4 Year Ph.D. Scholarship in Theoretical Physics (Condensed Matter Theory & Quantum Information Science) Maynooth University in Ireland

The Department of Physics at Maynooth University, located in Co. Kildare, Ireland, is offering a fully funded 4-year Ph.D. scholarship in Theoretical Physics, commencing September 2026. This prestigious opportunity is supported by Taighde Éireann–Research Ireland and is designed for highly motivated students interested in condensed matter theory and quantum information science. The successful candidate will join the newly established Heath Group, led by Dr. Joshuah Heath, which focuses on cutting-edge research in quantum materials, quantum simulatability, and quantum technology.

Research topics for the Ph.D. student may include many-body signatures of quantum spin liquids in magnonic transport, error-correction capabilities of many-body phases of matter, stability of topological phases under open system dynamics, and measurement-induced dynamics in fermionic quantum circuits. The specific research programme can be tailored to the student’s interests and technical strengths, providing a flexible and stimulating environment for academic growth.

The scholarship award covers a generous student stipend of €25,000 per annum, full annual tuition fees, and additional support for equipment, conference registration, training, and travel. The funding is guaranteed for 4 years, subject to satisfactory annual academic progression, with the programme running from September 1st, 2026 to August 2030.

Eligibility requirements include a first class or 2.1 honours (or equivalent) in a relevant primary degree, or a Master’s degree in physics by September 2026. Applicants with at least one paper on the arXiv in a related field will be given priority. Strong coding skills in Python, Julia, and/or C/C++ are expected, and candidates must meet the minimum English language requirements of Maynooth University.

Maynooth University is committed to equal opportunities and adheres to its institutional policies and regulations. Interested applicants should consult the full scholarship details and terms on the Maynooth University website. The application deadline is February 27th, 2026 at 23:59 GMT. This is an exceptional opportunity to advance your research career in a dynamic and supportive academic setting.