophysics MSc student
(see opposite).
Modules
Available modules are the same as for the
Astrophysics MSc (see opposite).
Further information
For further information, please email:
physics@qmul.ac.uk
ph.qmul.ac.uk 15
OUR TAUGHT PROGRAMMES
PHYSICS MSc
Physics MSc (three pathways:
Theoretical Physics, Particle Physics
and Condensed Matter Physics)
One year full-time
http://ph.qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/
masters-programmes
This programme teaches you the fundamental
laws and physical principles, along with their
applications, of your chosen pathway. It will
develop strong research skills and your
ability to communicate complex scientific
ideas concisely, accurately and informatively.
You will also learn how to use mathematical
analysis to model physical behaviour and
interpret the mathematical descriptions of
physical phenomena. All of which is excellent
preparation for those wishing to do a PhD.
The aim of the programme is to deepen
your understanding of your chosen branch
of contemporary physics, covering advanced
concepts and techniques, leaving you well
prepared for further doctoral-level study and
research. The programme will also enable you
to develop skills transferable to a wide range
of other careers.
Programme structure
You will take 120 credits of taught modules
(each worth 15 credits) and a 60-credit
research project. For your taught component,
you will have access to the university’s
intercollegiate programme, delivered by
lecturers from QMUL, UCL, King’s College
London and Royal Holloway, University of
London. Each pathway has compulsory
modules and in some cases option modules
chosen from an approved list: ph.qmul.ac.uk/
intranet/postgraduates/msc-module-index
16 ph.qmul.ac.uk
Physics (Theoretical Physics) MSc
qmul.ac.uk/msc-physics-tp
Semester A
• Relativistic Waves and Quantum Fields
• Advanced Topics in Classical Field Theory
• Plus a further two modules, chosen
from the list of approved modules (see
below left)
Semester B
• Advanced Quantum Field Theory
• Functional Methods in Quantum Field Theory
• Plus two further modules, chosen
from the list of approved modules
• MSc Research Project
Physics (Particle Physics) MSc
qmul.ac.uk/msc-physics-pp
Semester A
• Particle Physics
• Particle Accelerator Physics
• Relativistic Waves and Quantum Fields
• Plus one further module, chosen
from the list of approved modules
Semester B
• Standard Model Physics and Beyond
• Advanced Quantum Field Theory
• Plus two options
• MSc Research Project
Professor Richard Nelson with students in
the School’s newly refurbished observatory
Physics (Condensed Matter Physics) MSc
qmul.ac.uk/msc-physics-cmp
Semester A
• Phase Transitions
• Plus three further modules chosen
from a list of approved modules
Semester B
• Electronic Structure Methods
• Plus three further modules, chosen
from the list of approved modules
• MSc Research Project
Further information
Dr Rodolfo Russo
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 5810
email: r.russo@qmul.ac.uk
ph.qmul.ac.uk 17
OUR TAUGHT PROGRAMMES
PHYSICS (EUROMASTERS) MSc
Physics (EuroMasters) MSc
Two years full-time
qmul.ac.uk/msc-physics-euro
This programme benefits from teaching across
the SEPnet partner institutions (see page 9),
with a strong emphasis on research-based
learning. You will deepen your understanding
of a chosen branch of contemporary physics
or astrophysics, covering a wide variety of
themes at the forefront of both fundamental
and applied physics research. The programme
consists of taught modules and an in-depth
research project, leaving you well prepared for
further doctoral-level study and research. There
are two pathways in the programme: Physics
and Astrophysics.
This programme will:
• Enable you to develop skills transferable
to a wide range of other careers
• Allow you to gain a deep understanding of
your chosen area through the combination
of advanced taught programmes and an
extended research project
• Give you the option to study at other
SEPnet universities. (Travel to partner
universities is at your own cost.) The
SEPnet consortium institutions each offer
programmes that are mutually compatible (for
more information, see sepnet.ac.uk)
• Provide 120 ECTS credits, which will allow
you to enter doctoral-level programmes in
other EU countries.
Programme structure
There are around 50 modules to choose
from on this programme. Many of these are
intercollegiate and are taught by lecturers
from QMUL, UCL, King’s College London
and Royal Holloway, University of London.
Astrophysics
Taught modules (worth 15 credits each,
unless stated) to a total of 120 credits, taken
from the following Astrophysics MSc modules:
• Solar System • The Galaxy • Research
Methods for Astrophysics • Relativistic
Astrophysics and Gravitation • Cosmology
• Stellar Structure and Evolution
• Astrophysical Plasmas • Extrasolar
Planets and Astrophysical Discs • Advanced
Research Methods (30 credits) • Physics
(EuroMasters) Project (90 credits)
Physics
An agreed combination of taught modules,
a research review project and a programme
of skills training, to the value of 120 credits.
Modules (worth 15 credits, unless stated) may
be selected from the indicative list below:
• Phase Transitions • Solitons • Statistical
Mechanics • Relativistic Waves and Quantum
Fields • Advanced Quantum Field Theory
• Functional Methods in Quantum Field
Theory • Electronic Structure Methods
• Physics (EuroMasters) Project (120 credits)
Further information
Dr Rodolfo Russo
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 5810
email: r.russo@qmul.ac.uk
18 ph.qmul.ac.uk
Students Hang Gu and Farouq Chousein
using a profilometer to measure the
thickness of a thin film
ph.qmul.ac.uk 19
FUNDING YOUR MASTERS
Tuition fees
You can find a full list of both UK/EU
and overseas tuition fees here:
qmul.ac.uk/tuitionfees
Funding
We want to attract the best students to QMUL
regardless of their financial situation and
every year we offer a range of scholarships
for academically excellent students. For the
latest information, please visit:
qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/funding
Astrophysics MSc Scholarships
Scholarships for Astrophysics MSc students
are often available from the School of Physics
and Astronomy. As a guide, for 2015/16
entry we were able to offer two scholarships
of £2,250 and one of £4,500 to home and
international students respectively. For up-todate information on these scholarships, see
ph.qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/scholarshipsand-fees
As a guide, in 2015/16 we were able to offer
the following:
Queen Mary Alumni Awards
All QMUL graduates starting an MSc in
2015/16 were eligible for a £1,000 Alumni
Loyalty Award.
Scholarships and bursaries
International candidates
Faculty of Science and Engineering Taught
Scholarship
We were pleased to offer £1,500 to every
Home/EU student accepted on to a science
and engineering programme with a UK first
class bachelors degree or equivalent.
International Science and Engineering
Excellence Awards
This extensive scheme provided awards of up
to £5,000 for students, based on academic
achievement. To achieve the highest award,
students have to hold a UK first class bachelors
degree or equivalent.
20 ph.qmul.ac.uk
Chevening scholarships
The British Council administers the UK
government’s Chevening Scholarship
programme. This is a special worldwide
scheme to fund masters-level study by
international students, and QMUL attracts
about 20 Chevening Scholars every year.
For further information, please visit
chevening.org or your local British Council
office (britishcouncil.org) who will also be
able to inform you of any other scholarship
opportunities open to you.
Laser equipment and an optical table in
the School’s Materials Physics laboratory
Postgraduate Loan Scheme
The Postgraduate Loan Scheme (PGL),
launched in 2016, is offering up to
£10,000 per course towards fees and living
costs for taught and research masters
courses in all subject areas for eligible
students.
The PGL is designed for those undertaking
their first taught masters degree. To be
eligible, you must be aged under 60 on
1 August of the year in which you start your
programme, but other criteria will apply
(see the government’s website below).
At the time of going to press, details are still
being finalised. For further information on
how to apply, loan repayments – including
salary scales, interest rates and residence
conditions – please visit:
• The UK government’s website:
gov.uk/postgraduate-loan
• Student Finance England’s Student
Finance Zone:
thestudentroom.co.uk/studentfinance
• QMUL’s Advice and Counselling team:
welfare.qmul.ac.uk/money/postgraduates
• QMUL’s Funding a Masters webpages:
qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/taught/
funding_masters
ph.qmul.ac.uk 21
PhD STUDY IN PHYSICS
AND ASTRONOMY
We offer postgraduate PhD research
opportunities in a wide range of areas of
physics and astronomy and have a large and
thriving community of postgraduate research
students, numbering around 80 at any one
time. Research students are assigned a
supervisor who has closely related interests,
and with whom they agree on a programme
of study and research. The School provides
opportunities for acquiring relevant skills
through a range of short courses and training
seminars. You will also have the opportunity
to gain experience and training in teaching
through laboratory demonstrating and
problem class delivery, while at the
same time supplementing your income.
Research areas
Research in the School is conducted across
four dedicated research centres, with lots of
interaction between the centres.
The centres are:
• Particle Physics Research Centre: conducts
fundamental research in experimental
particle physics, playing a leading role in
major international experiments, including
ATLAS at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC),
T2K and SNO+, as well as hosting a major
component of the LHC Computing Grid.
• Centre for Research in String Theory:
focusing on string theory and its many
applications in physics and mathematics,
this Centre works on areas such as
M-theory, branes and their dynamics,
twistor string-gauge theory, emergent
D-branes and new geometries in string
theory.
22 ph.qmul.ac.uk
•C
entre for Condensed Matter and Materials
Physics: improves understanding of
materials’ properties and behaviour,
through both experimental and
theoretical approaches. Key topics
include optoelectronic materials,
organic semiconductors, nanoscale
materials and the glass transition.
•A
stronomy Unit: conducts fundamental
research into cosmology, formation and
dynamics of planetary systems, solar and
stellar physics, astronomical and solar
plasmas, and survey astronomy.
Funding a PhD
There is a variety of funding sources available
to PhD students. These include: QMUL
Studentships, Research Council Studentships,
and external funding bodies. For more
information, see qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/
funding
QMUL studentships (Home and International)
In 2015/16 we offered a number of research
studentships (which are normally tenable for
up to three years). The studentships cover
tuition fees and provide maintenance at the
basic Research Council level (for guidance:
£16,296 during the 2016/17 session). For
further information, please see:
ph.qmul.ac.uk/phd/phd-opportunities
The School also welcomes self-funded PhD
students or those with funding from external
bodies.
International funding awards
There is a range of externally funded
awards available to international students for
PhD study. These include schemes such as
those administered by the Commonwealth
Scholarships Commission but also those
run on a country-by-country basis, often
in conjunction with QMUL, such as the
China Scholarship Council scheme or
Science without Borders in Brazil. For more
information, see: qmul.ac.uk/international/
feesfinance/funding_phd or contact the British
Council in your home country for
more information.
Choosing your research topic
We recommend that you first make up your
mind about the area of physics in which you
wish to work and, ideally, research prospective
PhD supervisors at the School. It is important
that your supervisor shares your research
interests so that he or she can successfully
guide you in your research.
Entry requirements
The normal entry requirement for a PhD
in the School is the equivalent of a British
first class honours BA/BSc/BEng in physics
or a related subject, or a more advanced
qualification such as MSci, MMath or MSc/
MA. Candidates may be invited to interview.
Non-native English speakers are required
to have a minimum of IELTS 6.5 or its
equivalent.
Sophia Goldberg, standing
next to one of Einstein’s field
equations while on holiday
“I work with two supervisors whose
expertise lies in applying general
relativity to cosmology – their role
is to help guide the project and point
me in the right direction”
Sophia Goldberg, third-year PhD student
How to apply
The schedule for application is:
• Deadline for applications for funded
studentships is at the end of January
• Interviews will take place in February
• Offers to successful candidates will
be made from the end of February.
To apply, visit: ph.qmul.ac.uk/phd/
phd-opportunities
ph.qmul.ac.uk 23
PhD STUDY IN PHYSICS
AND ASTRONOMY
“My research focuses on
cosmology, the study of the entire
universe. I model the evolution
of the universe when it was only
a fraction of a second old, and
calculate signatures of this early
evolution that we can observe
today, 14 billion years later! This
allows us to test theories of physics
at extremely high energy scales.
“The Astronomy Unit is a perfect
place to conduct this work because
of the collaborative atmosphere
and vast range of expertise in
the School as a whole. We have
everything from string theorists, to
experts in large-scale computing,
to observers. When coupled with
world-class facilities, such as our
local computing clusters, we have
the experience and resources
available to solve even the
most complex of problems”
Dr David Mulryne, Astronomy Unit
24 ph.qmul.ac.uk
PhD study in astronomy
The Astronomy Unit offers research
opportunities across a wide range of areas in
astronomy and astrophysics. Current research
programmes cover the areas of cosmology;
planetary formation and dynamics (including
exoplanets); astrophysical, space and solar
plasma physics; and survey astronomy. Most
research programmes are theoretical or use
computer simulation, but we also welcome
applications for observational projects, for
example, using data from VISTA or Cassini.
For more details, see: astro.qmul.ac.uk/phd/
astronomy-unit-phd-programme
“My choice to study in the
Astronomy Unit was down to
its reputation as one of the
long-standing leaders in the
field and the strong links to
other institutions in the UK
and internationally. When I
met potential supervisors their
enthusiasm and expertise was
clear – it made it easy to choose
where I wanted to study. There is
a huge amount of support from
academics, as well as fellow
students, giving the group a
very open feel”
Matt Mutter, PhD student in astronomy
PhD student Matt Mutter relaxing in
the Astronomy Unit’s breakout space
ph.qmul.ac.uk 25
PhD STUDY IN PHYSICS
AND ASTRONOMY
PhD study in condensed matter
and materials physics
The Centre for Condensed Matter and
Materials Physics (CCMMP) is currently
recruiting exceptional science students
to begin their PhD studies. Our extensive
research programme spans experimental,
computational and theoretical physics, with
projects ranging from investigations of the
fundamental physics of condensed matter
to the applications of materials physics to
important technological challenges.
Projects are currently available in topics
including organic semiconductors and
spintronics, phase transitions, liquids and
glasses, supercritical matter, radiation
damage, carbon, optoelectronic materials,
structure-property relationships of inorganic,
organic and hybrid materials, high-pressure
physics, nucleation, multiferroic materials,
nanoparticles, and properties of metals.
Application areas include energy, transport,
medicine and the environment.
For information and sample project details,
see: ccmmp.ph.qmul.ac.uk/phd/welcome
26 ph.qmul.ac.uk
PhD student Hang Gu with
supervisor Dr Theo Kreouzis
“As a CCMMP PhD student I have
benefited from the support of two
wonderful supervisors. With their
input, I have been free to challenge
the assumptions of established
scientists and investigate new
ideas. Their expertise and guidance
has been key in enabling my
development as a researcher”
Hang Gu, fourth-year PhD student,
Centre for Condensed
Matter and Materials Physics (CCMMP)
Professor Bill Gillin working with
PhD student Asmi Barot in one of
our material physics laboratories
“My work is on the physics of organic
semiconductors. This relatively new
class of materials has novel properties
that allow us to make very efficient light
emitting devices. I have been researching
ways to make optical devices such as
lasers from these materials, which could
be incorporated directly into silicon chips.
“I really love the ‘eureka’ moment when a
student comes to a research meeting with
their latest results and there is a realisation
that something new has just been discovered.
It’s the first step of a new journey”
Professor Bill Gillin, Centre for Condensed Matter and Materials Physics
ph.qmul.ac.uk 27
PhD STUDY IN PHYSICS
AND ASTRONOMY
PhD study in string theory
The Centre for Research in String Theory
(CRST) has a number of PhD positions
available. Areas of research include:
scattering amplitudes, supersymmetry,
string cosmology, D-branes, AdS/CFT
correspondence and more.
For information and sample project details,
see: strings.ph.qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/
phd-crst
“I like the atmosphere at QMUL.
As a PhD student you can draw on
the expertise of any of the CRST
academics, not just your PhD
supervisor. You are given freedom
to research areas that you
personally find interesting, rather
than being stuck working on topics
outside your interest.
“I was delighted to publish a paper
with my supervisor at the end of my
first year. We then worked together
with a collaborator, in a different
part of the School, to produce a
second paper a few months later”
Zak Kenton, third-year PhD student,
Centre for Research in String Theory (CRST)
28 ph.qmul.ac.uk
Professor Gabriele Travaglini
discussing topics in theoretical physics
in the group’s own breakout space
“In my research I study scattering
amplitudes, the fundamental
quantities that describe the
observations of high-energy
collider experiments. Scattering
amplitudes are at the heart of
relativistic quantum theories,
and are often described by
mysteriously simple and
beautiful expressions.
Using ideas from string theory,
supersymmetry and twistor
theory we can not only explain
this simplicity, but also make
predictions for present and future
collider experiments”
Professor Gabriele Travagilni,
Professor of Theoretical Physics
ph.qmul.ac.uk 29
PhD STUDY IN PHYSICS
AND ASTRONOMY
PhD study in particle physics
The Particle Physics Research Centre (PPRC)
is seeking high-calibre PhD students to join
our teams working on large international
collaborations, including the long baseline
neutrino experiment T2K in Japan and the
ATLAS experiment at CERN’s Large Hadron
Collider. You will have the opportunity to
participate in data analysis and benefit from
travel to relevant international labs. Particle
physics PhD students are able to attend
topical workshops and conferences. For
information and sample project details,
see: pprc.qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/
phd-programme
“I work on neutrinos, the ghost
particles of the universe.
About 100 trillion neutrinos pass
through our bodies every second.
They can also be produced on Earth
through very powerful particle
accelerators. I work on a number
of extraordinarily ambitious
experiments designed to detect
these particles, namely
T2K and Hyper-Kamiokande in
Japan, SNO+ in Canada and
ANNIE in the US. The aim is to use
all the information we can collect
on the neutrinos’ properties to
understand the nature
of our Universe”
Professor Francesca Di Lodovico,
Head of the Particle Physics Research Centre
30 ph.qmul.ac.uk
Tom Stevenson, second-year PhD student, on
a visit to the School’s Computing Cluster. The
cluster is part of an international grid of facilities
that analyse particle physics data from CERN
“QMUL has a great atmosphere, being
situated in bustling east London with lots of
things to see and do. As a PhD student
in PPRC, there are a great number of
opportunities to become heavily involved in
cutting-edge particle physics research. The
group is very friendly and open and people
bounce ideas off each other. Also
there are often interesting discussions
about developments in the field over
coffee or lunch, as well as regular seminars
given by internal and external speakers”
Tom Stevenson, second-year PhD student,
Particle Physics Research Centre (PPRC)
ph.qmul.ac.uk 31
QMUL DOCTORAL COLLEGE
As a PhD student at QMUL, you will
be a member of our Doctoral College,
an exciting and innovative community
of more than 1,200 postgraduates
pursuing pioneering research across
a wide range of academic disciplines.
The Doctoral College (which from early
2017 will be housed in a new, purpose-built
Graduate Centre on our Mile End campus)
oversees the lifecycle of your PhD, supporting
you through your application, enrolment, the
development of your research, submission of
your thesis, and on to the next steps of your
career.
Working in partnership with different teams
across the university, the Doctoral College
team will help you make the most of the
wide variety of training and development
opportunities available at QMUL, offer
advice on funding and also provide
financial support for research activities.
32 ph.qmul.ac.uk
Through all of these activities, the Doctoral
College aims to ensure the highest possible
standards of research support and training for
all of our PhD students, promoting pioneering
research and ensuring you’ll be equipped with
the skills you’ll need to become a successful
independent researcher upon graduation,
whether in academia or beyond.
In the meantime, the positive community of
the Doctoral College and the collaborative
research environment that it fosters help to
make QMUL a uniquely productive place for
postgraduate study.
For further information about
PhD study at QMUL, please see:
qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/research
QMULGRADFEST
The Doctoral College holds an annual
Graduate Festival – GradFest. It’s an
excellent opportunity to present work,
meet other researchers and share ideas.
Visit qmulgradfest.wordpress.com or see
@QMUL_DC
“I think that QMUL has the best of
both worlds for a student in London.
You have easy access to the city
and all of the things that it offers
but, at the same time, you have a
compact social campus to study in.
“This means that you still feel a
real sense of identity as a Queen
Mary student”
Luke Maynard, PhD student
The Doctoral College team will be based
in QMUL’s new Graduate Centre, due to
open in early 2017 (Artist’s impression)
ph.qmul.ac.uk 33
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
How to apply
Astronomy and Astrophysics PgCert
Students wishing to take the Astronomy and
Astrophysics PgCert should normally have
a degree (or equivalent) in a subject with
a substantial physics, mathematics and/or
astronomy content.
For information on how to apply for PhD
programmes see page 23.
Research degrees
The normal entry requirement for a PhD is
the equivalent of a British first class honours
BA/BSc/BEng in physics or a related subject,
or a more advanced qualification such as
MSci, MMath or MSc/MA. Candidates may
be invited to interview. Non-native English
speakers are required to have a minimum of
IELTS 6.5 or its equivalent.
Applications for taught postgraduate
programmes should be should be made
online at: qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/
howtoapply
Entry requirements
Physics MSc
Students for the Physics MSc (three
pathways) require at least an upper second
class honours degree in physics or a
closely related discipline. In exceptional
circumstances students may be admitted
with a lower second class degree (although
students with a lower second class degree
will not be considered for the Theoretical
Physics stream).
Physics (EuroMasters) MSc
Entry to the EuroMasters requires a minimum
of an upper second class honours degree
in physics, or its equivalent. Direct entry to
the second year of the programme requires
students to have achieved the equivalent of a
postgraduate diploma in physics at a SEPnet
partner. Entry to either year is subject to the
availability of appropriate courses and/or
projects and the suitability of the applicant
for the intended programme.
Astrophysics MSc
Students wishing to take the Astrophysics
MSc should normally have a first or second
class honours degree (or equivalent)
in a subject with substantial physics,
mathematics and/or astronomy content.
34 ph.qmul.ac.uk
English language requirements
For detailed English language entry
requirements for all of our programmes,
including individual component scores, please
see: qmul.ac.uk/international/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirements
Contact us
For more information about our
physics and astronomy programmes:
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 6958
email: physics@qmul.ac.uk
ph.qmul.ac.uk
For general admissions enquiries
for taught masters programmes:
Freephone: 0800 376 1800
From outside the UK: +44 (0)20 7882 5533
email: admissions@qmul.ac.uk
For general admissions enquiries
for research degree programmes:
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 2207/5860
email: researchadmissions@qmul.ac.uk
NEXT STEPS
CHOOSE
YOUR
PROGRAMME
Visit qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate to find
out more about the programme you’re
interested in.
Check you meet the entry requirements.
Note: if you’re an international student
English language requirements also apply.
Visit qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/
funding for more information on
scholarships and studentships that
you may be eligible for – remember
some funds have separate
applications, so check the deadlines
as early as possible.
GET IN
CONTACT
CHECK
YOUR
FUNDING
OPTIONS
International students need
to show evidence of having
funds for tuition fees and living
costs. Visit: welfare.qmul.ac.uk/
international/money for more
information.
We want you to be sure about your
application and welcome informal enquiries.
If you wish to discuss any aspect of the
programme, School, or university before
submitting your application, please contact:
physics@qmul.ac.uk
MEET US
We organise campus tours throughout the year –
book a place at qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/meet-us
Our Postgraduate Open
Evenings on campus allow
you to meet students and
academics: qmul.ac.uk/
pgopenevening
SUBMIT
YOUR
APPLICATION
ONLINE
If you can’t make it to us
in person, we also hold
virtual events: qmul.ac.uk/
postgraduate/virtualopenday
You can apply directly online at qmul.ac.uk/
postgraduate/howtoapply. While there are no
set deadlines, we advise you to apply as early
as possible to make sure your application is
considered and to take advantage of any funding
opportunities.
ph.qmul.ac.uk 35
INTERNATIONAL
AND EU STUDENTS
QMUL has a cosmopolitan
postgraduate community, with
students from over 155 countries
making a valuable and active
contribution to academic and social
life. Wherever you are from, you will
find a very warm welcome at our
university.
QMUL International Office
Members of staff at QMUL regularly make
visits overseas to meet students and their
families.
To see when we will be visiting your region or
for more information on any aspect of life at
QMUL, see: qmul.ac.uk/international/events
Contact us
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 6530
email: internationaloffice@qmul.ac.uk
qmul.ac.uk/international
Representatives in your country
In many countries, we work with
representatives who you can visit to discuss
applying to QMUL. Contact details can be
found at: qmul.ac.uk/international/countries
Entry requirements
Each application received at QMUL is
evaluated on a case-by-case basis. We look
at your qualifications and compare them
with UK equivalents, the institution you have
attended, and any relevant work experience.
You can find detailed country-specific entry
requirements here: qmul.ac.uk/international/
countries
36 ph.qmul.ac.uk
Support for international
and EU students
We offer a range of support services to help
you feel at home:
Airport collection
New international and EU students are offered
a free airport collection service before the start
of term in September 2017. This service and
an online booking form will be advertised on
our website: qmul.ac.uk/prearrival
International Welcome Programme
Our Welcome Programme is available
for all new international and EU students and
runs before the start of term in September
2017. This is an opportunity to meet other
overseas students studying a variety of
programmes and get practical advice about
living and studying in London.
Advice and counselling
The Advice and Counselling Service
offers professional advice specifically
for international and EU students. They
can advise you on finance and funding,
Tier 4 Entry Clearance, Tier 4 extensions,
immigration problems, UK work schemes
after study, and offer counselling support for
personal issues such as homesickness. For
further details, see: welfare.qmul.ac.uk
Healthcare
There is a Student Health Service on campus.
For more details on accessing the NHS as
an international or EU student, please visit:
studenthealth.qmul.ac.uk.
Living costs
International students will need to show
evidence of having at least £11,385 (based
on 2016 guidance) for living costs plus 100
per cent of your tuition fees in order to obtain
Entry Clearance under Tier 4 of the UK Visas
and Immigration’s points-based system of
immigration. Additional amounts need to be
shown for dependants. £11,385 is based on
nine months of study (at £1,265 per month)
and is an immigration requirement only –
most students require more money than
this for 12 months’ living costs – normally
around £15,000. For further information, visit:
welfare.qmul.ac.uk/international/money
Scholarships
We want to attract the best students to QMUL.
In recognition of the important investment
that international students are making in their
education, we are pleased to offer a range of
scholarships to reward outstanding academic
achievement. For more information, visit:
qmul.ac.uk/international/feesfinance
English language requirements
If your first language is not English, you must
provide evidence that your English skills are
sufficient by including details of recognised
language qualifications with your application.
If you are an international applicant, you
are strongly advised to review the language
requirements for your specific degree. It is
likely that you will need to take the academic
IELTS (International English Language Testing
Service) test, though you do not necessarily
need to submit the results at the point of
application. IELTS results can be sent to us at
a later date and once you have received an
offer to study. QMUL’s minimum requirement
for postgraduates is an IELTS score of 6.5;
however, a number of our courses require a
higher score. For detailed English language
entry requirements for all of our programmes,
including individual component scores, see:
qmul.ac.uk/international
English language summer programmes
(pre-sessional programmes)
From June to September, we arrange a
series of English language programmes for
students who wish to improve their proficiency
in English before starting university. The
programme aims to improve your listening,
speaking, reading, and writing skills; teach
study skills such as note-taking, academic
writing, and seminar participation; develop
skills essential to working independently;
and to introduce you to life in Britain. We
encourage independent work and use of
English by setting individual projects. QMUL
academic staff and other visiting lecturers
will give a series of lectures. We provide
some residential accommodation on summer
programmes in our halls of residence. Find
out more at: language-centre.sllf.qmul.ac.uk/
presessionals
ph.qmul.ac.uk 37
INTERNATIONAL
AND EU STUDENTS
In-sessional English language support
The Language Centre runs a series of insessional English programmes in academic
writing, grammar and vocabulary, lecture
comprehension and seminar skills, and
general English during the main teaching
periods of the academic year. These are free
of charge. Find out more at: language-centre.
sllf.qmul.ac.uk/in-sessionals
Study support
The Learning Development team at QMUL
helps students across the university become
more effective in their academic work. They
can help with aspects of study such as
reading effectively, writing, exam technique,
revision, note-taking, time management,
critical thinking, avoiding plagiarism,
presentation skills and group work. There
are one-to-one tutorials, drop-ins, retreats
and various workshops throughout the year.
The team also hosts the Royal Literary Fund
(RLF) Writing Fellows. For more information
on the range of services available and to
book a tutorial or workshop, please visit:
learningdevelopment.qmul.ac.uk
English Language and Study Skills Office
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 2827
email: elss@qmul.ac.uk
language-centre.sllf.qmul.ac.uk
38 ph.qmul.ac.uk
INTERNATIONAL ALUMNI PROFILE: Intesar Zalloum
Studied: Physics (Particle Physics) MSc
What attracted you to the MSc at QMUL? Queen Mary University of London is a research-led university, meaning
that as a postgraduate physics student you benefit from the knowledge and skills of internationally renowned
academics who are committed to training the next generation of physicists.
One of the most critical and influential aspects of my experience at QMUL was the ever-present sense of
community. The School of Physics and Astronomy, in particular, created an inviting and inspiring environment
in which I could grow and take advantage of opportunities I had not previously envisioned.
Additionally, the vast amount of assistance available helped me obtain a complete grasp of each physics course
I took. With its excellent, well-rounded programme, QMUL helped me build the tools, experience, and confidence
necessary to succeed in my career as a particle physicist.
What are you doing now?
My MSc at QMUL was an excellent way to enrich and advance my teaching and research career. Immediately
following the completion of my MSc with distinction, I was given a Physics Instructor position at the Palestine
Polytechnic University.
My MSc has paved the way for me to pursue a PhD in particle physics or cross over into the medical field, in
which I can serve as a medical physicist in medical imaging or medical accelerators.
ph.qmul.ac.uk 39
OUR HOME
IN EAST LONDON
London – the world’s favourite
destination
With festivals, libraries, museums, shops,
Royal Parks and nightlife, it is no surprise
that London is one of the most popular
cities in the world to be a student. As the
political, cultural and business centre of the
UK, London attracts people and talent from
across the globe. Our students have the
opportunity to engage with an unparalleled
array of academic resources, including
a wealth of world-renowned libraries,
museums and research institutes on their
doorstep. With a population of around eight
million and with more than 100 languages
spoken, the people of London represent
cultures from every corner of the earth. It’s a
welcoming city, and to become a Londoner
all you need to do is live here.
Where we are – an oasis in a busy city
When thinking about where to study, you
are often faced with a choice between city
or campus life. QMUL can offer the best of
both: a friendly, self-contained residential
campus in the capital. We are close to
Shoreditch and Brick Lane, the financial
centres of Canary Wharf and the City, and
only 15 minutes on the Tube from Oxford
Circus. On campus there’s plenty of greenery
and attractive outdoor spaces, and with the
familiar rhythms of student life, it’s easy to
forget that you’re in the middle of a bustling
capital city.
40 ph.qmul.ac.uk
East London – the place to be
Next to the City of London, east of the
medieval walls that marked the city’s original
boundaries, you’ll find the East End – a
captivating place, with a rich history, vibrant
cultural scene, and a sense of community
all of its own, which we are lucky to be able
to call home. The East End is one of the
most rapidly changing parts of the capital,
combining the best of old and new. Cycle
10 minutes from our campus, for example,
and you’ll find the world-class sports facilities
of the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. In
east London, you could take a turn down a
residential street and stumble across a rare
mural by graffiti legend Banksy, a hidden
garden square, or an atmospheric Victorian
pub serving good food. There’s always
something new to discover.
ph.qmul.ac.uk 41
OUR HOME
IN EAST LONDON
Great shopping
While one of Europe’s biggest indoor
shopping centres is based just one Tube
stop away at Stratford, the east of London is
particularly famous for its open-air markets
and alternative shopping scene. Brick Lane,
for example, offers Sunday stalls where great
food from all over the world sits alongside
stands of imaginative clothing, vintage
furniture and bric-a-brac.
Here are some of the highlights of living in the
East End:
Amazing restaurants
Here are some of the highlights
of living in the East End:
Amazing restaurants
The cultural variety of the East End is
reflected in the range of restaurants on
offer. One street can represent food from
all over the world, and there are some great
restaurants close to our campuses. Exploring
the streets surrounding Mile End Park, such
as Burdett Road, will reveal Bangladeshi,
Indian, Arabic, Italian and Chinese
restaurants, to name a few. If you like to step
out of the tried and tested, Shoreditch is
known for culinary innovations such as the
infamous Cereal Killer cereal café.
The cultural variety of the East End is reflected
in the range of restaurants on offer. One street
can represent food from all over the world,
and there are some great restaurants close
to campus. Exploring the streets surrounding
Mile End Park, such as Burdett road, will
reveal Bangladeshi, Indian, Arabic, Italian and
Chinese restaurants to name a few. If you like
to step out of the tried and tested, Shoreditch
is known for culinary innovations such as the
infamous Cereal Café (Cereal Killer).
Great shopping
Perhaps the worst that can be said about
shopping in the East End is that there’s simply
too much choice, from charity shops to one
of Europe’s biggest indoor shopping centres
in Stratford. The East of London is particularly
famous for its open-air markets, like Brick
Lane’s Sunday stalls, where great food from
all over the world sits alongside stands of
imaginative clothing, vintage furniture and
bric-a-brac.
Culture scene
East London easily has the most vibrant
cultural scene in the city. The music, art,
and history of the region create a potent and
exciting mix. If you’re a fan of art, several
galleries in the area are celebrated for
their interesting and unique exhibitions ¬Whitechapel Gallery is particularly popular.
You don’t even have to go indoors to see some
of the most iconic art of the East End - famed
42 ph.qmul.ac.uk
Eclectic nightlife
Whether you’re after a drink with friends,
a late movie or a club night, you’ll find
something to suit your mood around
campus. The area around Shoreditch has
grown to represent an alternative experience
to the formulaic bars of the West End, while
local cinemas, like Genesis, and coffee
shops are a lot less packed than those in the
centre. Modern clubs, such as Cargo or the
Hoxton Pony, sit alongside hundred-year-old
pubs like The Old Blue Last, creating an
eclectic and colourful mix.
Cultural scene
East London easily has the most vibrant
cultural scene in the city. The music, art,
and history of the area create a potent
and exciting mix. If you’re a fan of art,
several local galleries are celebrated for
their interesting and unique exhibitions –
Whitechapel Gallery is particularly popular.
You don’t even have to go indoors to see
some of the most iconic art of the East End
– famed graffiti murals dot the streets of
Hackney, Whitechapel and Shoreditch. East
London is also renowned for the number of
musicians, artists and actors that started out
or grew up in the area.
ph.qmul.ac.uk 43
ACCOMMODATION
QMUL students come to us from
across the UK and all over the world.
Our campuses are communities in
their own right and bring together
students from many disciplines to
study and socialise.
We offer approximately 500 spaces
specifically for postgraduate students. The
majority of these are at our Mile End campus
but there are also spaces for medicine and
dentistry students at our Charterhouse Square
and Whitechapel campuses.
For full details, virtual tours and prices,
visit: residences.qmul.ac.uk/college/
qmaccommodation
Applying for our accommodation
Once you accept your place to study here, full
details on how to apply for halls will be sent to
you. QMUL’s housing is very popular and we
suggest you apply as early as possible.
For housing deadlines and eligibility, visit:
residences.qmul.ac.uk/college/application
What is my accommodation likely
to cost?
These guideline prices quoted are for the
academic year 2016/17. Rent is payable
termly in advance:
• Mile End campus – rents for single rooms
range from £127 (with a shared bathroom) to
£179 (with an en-suite) per week, including
all utility costs, insurance and Wi-Fi.
44 ph.qmul.ac.uk
•C
harterhouse Square and Whitechapel
campuses – rents for single rooms range
from £127–£163 per week, including all
utility costs and Wi-Fi.
We have a very limited number of spaces for
families at our Whitechapel campus. See:
residences.qmul.ac.uk/college/family
We review our rents annually. Current prices
can be found at: residences.qmul.ac.uk/
college/fees
•P
rivately rented accommodation – student
rents in the local area in shared flats and
houses typically range from £110–£160
per week. There are also a number of local
privately run student halls. Prices in these
purpose-built developments reflect the very
high standards of accommodation (most
being self-contained studios) and range
from £225 per week upwards.
Alternative housing options
We can provide specialist advice on a range
of alternative housing including renting a local
room or flat, finding a room in a privately built
hall of residence, or choosing a homestay or
short-stay option.
For further information, visit:
residences.qmul.ac.uk/alternative
For all accommodation queries,
contact us on:
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 6474
email: residences@qmul.ac.uk
residences.qmul.ac.uk
On our Mile End campus, it’s easy
to forget that you’re in the middle
of a bustling capital city
ph.qmul.ac.uk 45
A Postgraduate Open Evening in the
Octagon at our Mile End campus,
historically the university’s library
and now an event space
46 ph.qmul.ac.uk
MEET US
Campus tours
Around the UK
Postgraduate open events
International students
We organise campus tours throughout the year.
Restricted to small groups so that everyone has
the chance to ask questions, these informal
events are a great way to find out about living
and studying here. They normally last an hour
and you will be shown around by a current
student. To book your place, please visit: qmul.
ac.uk/postgraduate/meet-us
We hold a variety of postgraduate open
events at the Mile End campus. Each event is
different but usually includes the opportunity
to meet academics, see subject-specific
facilities, tour research and learning facilities,
and speak to our support services, including
the Careers and Enterprise team.
For more details and to book, please visit:
qmul.ac.uk/pgopenevening
Virtual events
We also hold virtual events during the year.
For dates, virtual tours of the campus,
videos and more, visit: qmul.ac.uk/
postgraduate/meet-us/virtualopenday
We visit local and national postgraduate
education fairs, conventions and events
across the country each year. Come along
to an event near you to find out more about
postgraduate study and student life with
us. For more information, please visit:
qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/meet-us/
around-the-uk
If you are from outside the UK, please see
our ‘Meet us overseas’ webpage for details
of where you can meet the International
Office over the coming year: qmul.ac.uk/
international/international-students/events
Open events for 2017 Entry
23 November 2016
Open Evening – PhD
18 January 2017
Virtual Open Day – Masters and PhD
15 February 2017
Open Evening – Masters and PhD
10 May 2017
Virtual Open Day – Masters and PhD
19 July 2017
Virtual Open Day – Masters and PhD
6 September 2017
Recruitment Event – Masters and PhD
ph.qmul.ac.uk 47
STUDENT SERVICES A–Z
Admissions
For general admissions enquiries for taught
masters programmes:
Freephone (UK callers only): 0800 376 1800
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 5533
email: admissions@qmul.ac.uk
Advice and Counselling Service
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 8717
email: welfare@qmul.ac.uk
welfare.qmul.ac.uk
Alumni
Development and Alumni Directorate
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 6468
email: alumni@qmul.ac.uk
qmul.ac.uk/alumni
Careers and Enterprise
Careers and Enterprise Centre
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 8533
email: careers@qmul.ac.uk
careers.qmul.ac.uk
Disability and Dyslexia Service
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 2756
Fax: +44 (0)20 7882 5223
email: dds@qmul.ac.uk
dds.qmul.ac.uk
Eating on campus
For details of all our venues,
please visit: catering.qmul.ac.uk
Entry requirements (research degrees)
For information, please see individual
subject areas:
qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/subjects
48 ph.qmul.ac.uk
Entry requirements (taught programmes)
For information, please see individual
programme listings:
qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/taught
For information about the entry requirements
for international students, please email:
internationaloffice@qmul.ac.uk
Equality and Diversity
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 5519
email: hr-equality@qmul.ac.uk
hr.qmul.ac.uk/equality
Faith
faith.qmul.ac.uk
Funding
Masters: qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/taught/
funding_masters
PhD: qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/
funding_phd
Health Service
Student Health Service
studenthealth.qmul.ac.uk
Housing Services
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 6474
email: residences@qmul.ac.uk
residences.qmul.ac.uk
International students
International Office
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 6530
email: internationaloffice@qmul.ac.uk
qmul.ac.uk/international/international-students
IT Services
IT Helpdesk
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 8888
email: its-helpdesk@qmul.ac.uk
its.qmul.ac.uk
Language Learning
The Language Centre
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 2826/2827
language-centre.sllf.qmul.ac.uk
Confucius Institute
email: confucius@qmul.ac.uk
Learning Development
email: learningdevelopment@qmul.ac.uk
learningdevelopment.qmul.ac.uk
Library
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 7311 (Mile End)
email: library@qmul.ac.uk
library.qmul.ac.uk
Occupational Health Service
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 8700
Fax: +44 (0)20 7882 7053
hr.qmul.ac.uk
Open Days
qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/meet-us
Residential support
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 5064
email: residential-support@qmul.ac.uk
Security
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 5000
security.qmul.ac.uk
Student Enquiry Centre
arcs.qmul.ac.uk/students/sec
Students’ Union
qmsu.org
Mature students
Head of Outreach and Widening Participation
Directorate of Marketing and Communications
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 3733
email: a.setright@qmul.ac.uk
Qmotion Health and Fitness Centre
qmsu.org/qmotion
Music
email: music@qmul.ac.uk
music.qmul.ac.uk
External organisations
The National Union of Students (NUS)
nus.org.uk
Nursery
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 2782/90
email: nursery@qmul.ac.uk
nursery.qmul.ac.uk
Student Central (University of London)
studentcentral.london
Advice and advocacy
qmsu.org/advice/academic
Sustainability
qmul.ac.uk/about/sustainability
ph.qmul.ac.uk 49
HOW TO FIND US
Whether you’re flying in from
overseas, travelling across the UK
or commuting across the city, our
campuses are in central and east
London, which means we are very
well connected to the capital’s
public transport system.
Here’s some key information
to help you find your way to us:
Mile End campus
(Faculties of Humanities and
Social Sciences and Science
and Engineering – main centre)
•Postcode: E1 4NS
•Nearest Tube: Stepney Green
(Hammersmith and City line and District
line) and Mile End (Central line); London
travel Zone 2
•Nearest mainline train stations: London
Liverpool Street, Stratford International
•Nearest Docklands Light Railway (DLR):
Limehouse or Bow Church
•Buses: nos. 25, 205, 339
•Cycling: located on Cycle Superhighway
2 (CS2); cycle parking on campus
50 ph.qmul.ac.uk
Student travel information
For information about discounted travel,
travel planning, the Santander bikesharing scheme and safety, please visit the
Transport for London (TfL) website:
tfl.gov.uk
To read more about cycling and
sustainability at QMUL, please visit:
qmul.ac.uk/about/sustainability/cycling
Students with disabilities
Students displaying an authorised blue
disabled sticker (who have applied for, and
received, a QMUL parking permit) can park
on campus. Our Disability and Dyslexia
Service are available to help: Tel: +44 (0)20
7882 2756.
Note: parking is not available at any
of our campuses for general visitors.
ph.qmul.ac.uk 51
MILE END CAMPUS
Mile End Campus
For more detailed campus information, see: qmul.ac.uk/about/howtofindus
Educational/Research
Residential
Facilities
ArtsOne
37
Albert Stern Cottages
ArtsTwo
35
Albert Stern House
Arts Research Centre
39
Beaumont Court
53
Bancroft Building
31
Chapman House
Chesney House
Bancroft Road
Teaching Rooms
10
Peter Landin Building
(Computer Science)
6
Engineering Building
15
G.E. Fogg Building
13
G.O. Jones Building
25
Geography
26
Informatics Teaching
Laboratories
41
Library
32
Law
36
Lock-keeper’s Cottage
42
Advice and Counselling Service
1
Housing Hub
48
Bookshop
22
43
Careers Centre
19
45
Clock Tower
20
Creed Court
57
CopyShop
56
France House
55
The Curve
47
Feilden House
46
Disability and Dyslexia Service
31
Hatton House
40
2
Ifor Evans Place
5
Joseph Priestley Building
Information
3
Lindop House
21
Lodge House
50
Lynden House
59
Maurice Court
58
Maynard House
44
Pooley House
27
Canalside
63
Ground Café
33
The Hive
24
Electronic cigarettes permitted
on outside spaces only.
These premises are alarmed
and monitored by CCTV;
please call Security on
+44 (0)20 7882 5000
for more information.
9
Infusion
IT Services
19
60
Mucci’s
29
Selincourt House
51
Varey House
49
Occupational Health Service/
Student Health Service
28
Key
Library/bookshop
4
Occupational Health
and Safety Directorate
12
The People’s Palace/Great Hall
16
Qmotion Health and Fitness Centre
Sports Hall
7
Queens’ Building
19
Santander Bank
Temporary Building
61
Security
Fitness centre
19a
Octagon
Refreshment:
Bar/Eatery/Coffee place
17
Portering and Postal Services
Staff car park
62
Bicycle parking
38/54
Bicycle lockers
St Benet’s Chaplaincy
23
Students’ Union Hub
34
19
Student Enquiry Centre
No access between Geography
Village Shop
18
Square and Bancroft Road before
Westfield Nursery
8am and after 6.30pm Mon–Fri.
No.64
no longer in use. Can be used for other locations. NS-10/2014
64No.14 and
Closed
weekends.
Bancroft Road
The smoking of cigarettes
or tobacco products are only
permitted at designated smoking
areas / shelters indicated on this
map.
AREA
8
Drapers’ Bar and Kitchen
Mathematical Sciences
New Graduate Centre
construction site
Engineering Building
construction site
Visitors who require further
information or assistance should
please go to the main reception
in the Queens’ Building.
Cash machine
Smoking area / shelter
AREA
52
11
Bradwell Street
60
Portelet Road
Massingham St
Leatherdale Street
Moody Street
Longnor Road
59
58
55
57
Holton Street
63
62
AREA
Bancroft Road
Grantley Street
Carlton Square
55
54
53
Mile End Hospital
52
51
48
Alderney Road
49
46
Geography
Square
17
29
46
56
19a
AREA
Library
Square
BL
6
8
Godward
Square
9
3
64
2
4
1
15
AREA
19
15
43
42
AREA
40
33
16
24
23
20
22
34
35
36
37
38
39
East Gate
Mile End Tube Station
Mile End Road
Harford St
52 ph.qmul.ac.uk
41
BL
44
Arts Quarter
West Gate
Stepney Green Tube Station
32
25
15
2
Nuevo
Burial
Ground
18
10
Bancroft Road
Mile End Place
5
7
45
The
Curve
Westfield Way
18
13
11
47
31
26
61
12
28
Regent’s Canal
50
27
18
21
1 Mile End campus
2 Whitechapel campus
3 Charterhouse Square campus
4 Lincoln’s Inn Fields campus
5 West Smithfield campus
LONDON TUBE MAP
ph.qmul.ac.uk 53
Taught programmes index
• Astrophysics MSc
14
• Astronomy and
Astrophysics PgCert
15
• Physics MSc (three pathways:
Theoretical Physics, Particle
Physics and Condensed
Matter Physics)
16
• Physics (EuroMasters) MSc
54 ph.qmul.ac.uk
18
Terms and conditions
We have endeavoured to ensure that the
information contained in this prospectus is
both helpful and accurate at the time of going
to press. There are circumstances in which
we may still make changes to the programmes
and services that we provide. For this reason, it
is important that you check our website (qmul.
ac.uk) for the most up-to-date information, or
contact us, using the details contained within
this document, before you apply.
We regularly update our programmes so that
students can learn from the latest academic
research and to make improvements in
dialogue with current students and employers.
Other circumstances that can lead to changes
include:
• changes of academic staff, which can lead
to new modules being offered and existing
modules being withdrawn
• new requirements from professional or
statutory bodies or
• changes to the way in which universities
and services are funded.
If you apply to us and we offer you a place to
study at QMUL, we will endeavour to deliver
your chosen programme as is advertised
when we make our offer of admission. For
this reason, it is important that you check our
website for the most up-to-date information,
or contact us using the details contained
within this document, before you accept
an offer. We will only suspend or withdraw
your chosen programme in exceptional
circumstances, such as if a key member
of academic staff or essential teaching
facilities become unavailable without warning.
Programmes may also be suspended where
the demand from applicants makes them
unviable. If we have to suspend or withdraw
your chosen programme after you accept
an offer, we will inform you at the earliest
opportunity and make every effort to provide
a suitable alternative.
For up-to-date descriptions of our programmes,
visit: qmul.ac.uk/postgraduate/coursefinder
Contact
Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road,
London E1 4NS qmul.ac.uk
We would like to thank the students who took part
in these photographs. Student and departmental
photography by Jorge Estevao (jdestevao.com),
Jonathan Cole (JonathanColePhotography.com), Honor
Elliot (honorelliottphotography.tumblr.com) and Layton
Thompson (laytonthompson.com).
Produced by Marketing and Communications,
Queen Mary University of London
This publication has been printed using
vegetable oil-based inks on environmentally
friendly material from sustainably managed
sources (from the Edixion paper range).
The eco-friendly low carbon printing
company is ISO 14001 accredited, and
operates a ‘cradle to grave’ environmental
management system, ensuring
environmental impact is minimised throughout every
aspect of print production. Key focus is placed upon
energy saving, reductions of chemicals and emissions,
water conservation, and waste minimisation.
ph.qmul.ac.uk 55
For further information contact:
School of Physics and Astronomy
Queen Mary University of London
Mile End Road
London E1 4NS
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 6958
email: physics@qmul.ac.uk
ph.qmul.ac.uk
Any section of this publication is
available in large print upon request.
If you require this publication in a
different accessible format we will
endeavour to provide this where
possible. For further information
and assistance, please contact:
hr-equality@qmul.ac.uk
Tel: +44 (0)20 7882 5585
PhysicsatQM
@PhysicsatQM