Relativity and Quantum Fields

Newcastle University Physics Department has a substantial research programme in quantum gravity, cosmology, field theory and related topics. Each year we aim to recruit two or three outstanding physics or mathematics PhD students to work in this field. Here is some information for students who might consider joining us.

Note: The relativity group Web server contains much more information about the group and its research activities.

The Programme

The mathematical physics group currently consists of two permanent staff, Dr Ian Moss and Dr David Toms, and seven PhD students. It is our policy to encourage a lively atmosphere in which all interesting new ideas in physics can receive attention.

At present the major topics of interest are as follows:

• Quantum cosmology and the origin of the universe:
• quantum models of the early universe and their interpretation
• quantum fluctuation in the early universe
• inflationary cosmology
• Foundational aspects of gravitational theory:
• solutions of Einstein's field equations for higher dimensional spacetimes
• black hole oscillations and black hole interiors
• Quantum field theory:
• quantum effects in higher dimensions and on brane worlds
• topological and boundary effects
• applications to Bose-Einstein condensation