PhD Studentship in Gravitational Wave Cosmology: From Theory to Experiments Swansea University in United Kingdom

This PhD studentship at Swansea University offers an exceptional opportunity to conduct research at the intersection of gravitational wave physics and cosmology. The project is designed for motivated students eager to explore fundamental questions about the Early Universe and the dark sector, which together shape most of the cosmos we observe today. The research will involve developing and testing theoretical models, making quantitative predictions for gravitational-wave signals, and connecting theory with observational data from leading international collaborations.

Students will work closely with experienced faculty, including Professor Gianmassimo Tasinato and Dr. Azadeh Maleknejad, and will have the chance to engage with major international projects such as the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA), Einstein Telescope, Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO), and NANOGrav. This involvement will enable direct comparison of theoretical predictions with real data and participation in vibrant, international research teams at the forefront of discovery.

The studentship is open to UK and international applicants and is funded by the STFC. It covers full tuition fees and provides an annual stipend at the UKRI rate (£21,805 for 2026/27). Applicants must hold an undergraduate degree at 2.1 level or a master’s degree with a minimum overall grade at ‘Merit’ (or Non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University). English language proficiency is required: IELTS 6.5 overall (with no individual component below 6.0) or Swansea University recognised equivalent. Some applicants may need ATAS clearance, but this is not required for the scholarship application process. International and European applicants should check country-specific entry requirements.

The project start date is October 2026, with the possibility of a short deferral in exceptional circumstances. The research areas include data analysis, astronomy, astrophysics, computational physics, particle physics, space science, and theoretical physics. The successful candidate will gain high-level research training and build an international scientific profile in a rapidly advancing field.

To apply, candidates should use the provided FindAPhD link and ensure they meet all academic and English language requirements. For questions about eligibility, applicants can email [email protected] with the scholarship web-link. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to some of the most exciting questions in modern physics and become part of a dynamic research community at Swansea University.