About the Department of Physics, Astronomy and Maths

In the department of Physics, Astronomy and Mathematics we pride ourselves on creating exceptional opportunities for our students.

Choose us because

• we put our students first in everything we do from teaching to research
• we have our own excellent teaching observatory at Bayfordbury Campus
• we encourage all of our students to pursue careers in STEMM professions and support both the Juno project and the Athena SWAN Charter
• students have excellent one-year placement opportunities in the UK and abroad
• all of our degrees are accredited by the relevant professional bodies (Institute of Mathematics and its Applications or the Institute of Physics). Upon graduation you will be eligible for graduate membership to one of these bodies
• you will have access to some of the best teaching facilities in the UK, learn in small classes taught by practicing scientists and mathematicians, and explore for research and professional development in our laboratories or on outside placements.

Learning environment

• we have over 260 undergraduate and research students
• our degree courses provide the opportunity to work on real-life projects in industry or research before you graduate
• the department is actively involved in promoting public understanding of mathematics and science. The Royal Institution Mathematics Masterclasses is the most high profile of these activities, but we also hold open nights and short courses at the observatory and have a busy programme of visiting lecturers.

Research focus

• we have one of the largest astronomy research groups in the UK
• our physics research group is renowned for applying fundamental physics to real-world problems
• we have a strong mathematical physics research group, and our mathematics research also spans optimisation, algebra and its applications to theoretical computer science
• our research activity - which continually feeds into teaching - is very diverse, covering some of the most exciting topics in modern science, including the astrophysics of stars, galaxies and black holes, the new area of physics called quantum computing, atmospheric physics, climate change and modelling, measuring our impact on the atmosphere, and mathematical areas including financial modelling, amongst others.

Enterprise partnerships

• we work in partnership with industry and public sector and technical organisations on a range of initiatives, including contract research and consultancy. We have a record of success in applying our skills and expertise to specific practical problems
• our academic staff consult on a variety of mathematics and physics projects, but offer particular strengths in computational modelling, global optimisation and digital imaging. Visit the Research Database for information on areas of knowledge and skills within the University.

Powering potential

We drive economic growth and influence industry through research, innovative thinking and bespoke training that helps businesses achieve their potential.

Find out how we can support you