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Mathematical Physics PhD in Geometry, Quantum Field Theory, Gauge Theory and Gravity University of Edinburgh in United Kingdom
Degree Level
PhD
Field of study
Mathematics
Funding
Most PhD students in Mathematics receive full scholarships covering tuition fees and living costs. All applicants are automatically considered for studentship funding, subject to funder eligibility requirements. Other possible funding sources include scholarships, loans, family support, personal savings, employment income and employer sponsorship. Accommodation and living costs are separate; estimated living costs in Edinburgh for 2026–2027 are £18,504 per year (£1,542 per month).
Deadline
Dec 19, 2026
Country
United Kingdom
University
University of Edinburgh
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About this position
The University of Edinburgh is offering a Mathematical Physics PhD for 2027 entry through the Centre for Doctoral Training in Algebra, Geometry and Quantum Fields (AGQ). The programme is based in the School of Mathematics and is available full-time over four years or part-time over eight years, with an optional internship pathway.
Research spans mathematical and theoretical physics, including geometry, quantum field theory, gauge theory and gravity. Students may explore quantum gravity, black holes, cosmology, spacetime singularities, holography, gauge/gravity correspondence, supersymmetry, string theory, supergravity, algebraic geometry and integrable systems. Advanced computing methods and collaborations with academic, industrial and third-sector partners are also available.
Students join the Edinburgh Mathematical Physics Group, a multidisciplinary research community connected with the School of Mathematics, Heriot-Watt University and the Maxwell Institute. Research students receive primary and secondary supervision, dedicated workspace, software access and opportunities to use major computing facilities.
Applicants normally need a UK first-class honours degree or equivalent in an appropriate subject, or a UK 2:1 honours degree plus a master's degree, or relevant qualifications and experience. Applications require a personal statement, academic CV, references, transcripts, degree certificates and English-language evidence. Two references are required. IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in each component is among the accepted English qualifications.
Most Mathematics PhD students receive full scholarships covering tuition fees and living costs, and all applicants are automatically considered for studentship funding subject to eligibility. The application carries no fee. Applications for the 2027 intake close on 19 December 2026; the programme is expected to open for applications in October.
Funding details
Most PhD students in Mathematics receive full scholarships covering tuition fees and living costs. All applicants are automatically considered for studentship funding, subject to funder eligibility requirements. Other possible funding sources include scholarships, loans, family support, personal savings, employment income and employer sponsorship. Accommodation and living costs are separate; estimated living costs in Edinburgh for 2026–2027 are £18,504 per year (£1,542 per month).
What's required
Applicants need a UK first-class honours degree or international equivalent in an appropriate subject; alternatively, a UK 2:1 honours degree plus a UK master's degree, equivalent qualifications, or relevant qualifications and experience. Applications require a personal statement, relevant knowledge and training skills, an academic CV, and where applicable a research topic and details of published work. Applicants should provide degree certificates and academic transcripts, references, any known supervisor or advertised project details, evidence of meeting English-language requirements, and certified translations where applicable. Two references are required. English proficiency can be demonstrated through accepted tests or an eligible degree taught and assessed in English; stated test thresholds include IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with at least 6.0 in each component, or the specified equivalent qualifications.
How to apply
Applications are submitted through the Algebra, Geometry and Quantum Fields Centre for Doctoral Training (AGQ) website. Prepare the personal statement, academic CV, supporting documents, two references and English-language evidence, then apply through the AGQ portal before 19 December 2026 for 2027 entry.
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Make your next move.
Prepare your application
Review drafts and confirm requirements with the university.