phd in astrophysics in europe

Best Universities for Astrophysics and Astronomy in Europe

Updated: February 29, 2024

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Below is a list of best universities in Europe ranked based on their research performance in Astrophysics and Astronomy. A graph of 51M citations received by 1.97M academic papers made by 1,111 universities in Europe was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.

We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.

1. University of Cambridge

For Astrophysics and Astronomy

2. University of Oxford

3. Pierre and Marie Curie University

4. University College London

5. Imperial College London

6. Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich

7. Durham University

8. University of Manchester

9. Technical University of Munich

10. Leiden University

11. Heidelberg University - Germany

12. Moscow State University

13. University of Amsterdam

14. Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne

15. Catholic University of Leuven

16. University of Edinburgh

17. University of Groningen

18. Sapienza University of Rome

19. University of Southampton

20. Lund University

21. University of Padua

22. Delft University of Technology

23. Paris-Sud University

24. University of Bologna

25. Utrecht University

26. University of Liege

27. University of Munich

28. University of Bonn

29. University of Copenhagen

30. Claude Bernard University Lyon 1

31. Stockholm University

32. University of Geneva

33. University of Leicester

34. Karlsruhe Institute of Technology

35. Uppsala University

36. University of Vienna

37. University of Zurich

38. Aarhus University

39. University of Hamburg

40. University of Sheffield

41. University of Nottingham

42. University of Bristol

43. University of Helsinki

44. University of Leeds

45. University of Birmingham

46. University of Bern

47. Queen Mary University of London

48. Goethe University of Frankfurt am Main

49. University of Barcelona

50. University of Sussex

51. University of Glasgow

52. University of Oslo

53. Radboud University

54. Ruhr University Bochum

55. Grenoble Alpes University

56. University of Stuttgart

57. University of St Andrews

58. Polytechnic University of Milan

59. University of Cologne

60. University of Tubingen

61. KTH Royal Institute of Technology

62. University of Warwick

63. International School for Advanced Studies

64. University of Warsaw

65. University of Pisa

66. University of Erlangen Nuremberg

67. Chalmers University of Technology

68. Paul Sabatier University - Toulouse III

69. Paris Diderot University

70. University of Valencia

71. Polytechnic University of Bari

72. Autonomous University of Madrid

73. Free University of Brussels

74. Free University of Berlin

75. University of Florence

76. Technical University of Berlin

77. Technical University of Denmark

78. Complutense University of Madrid

79. RWTH Aachen University

80. Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz

81. University of Milan

82. Eindhoven University of Technology

83. Ghent University

84. Kiel University

85. Polytechnic School

86. University of Basel

87. Vienna University of Technology

88. University of Exeter

89. University of Liverpool

90. University of Lisbon

91. King's College London

92. University of Freiburg

93. Cardiff University

94. University of Gottingen

95. Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines University

96. Technical University of Catalonia

97. Aristotle University of Thessaloniki

98. University of La Laguna

99. St. Petersburg State University

100. University of Bordeaux

Physics subfields in Europe

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Department of Astrophysics

Quicklinks und sprachwechsel, main navigation, phd programme in theoretical astrophysics and cosmology, graduate school for theoretical astrophysics and cosmology.

This program is available as a doctoral Program in Physics at the University of Zürich. For an admission to this PhD program you have to meet certain criteria concerning your education in Physics, Astronomy, or related fields (e.g., 4~5 years up to Master’s degree) but it is also essential that you inform yourself in advance about open PhD positions in one of our research groups . You should submit to the group leader of your interest a CV, a statement of research interests and previous research experience, course grade transcripts and letters of reference.

The doctoral program in astrophysics is focused on carrying out original research and is completed within three to four years (full-time). The salary will easily allow you to cover all local living expenses including all the necessary social and health insurances. Research topics range from the formation of planets, stars and galaxies, to understanding the large scale structure of the universe, dark matter and dark energy. The program includes a curricular part for which doctoral students must obtain at least 12 ECTS credits. These can be obtained in a variety of ways, such as by attending graduate schools, giving talks at conferences or by attending advanced lectures. Appropriate lecture courses will be chosen by the PhD advisor together with the doctoral student. Doctoral students attend weekly research seminars, the “astrophysics journal club” and “astrophysical thinking”.

Official PhD regulations for the Theoretical Astrophysics and Cosmology progeram: PDF EN / PDF DE

Link to the Regulations Governing PhD Studies at the MNF

Open PhD positions are advertised here.

Admissions to Promotion - Useful links and documents:

Admission to Doctoral Studies at the University of Zurich

Factsheet Admission to a PhD Program at the Department of Astrophysics (PDF, 621 KB)

Checklist for PhD students

"Confirmation of Supervision for Doctoral Students" (PDF, 242 KB)

"Acceptance Confirmation Structured Doctoral Program" (PDF, 225 KB) Annual committee meeting minutes (PDF, 1 MB)

Confirmation Sheet - TA Hours (PDF, 224 KB)

Fact sheet PhD Defence (EN) / Merkblatt (DE)

The Fast Track

In some cases we allow talented students in a Master's course in Physics to directly enter the PhD program ("Fast Track"). This means that the student can use his or her research results for the Master's thesis as part of their PhD thesis, and any credit points obtained during the Master course in addition to the minimum of 90 can be transferred to the Doctoral Program program. See Fast Track in MSc section

Program Director Prof. Dr. Jaiyul Yoo [email protected]

Alternatively, use our A–Z index

Attend an open day

Discover more about postgraduate research

PhD Astronomy and Astrophysics / Overview

Year of entry: 2024

• View full page

The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent) OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master’s degree at merit in a discipline directly relevant to the PhD (or international equivalent).

Other combinations of qualifications and research or work experience may also be considered. Please contact the admissions team to check.

Full entry requirements

Apply online

In your application you’ll need to include:

• The name of this programme
• Your research project title (i.e. the advertised project name or proposed project name) or area of research
• Your proposed supervisor’s name
• If you already have funding or you wish to be considered for any of the available funding
• A supporting statement (see 'Advice to Applicants' for what to include)
• Details of your previous university level study
• Names and contact details of your two referees.

Programme options

Programme description

The  Department of Physics and Astronomy at Manchester is one of the largest and most active physics departrments in the UK. We have a long tradition of excellence in both teaching and research, and have interests in most areas of contemporary research.

The Department has a strong presence in a number of Manchester-based centres for multidisciplinary research: The National Graphene Institute, the Photon Science Institute, the Manchester Centre for Non-Linear Dynamics, and the Dalton Nuclear Institute. In addition, the Jodrell Bank Observatory in Cheshire is a part of the department.

Research in the Jodrell Bank Centre for Astrophysics covers a wide range of fields in astronomy, astrophysics and technology development. Operating the 76-m Lovell telescope and e-Merlin National Facility at the Jodrell Bank Observatory , and hosting the UK ALMA regional centre, as well as strong links with the Square Kilometre Array telescope, the JBCA has extensive expertise in observational radio and mm observational astronomy. We are engaged in world-leading research activities in observational, theoretical and experimental projects within the fields of cosmology, pulsar astronomy, time-domain astrophysics, galactic and stellar astrophysics, solar physics, and instrument development.

For more information about research themes within the department please visit our themes page or view available projects within the department on our Postgraduate Research projects page . 

For entry in the academic year beginning September 2024, the tuition fees are as follows:

• PhD (full-time) UK students (per annum): Band A £4,786; Band B £7,000; Band C £10,000; Band D £14,500; Band E £24,500 International, including EU, students (per annum): Band A £28,000; Band B £30,000; Band C £35,500; Band D £43,000; Band E £57,000
• PhD (part-time) UK students (per annum): Band A £2393; Band B £3,500; Band C £5,000; Band D £7,250; Band E 12,250 International, including EU, students (per annum): Band A £14,000; Band B £15,000; Band C £17,750; Band D £21,500; Band E £28,500

Further information for EU students can be found on our dedicated EU page.

The programme fee will vary depending on the cost of running the project. Fees quoted are fully inclusive and, therefore, you will not be required to pay any additional bench fees or administration costs.

All fees for entry will be subject to yearly review and incremental rises per annum are also likely over the duration of the course for Home students (fees are typically fixed for International students, for the course duration at the year of entry). For general fees information please visit the postgraduate fees page .

Always contact the Admissions team if you are unsure which fees apply to your project.

Scholarships/sponsorships

There are a range of scholarships, studentships and awards at university, faculty and department level to support both UK and overseas postgraduate researchers.

To be considered for many of our scholarships, you’ll need to be nominated by your proposed supervisor. Therefore, we’d highly recommend you discuss potential sources of funding with your supervisor first, so they can advise on your suitability and make sure you meet nomination deadlines.

For more information about our scholarships, visit our funding page or use our funding database to search for scholarships, studentships and awards you may be eligible for.

Contact details

Our internationally-renowned expertise across the School of Natural Sciences informs research led teaching with strong collaboration across disciplines, unlocking new and exciting fields and translating science into reality.  Our multidisciplinary learning and research activities advance the boundaries of science for the wider benefit of society, inspiring students to promote positive change through educating future leaders in the true fundamentals of science. Find out more about Science and Engineering at Manchester .

Programmes in related subject areas

Use the links below to view lists of programmes in related subject areas.

• Physics and Astronomy
• Astronomy and Astrophysics

Regulated by the Office for Students

The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website .

You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website .

• Schools & departments

Astrophysics PhD

Awards: PhD

Study modes: Full-time

Funding opportunities

Programme website: Astrophysics

Discovery Day

Join us online on 21st August to learn more about postgraduate study at Edinburgh.

Find out more and register

Research profile

Based at the historic Royal Observatory Edinburgh, the Institute for Astronomy (IfA) is one of the world’s leading centres in astronomical research.

We share our picturesque base on Blackford Hill with the UK Astronomy Technology Centre (ATC) – the UK’s leading astronomical instrument maker – so as a postgraduate student you will be joining a vibrant community of specialists.

The scope of our research is as wide as the cosmos we explore. Thanks to our affiliation with the UK ATC and our strong links with related research centres in the School of Physics & Astronomy, we are in a rare position to accommodate a diversity of research specialisms.

Our current areas of research include:

• cosmology (large-scale structure in the universe, galaxy formation, dark matter and dark energy)
• active galactic nuclei and related objects
• nearby galaxies (large-scale star formation, structure, content and evolution of galaxies)
• stellar astronomy (parallax and proper motion studies, the stellar luminosity function, symbiotic stars)
• star formation (observation and theoretical studies, star formation in external galaxies)
• planet formation (disc and planet formation in protostars, discs around pre-main-sequence stars)
• computational astrophysics (through the Edinburgh Centre for Computational Astrophysics)

Training and support

Our students undertake thesis-related research from the outset, but in parallel with structured education in relevant background knowledge.

In the first year there is a reading group that covers the basics of astrophysics in a series of tutorials. Also during this year, you will take a variety of advanced courses in physics and astrophysics, as advised by your supervisor. These courses are part of the graduate school of the Scottish Universities Physics Alliance (SUPA).

• Scottish Universities Physics Alliance (SUPA)

Not only will you be surrounded by a wealth of expertise at the Royal Observatory, but our historic setting also provides a constant reminder of the importance of astronomical advances throughout the centuries.

Observational PhDs have access to large telescopes in Australia, Hawaii, Chile and the Canary Islands, plus the Hubble Space Telescope.

Career opportunities

Graduates from the Institute for Astronomy are among the most highly sought-after candidates for academic and commercial positions. Your degree will see you well placed to take up a rewarding role that applies your knowledge to the advancement of astrophysics.

Entry requirements

These entry requirements are for the 2024/25 academic year and requirements for future academic years may differ. Entry requirements for the 2025/26 academic year will be published on 1 Oct 2024.

A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in astronomy, physics, or astrophysics.

International qualifications

Check whether your international qualifications meet our general entry requirements:

• Entry requirements by country
• English language requirements

Regardless of your nationality or country of residence, you must demonstrate a level of English language competency at a level that will enable you to succeed in your studies.

English language tests

We accept the following English language qualifications at the grades specified:

• IELTS Academic: total 6.5 with at least 6.0 in each component. We do not accept IELTS One Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements.
• TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition): total 92 with at least 20 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.
• C1 Advanced ( CAE ) / C2 Proficiency ( CPE ): total 176 with at least 169 in each component.
• Trinity ISE : ISE II with distinctions in all four components.
• PTE Academic: total 62 with at least 59 in each component.

Your English language qualification must be no more than three and a half years old from the start date of the programme you are applying to study, unless you are using IELTS , TOEFL, Trinity ISE or PTE , in which case it must be no more than two years old.

Degrees taught and assessed in English

We also accept an undergraduate or postgraduate degree that has been taught and assessed in English in a majority English speaking country, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration:

• UKVI list of majority English speaking countries

We also accept a degree that has been taught and assessed in English from a university on our list of approved universities in non-majority English speaking countries (non-MESC).

• Approved universities in non-MESC

If you are not a national of a majority English speaking country, then your degree must be no more than five years old* at the beginning of your programme of study. (*Revised 05 March 2024 to extend degree validity to five years.)

Find out more about our language requirements:

• Academic Technology Approval Scheme

If you are not an EU , EEA or Swiss national, you may need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme clearance certificate in order to study this programme.

Fees and costs

Tuition fees.

Scholarships and funding

Featured funding.

• Research Council Studentships
• Research scholarships for international students
• University/School funded studentships

UK government postgraduate loans

If you live in the UK, you may be able to apply for a postgraduate loan from one of the UK’s governments.

The type and amount of financial support you are eligible for will depend on:

• your programme
• the duration of your studies
• your tuition fee status

Programmes studied on a part-time intermittent basis are not eligible.

• UK government and other external funding

Other funding opportunities

Search for scholarships and funding opportunities:

• Search for funding

Further information

• Graduate School Administrator
• Phone: +44 (0)131 650 5812
• Contact: [email protected]
• School of Physics & Astronomy
• James Clerk Maxwell Building
• Peter Guthrie Tait Road
• The King's Buildings Campus
• Programme: Astrophysics
• School: Physics & Astronomy
• College: Science & Engineering

Select your programme and preferred start date to begin your application.

PhD Astronomy - 3 Years (Full-time)

Application deadlines.

We encourage you to apply at least one month prior to entry so that we have enough time to process your application. If you are also applying for funding or will require a visa then we strongly recommend you apply as early as possible.

• How to apply

You must submit two references with your application.

Find out more about the general application process for postgraduate programmes:

Department of Physics | Lund Observatory

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PhD programme

Postgraduate studies are a vital part of the Department's research activities. The PhD students work in close collaboration with their supervisors and colleagues in small research groups, which very often are parts of much larger international collaborations. Travels to conferences and visits to other institutes or observatories are natural ingredients of the education. Many of our postgraduate students continue their academic careers, after completing their PhDs, as postdocs at astronomical institutes abroad.

• Astronomy and Astrophysics, new syllabus (PDF, 579 kB, opens in a new tab)

Eligibility

Briefly, to be eligible for PhD studies in Astronomy and Astrophysics the student should either have a degree at advanced (MSc) level, or four years (240 credits) of university studies including one year at advanced level, or the corresponding knowledge gained within or outside Sweden. The studies should include physics, mathematics, and/or the corresponding technical subjects as essential ingredients, as well as a degree project of at least 30 credits.

Admission to PhD studies requires that adequate financing exists for the student's salary (or similar) during the whole four-year period. Normally PhD positions are financed directly by the Department or by an external grant to the Department, e.g., from EU's Marie Curie programme or a Swedish funding agency. Once a student has been admitted to PhD studies, he or she receives a monthly scholarship or salary that is usually more than sufficient to cover the living expenses in Lund. PhD positions are only advertised when the relevant funding is available within the Department.

Openings for PhD studies in Astronomy and Astrophysics are advertised in our calendar, on the Faculty of Science page for vacant positions and on the Lund University page for vacancies.  We do not accept emailed applications. Typically about two such positions are advertised each year. There are no fixed dates at which the advertisements are posted, but it will always be at least three weeks before the deadline for applications.

• Vacant positions at Lund University
• Job openings at the Faculty of Science

PhD Courses

Courses at the PhD level are only available to PhD students, and cannot be included in a bachelor or masters degree. Some are taught together with advanced level courses, but under a different course code.

Note that these courses are not always given at a fixed schedule; contact the responsible teacher if you are interested.

• Dynamics of Planetary Systems NAAS001, 7.5hp
• Physics of Nebulae NAAS002, 7.5hp
• Statistical Tools in Astrophysics NAAS003, 7.5hp
• Topics in Theoretical Astrophysics NAS001F, 7.5hp
• Galactic Dynamics NAS002F, 7.5hp
• Milky Way as a Galaxy NAS003F, 7.5hp

COMPUTE Research School

COMPUTE is a research school focused on scientific discovery using computing in a wide sense. Membership is open to all PhD students and employees at the Faculties of Science, Medicine, and Engineering at Lund University.

• Courses on the COMPUTE website

Faculty-wide postgraduate courses and graduate schools

• Faculty-wide courses at the Faculty of Science website

More information

• Information about PhD studies at the Faculty of Science webpage
• Information about PhD studies Lund University webpage
• Information about academic integrity at the LU Libraries pages
• Lunds Doktorandkår (LDK - Lund Doctoral Student Union) webpage

Director of Graduate studies:

Göran Frank goran [dot] frank [at] nuclear [dot] lu [dot] se 046 - 222 76 35

Deputy directors

Thomas Bensby 046 - 222 7324 tbensby [at] astro [dot] lu [dot] se

Rikkert Frederix rikkert [dot] frederix [at] hep [dot] lu [dot] se

• All categories

Graduate School of Science

PhD candidates carry out a programme of independent research and additional (limited) course work, culminating in production of a PhD thesis in typically 4 years.

A detailed description of the research projects can be found on the website of the Leiden Observatory .

Requirements

Specific requirements of the PhD programme are determined in agreement with NOVA, the Netherlands Research School in Astronomy. The PhD candidates attend summer and/or winter schools, and actively participate in international meetings as a part of their training. Many of the research projects involve international collaborations. Working visits and observations trips may be required. The PhD thesis is written in English, the language commonly used in the research groups.

An MSc degree is required for admission to the PhD programme. If appropriate, the PhD project will be a continuation of an MSc research project. Every year, the Leiden Observatory has paid positions available for PhD candidates, that are filled on a merit basis.

A paid position includes limited assistance in undergraduate teaching. It may also be possible to enter the PhD programme with self-obtained grants. Grants must provide for costs of living and for a bench fee.

PhD Astrophysics

Call for applications for phd positions in astrophysics, solar physics, planetary science at mps in goettingen, germany..

SCIENCE-JOBS-DE - IMPRS PhD Positions in Solar System Science in Goettingen, Germany for a start in 2025 (Goettingen, Germany)

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DWIH website; next edition of DAAD and WISSNAMA newsletter; institutional partners (done)

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KASC/TASC mailing list

exoplanets, RAS, AFN, physikerinnen mailing lists

DMG mailing list

SCOSTEP Newsletter /mailing list

EAG: IMPRS PhD positions in Solar System Science

UK Solar Physics News

SCIENCE-JOBS-DE

AGU (15.8-15.9.): Solar System School: PhD Positions in Planetary Science

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AG Job Market /  Stellenbörse der AG ( pdf )

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Mastodon @[email protected]

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AAS - DPS: University of Göttingen / Solar System School

MPS de / MPS en / MPG de / MPG en

Euopean Association of Geochemistry - PhD positions in Solar System Science (Goettingen, Germany) (pdf)

Division for Planetary Science of the AAS - University of Göttingen

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MPG/en   MPG/de   MPS/en   MPS/de

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UK Solar News

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MPG en / MPG de / MPG@MPS en / MPG@MPS de

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EAS 1208: PhD Positions in Solar System Science at IMPRS Göttingen (Germany): Solar and stellar physics

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CFD-online: PhD International Max Planck Research School Solar System Science

IMPRS Goettingen Poster 2017 pdf

IMPRS Goettingen Poster 2017 jpg

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stellenwerk Uni Goettingen GOE-2017-08-23-136341: Promotionsstudium Astrophysik in International Max Planck Research School

stellenwerk Uni Goettingen GOE-2017-08-23-136341: Promotionsstudium Astrophysik PDF

DAAD: Solar System School - International Max Planck Research School for Solar System Science (PhD) • University of Göttingen • Germany

DWIH India: PhD Positions in Solar System Science in Germany - Call for applications

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PlanetaryNews.org: IMPRS PhD positions in Planetary Science at MPI Solar System

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IMPRS Goettingen

reddit r/Astronomy

The International Max Planck Research School on Astrophysics at the Ludwig Maximilians University Munich

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PhD in Astrophysics

We are the joint International Max-Planck Research School (IMPRS) on Astrophysics of

• the Max Planck Institute for Extraterrestrial Physics (MPE)
• the Max Planck Institute for Astrophysics (MPA)
• the University Observatory Munich at the Ludwig Maximilians University (LMU/USM)
• the European Southern Observatory (ESO)

Together, we form one of the largest centers of astrophysical research in the world, covering every subject from planets, stars, and galaxies to cosmology. Access to the world's largest telescopes and a stimulating scientific environment provide our students with the ideal conditions for their PhD research.

PhD Position Announcement

We are offering about 25 PhD positions for research topics in various fields of astrophysics with in the IMPRS program. The deadline to apply for IMPRS PhD positions is November 1 every year for the program starting in September of the following year.

Please apply now, for the program starting in September 2025. Application deadline is November 1, 2024. Deadline for the recommendation letters is November 1, 2024 too.

Quick Links

• The IMPRS Call 2023/24 is closed! In February we had our IMPRS Recruitment Workshop with 63 shortlisted applicants. There were many excellent presentations and we found suitable candidates for our program. This now concludes the 2023 application round. We look forward to welcoming the selected candidates to our program on September 1, 2024

• IMPRS Introductory Workshop 2023 Our Introductory Workshop for the new incoming IMPRS Students takes place September 5th-6th, 2023, MPE
• IMPRSsive Constellations: Bridging Heidelberg and Munich Astronomy IMPRS collaboration meeting with students from Heidelberg, June 20th 2023, MPE
• The IMPRS Call 2022 is closed! In February we had our recruitment workshop with the shortlisted applicants. There were many excellent presentations and we found suitable candidates for our program. This now concludes the 2022 application round. We look forward to welcoming the selected candidates to our program on September 1, 2023!

• IMPRS Introductory Workshop October 5, 2020

• We always take care of our students! Online meeting during "Corona times" with the new candidates, starting September 1st, 2020.

• IMPRS Excursion BMW Plant Tour September 17, 2019

• Introductory Workshop 2011

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Astronomy PhD

Key information.

• 7th  in the UK for our research environment in Physics in  REF 2021   (Times Higher Education)

Explore the extragalactic universe with our world-leading faculty. Our research interests focus on:

• testing cosmological models
• physics of the early universe
• large-scale structure: galaxy surveys and numerical simulations
• very high-redshift galaxies and reionisation
• galaxy formation and evolution.

Supercomputers and overseas telescopes – whether you’re a theoretical astronomer or work on an observational project, you’ll have access to world-leading facilities, international collaborations and a full combination of theoretical, numerical and observational techniques.

I study the largest objects in the cosmos – clusters of galaxies – to measure fundamental properties of the universe. It’s pretty magical! ” Sunayana Bargava Astronomy PhD

We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision. We’ll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities described in this prospectus. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to government or regulatory requirements, or unanticipated staff changes, we’ll let you know as soon as possible.

Masters and P h D events

Meet us on campus or online

Book your place

Entry requirements

• UK requirements
• International requirements

Please select your country from the list.

Philippines

Saudi Arabia

South Africa

South Korea

Switzerland

United Arab Emirates

My country is not listed

If your country is not listed, you need to contact us and find out the qualification level you should have for this course. Contact us

English language requirements

Ielts (academic).

Standard level (6.0 overall, including at least 6.0 in each component).

IELTS scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course.  Find out more about IELTS

We accept IELTS One Skills Retake.

We do not accept IELTS Online.

Check full details of our English Language requirements and find out more about some of the alternative English language qualifications listed below

Alternative English language qualifications

Proficiency tests, cambridge advanced certificate in english (cae).

169 overall, including at least 162 in each skill.

We would normally expect the CAE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.

You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test.  Find out more about Cambridge English: Advanced

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)

We would normally expect the CPE test to have been taken within two years before the start of your course.

You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test.  Find out more about Cambridge English: Proficiency

LanguageCert Academic SELT

Standard level (65 overall, including at least 65 in each component).

LanguageCert Academic SELT scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course.  Find out more about LanguageCert Academic SELT

We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres.

We do not accept the online version.  We also do not accept the non-SELT version.

LanguageCert International ESOL SELT

Standard level (International ESOL SELT B2 with a minimum of 36 in each component)

LanguageCert International ESOL scores are valid for two years from the test date. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about LanguageCert SELT

We only accept LanguageCert when taken at SELT Test Centres. We do not accept the online version.

Pearson PTE Academic

Standard level (59 overall, including at least 59 in all four skills)

PTE (Academic) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about Pearson (PTE Academic)

We do not accept the PTE Academic Online test.

TOEFL (iBT)

Standard level 80 overall, including at least 19 in Listening, 19 in Reading, 21 in Speaking, 21 in Writing.

TOEFL (iBT) scores are valid for two years from the test date. You cannot combine scores from more than one sitting of the test. Your score must be valid when you begin your Sussex course. Find out more about TOEFL (iBT)

We do not accept TOEFL (iBT) Home Edition.

The TOEFL Institution Code for the University of Sussex is 9166.

English language qualifications

As/a-level (gce).

Grade C or above in English Language.

Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE)/ AS or A Level: grade C or above in Use of English.

GCE O-level

Grade C or above in English.

Brunei/Cambridge GCE O-level in English:  grades 1-6.

Singapore/Cambridge GCE O-level in English:  grades 1-6.

GCSE or IGCSE

Grade C or above in English as a First Language (Grade 4 or above in GCSE from 2017).

Grade B or above in English as a Second Language.

Ghana Senior Secondary School Certificate

If awarded before 1993:  grades 1-6 in English language.

If awarded between 1993 and 2005:  grades A-D in English language.

Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE)

 Level 4, including at least 3 in each component in English Language.

Indian School Certificate (Standard XII)

The Indian School Certificate is accepted at the grades below when awarded by the following examination boards:

Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) – English Core only:  70%

Council for Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) - English:  70% 

International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB)

English A or English B at grade 5 or above.

Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education

Grades A - C in English language

Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM) 1119/GCE O-level

If taken before the end of 2008:  grades 1-6 in English Language.

If taken from 2009 onwards:  grade C or above in English Language.

The qualification must be jointly awarded by the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Syndicate (UCLES).

West African Senior School Certificate

Grades A1-C6 (1-6) in English language when awarded by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) or the National Examinations Council (NECO).

Country exceptions

Select to see the list of exempt english-speaking countries.

If you are a national of one of the countries below, or if you have recently completed a qualification equivalent to a UK Bachelors degree or higher in one of these countries, you will normally meet our English requirement. Note that qualifications obtained by distance learning or awarded by studying outside these countries cannot be accepted for English language purposes.

You will normally be expected to have completed the qualification within two years before starting your course at Sussex. If the qualification was obtained earlier than this, we would expect you to be able to demonstrate that you have maintained a good level of English, for example by living in an English-speaking country or working in an occupation that required you to use English regularly and to a high level.

Please note that this list is determined by the UK’s Home Office, not by the University of Sussex.

List of exempt countries: 

• Antigua and Barbuda
• New Zealand
• St Kitts and Nevis
• St Vincent and the Grenadines
• The British Overseas Territories
• Trinidad and Tobago
• United Kingdom

** Canada: you must be a national of Canada; other nationals not on this list who have a degree from a Canadian institution will not normally be exempt from needing to provide evidence of English.

English language support

If you don’t meet the English language requirements for your degree, you may be able to take a pre-sessional course

• Visas and immigration

Admissions information for applicants

If your qualifications aren’t listed or you have a question about entry requirements, contact us

Application deadlines

To be considered for STFC funding, please apply by the end of January 2024.

• How to apply

If you’d like to join us as a research student:

Find out how to apply for a PhD at Sussex

You can also:

• browse funded projects in this subject area
• browse our potential supervisors.

Full-time and part-time study

Choose to work on your research full time or part time, to fit around your work and personal life. For details  about part-time study, contact us at  [email protected]

PhD or MPhil?

You can choose to study for a PhD or an MPhil. PhD and MPhil degrees differ in duration and in the extent of your research work.

• For a PhD, your research work makes a substantial original contribution to knowledge or understanding in your chosen field.
• For an MPhil, your work is an independent piece of research but in less depth than for a PhD. You’ll graduate with the degree title Master of Philosophy. You might be able to change to a PhD while you study for an MPhil.

I enjoyed the learning environment at Sussex. It was a very open place to do my PhD and I felt like I was given a lot of options .” Rosemary Coogan Astrophysics PhD The European Space Agency’s first female UK astronaut Read Rosemary’s story

Our supervisors

The cosmology group at Sussex is large and very well connected. There are many opportunities to collaborate with other institutes and universities.” Mateja Gosenca Astronomy PhD

Explore our research interests and find potential supervisors.

The Astronomy Centre  is a large research group focusing on many areas of cosmology and astrophysics. Our research spans the early Universe, the cosmic microwave background, the epoch of reionization, the first stars, galaxy formation, observational astronomy and dark energy. PhD projects can be primarily observational, theoretical or computational, or a mixture.

Dr Christian Byrnes

[email protected]

View profile of Christian Byrnes

Prof Ilian Iliev

Professor of Astrophysics

[email protected]

View profile of Ilian Iliev

Prof Antony Lewis

Professor of Cosmology

[email protected]

View profile of Antony Lewis

Dr Jonathan Loveday

Reader In Astronomy

[email protected]

View profile of Jonathan Loveday

Dr Eva-Maria Mueller

Ernest Rutherford Fellow

[email protected]

View profile of Eva-Maria Mueller

Prof Seb Oliver

Deputy Pro Vice Chancellor Research

[email protected]

View profile of Seb Oliver

Prof Kathy Romer

[email protected]

View profile of Kathy Romer

Prof David Seery

[email protected]

View profile of David Seery

Prof Robert E Smith

Professor of Cosmological Physics

[email protected]

View profile of Robert E Smith

Prof Stephen Wilkins

Professor of Astronomy and Public Understanding of Science

[email protected]

View profile of Stephen Wilkins

Funding and fees

How can i fund my course, funded projects and scholarships.

Our aim is to ensure that every student who wants to study with us is able to despite financial barriers, so that we continue to attract talented and unique individuals. Don’t miss out on scholarships – check the specific application deadlines for funding opportunities. Note that funded projects aren’t available for all our PhDs.

Details of our scholarships are not yet set for entry in the academic year 2025/26.

Applying for USA Federal Student Aid?

If any part of your funding, at any time, is through USA federal Direct Loan funds, you will be registered on a separate version of this degree which does not include the possibility of distance learning which is prohibited under USA federal regulations. Find out more about American Student Loans and Federal Student Aid .

Part-time work

We advertise around 2,500 part-time jobs a year so you can make money and gain work experience. We have a special scheme to employ students on campus, wherever possible.

Find out more about careers and employability

How much does it cost?

Fees for self-funding students.

Fees are not yet set for the academic year 2025/26 – check back from September 2024. Note that your fees, once they’re set, may be subject to an increase on an annual basis.

• Living costs

Find out typical living costs for studying at Sussex

Find out about our terms and conditions

Explore our campus

Experience Sussex life in our virtual tour.

Start your virtual tour

PhD Information Sessions

Visit campus and chat to staff and students. Book your place

Online PhD Sessions

Join a live webchat. Book your place

International

Meet us in your country

Course enquiries

+44 (0)1273 876787

Send us a message

Admissions enquiries

If you haven’t applied yet:

+44 (0)1273 876762 mps-pgrsupport@​sussex.ac.uk

Find out about the Department of Physics and Astronomy

After you’ve applied:

+44 (0)1273 877773 [email protected]

Find out how to apply

Quick links

• Guide to PhD study
• PhD support
• Academic facilities
• Open Days and events
• Accommodation
• International students
• Student life
• Order a printed prospectus

What do you want to do next?

• Courses Browse our courses by subject area
• Sussex Life Find out about life at Sussex
• Visit Come to a PhD Open Evening
• Apply Find out how to apply

• Institutions
• Studying Astrophysics
• B.Sc. in Physics
• M.Sc. in Astrophysics
• Doctoral Study
• Research Areas
• Research Infrastructure

University of Potsdam (UP)  

Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron (DESY) 

Leibniz Institute for Astrophysics Potsdam (AIP)

Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics (Albert Einstein Institute / AEI)

Information for

• Prospective Students
• PhD Students

Doctorate in Astrophysics

Doing a doctorate in the network.

As a doctoral candidate, you have the opportunity to conduct your research at the University of Potsdam, at the Leibniz Institute for Astrophysics Potsdam (AIP), the Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron (DESY) or the Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics (Albert Einstein Institute, AEI).

Topics for a doctoral thesis are agreed upon and planned individually with potential supervisors at the institutions. Please refer to the network institutions’ websites for details. Subject-specific Graduate Schools enable doctoral studies within a thematic network with a suitable curriculum. This also promotes enhanced exchange with fellow doctoral candidates involved in similar projects. At AIP and the University of Potsdam, doctorates can be pursued individually or at a Leibniz Graduate School; at AEI, all doctoral students are part of the Max Planck graduate programs (International Max Planck Research Schools).

More information:

• Astrophysics at UP
• Doctoral theses at AIP
• Max Planck graduate program at AEI
• Doctoral theses at DESY

Structured doctoral training

In Germany, only universities have the authority to grant doctoral degrees: for this reason, you will remain enrolled at the university throughout your doctorate. After completing the doctoral exami­nation procedure, the University of Potsdam’s Faculty of Science will award the Doctor of Science degree (Dr. rer. nat.). If you decide to write your doctoral thesis at AIP, for example, your super­visor from AIP will assess your work and be a member of the examining committee.

The non-university institutions in the Astrophysics Network and the University of Potsdam have agreed to offer structured doctoral training. This agreement regulates the rights and obligations of the supervisors and doctoral candidates, ensuring ideal conditions for doctoral studies. In addition, the network offers joint events that are open to all doctoral candidates. Special professional courses and training programs are also offered in the form of transferable and professional skills, delivered in collaboration with the University of Potsdam’s interdisciplinary Potsdam Graduate School.

• Doing a doctorate at the University of Potsdam’s Faculty of Science

Leibniz Graduate School for Quantitative Spectros­copy in Astrophysics

The Leibniz Graduate School for Quanti­tative Spectroscopy in Astrophysics is a collaborative program offered by AIP and the University of Potsdam’s Institute of Physics and Astronomy. Projects can be chosen from a wide range of topics: from solar and planetary physics, stellar physics and extragalactic astrophysics to cosmology. What all these topics have in common is that they involve applying spectroscopic methods.

At the Graduate School, doctoral candi­dates are supervised collectively by the university and AIP. It also offers joint colloquia and courses in which profes­sional knowledge is taught. These offerings are open to all doctoral candidates studying astrophysics, enabling them to engage in lively exchange beyond their individual research group.

• Leibniz Graduate School for Quantitative Spektroscopy in Astrophysics

International Max Planck Research Schools

International Max Planck Research Schools (IMPRS) are offered by Max Planck Institutes in cooperation with partner universities. There are two such doctoral programs at AEI. The “IMPRS on Gravitational-Wave Astronomy” with branches in Potsdam and Hannover focuses on gravitational-wave research. Its branch in Potsdam is dedicated to analytical and numerical relativity, data analysis, astrophysics of compact objects, and multi-messenger astronomy while its branch in Hannover investigates experimental and observational aspects of gravitational-wave astronomy. Both branches participate in the analysis of gravitational-wave detector data of the LIGO and Virgo detectors.

The “IMPRS for Mathematical and Physical Aspects of Gravitation, Cosmology and Quantum Field Theory” addresses fundamental questions about the nature of classical and quantum gravity and its links to the fundamental constituents of matter. The purely theoretical research brings together some of the most exciting challenges of modern physics and mathematics.

You are also welcome to attend lectures at nearby universities and take advantage of a specialized IMPRS curriculum and continuing education courses. It usually takes three years to complete a doctorate at the IMPRS. The working language is typically English.

• IMPRS on Gravitational Wave Astronomy, Branch in Potsdam
• IMPRS for Mathematical and Physical Aspects of Gravitation, Cosmology and Quantum Field Theory

Demanding doctoral projects in an international environment are offered at DESY. At the Zeuthen site, you can complete your dissertation on astrophysical issues from the research area of astro­particle physics. Astroparticle physics unites issues and methods from astrophysics, cosmology, particle physics, and observations of fundamental processes in the universe.

At DESY, doctoral projects are available in a variety of experimental research projects concerning neutrino and gamma astronomy, or in theoretical astroparticle physics. As a doctoral student, you will be closely integrated in research groups at Zeuthen and the participating universities (University of Potsdam and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin).

• Helmholtz Weizmann Reseach School Multimessenger Astronomy
• Potsdam Graduate School

Potsdam Graduate School (PoGS) is a central scientific facility at the University of Potsdam. It acts as the central contact point and supporting organization for doctoral candidates and postdocs from all faculties. Potsdam Graduate School brings together individual doctoral candidates, and connects the structured graduate programs of the University of Potsdam and the non-university institutions.

It offers a wide range of services: funding opportunities such as publishing and travel allowances, proof reading, as well as multidisciplinary courses and PhD coaching.

A comprehensive continuing education program is also open to all doctoral candidates, preparing them not only for university teaching, but also for professions outside higher education. Potsdam Graduate School also organizes numerous networking events, such as Career Talks, a Science Club and PhDay.

There are currently over one thousand doctoral candidates from all kinds of subject areas at Potsdam Graduate School.

Support PSL

Astrophysics

The Graduate Program in Astrophysics offers a comprehensive curriculum of advanced study and research, from the Master's to the Doctorate degree, in astronomy and astrophysics. Supported by research laboratories at the Observatoire de Paris - PSL and ENS - PSL, and by the space campus CENSUS , the graduate program offers a Master’s degree in which research plays a central role. Students may also choose elective courses designed to improve their transdisciplinary skills and broaden their curriculum.

Key figures

Sun, plasma

Planets, exoplanets

Stars and the interstellar medium

Galaxies and cosmology

Instrumental and digital engineering

Space engineering

High-energy astrophysics

Gravitation

A five-year track from Master’s to PhD

Upon entering the Master’s degree program, each student will define their scientific project with the graduate program's faculty and researchers. Students will have an academic advisor and will be heavily involved in research throughout the program.

Choose your Master’s degree and define your academic path

The graduate program offers the following Master’s degrees:

Enhance and customize your academic path: elective courses

Complementary university-wide courses.

Graduate program students at both the Master’s and PhD level have access to university-wide trainings in core competencies, both introductory and advanced, designed to supplement their academic study. Those complementary university-wide courses, available in all of PSL’s component schools, are eligible for ECTS credit.

Career opportunities

Trained in and through research, PSL alumni find numerous employment opportunities in the public, private and entrepreneurial sectors as well as in the academic world.

Pursue a PhD

Doctoral research is conducted in a PSL laboratory. Training is conducted in a doctoral school.

Graduate program doctoral schools

• École Doctorale Astronomie et Astrophysique d’Île-de-France - ED 127
• École Doctorale Physique en Île-de-France - ED 564

Graduate program laboratories

Graduate Program Director:

Benoît Mosser (Observatoire de Paris - PSL) [email protected]

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PhD in Astrophysics

• Admission Board
• Training and research

Application deadline: Dec 14, 2022 at 11:59 PM (Expired)

2nd NRRP Call for Applications - Further PhD positions

• Call for applications
• PhD Programme Table
• Evaluation sub-criteria

Enrolment: From Feb 02, 2023 to Feb 12, 2023 - On www.studenti.unibo.it, PhD candidates awarding NRRP positions should use NRRP forms only

Doctoral programme start date: Mar 01, 2023

Application deadline: Aug 02, 2022 at 11:59 PM (Expired)

NRRP Call for Applications

Enrolment: From Sep 26, 2022 to Oct 05, 2022 - On www.studenti.unibo.it download NRRP forms only

Doctoral programme start date: Nov 01, 2022

Application deadline: Jun 09, 2022 at 11:59 PM (Expired)

Call for Applications

Positions: More information in the PhD Programme Table

Enrolment: From Jul 20, 2022 to Jul 29, 2022

• Stellar populations in the Local Group
• Populations, chemistry and dynamics of stellar clusters
• Stellar and chemical evolution of galaxies
• Formation and evolution of galaxies and AGN
• Radioastronomy
• High energy astrophysics
• Astronomical technology
• Galactic dynamics
• Galaxy Clusters, Large-scale structure of the Universe, Cosmology

NRRP Call - Further PhD Positions Appointed by RD 952/2022 Prot. n. 0357333 of 02/12/2022

NRPP Call Admission Board Appointed by RD 1103/2022 Prot. n. 0162873 of 17/07/2022

* The following shall take part in the work of the Examination Board as expert members for positions linked to specific research topics:

• Eleonora Torresi - INAF – Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica
• Claudio Gheller - INAF – Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica
• Maria Antonietta Perino - Thales Alenia Space Italia

Call for Application Admission Board Appointed by RD 830/2022 Prot. n. 0127511 of 30/05/2022

This PhD course aims at training young researchers to carry out independent research activities in different fields of astronomy and astrophysics (stellar and extragalactic astrophysics, cosmology, technological and computer applications in astrophysics). In general, our PhD students are expected to become familiar with scientific methods that could potentially be used also in frameworks not necessarily related to astrophysics, like for instance for training managerial staff in private/public organizations which treats complex systems and in the field of outreach and dissemination of science.

Fundamental research (both theoretical/modeling and experimental/observational), focused on: Stellar Clusters (their formation and evolution, populations, chemistry and dynamics of stellar clusters); Galaxies (single objects, galaxies with AGN, dynamics and formation, galaxies in groups and clusters); Cosmology (models, large scale structure, cosmic microwave background radiation). Applied research, related to the development of numerical codes and/or astrophysical instrumentation in different wavebands, ranging from radio to X- and gamma-rays. The activity can include the acquisition of data at the main national and international facilities (INAF, ESO, ESA, EVN, NRAO, etc.) and the preparation of proposals for observations with ground-based and space telescopes or for supercomputers. The research activity requires the development and/or usage of numerical codes to model and analyze the data, the extensive usage of databases, and the bibliographic research. Each year PhD students are required to attend 2-3 cycles of seminars  specifically organized for them dealing with topics of great relevance in astrophysics and cosmology (see the web page  https://phd.unibo.it/astrophysics/en/teaching/accademic-year-2020-2021)

The main goal of the PhD course is the training of the students in the most modern areas of the astrophysical research, both theoretical/modeling and experimental/observational. According to the specific subject of the thesis, the students, thanks to their immediate inclusion in the research groups, develop their capabilities to acquire and analyse observational data obtained using the best international instruments in the different bands (optical, millimetric, radio, X-rays, very high-energy) and/or to develop numerical codes or models and/or astrophysical technologies. Fundamental part of the training is to write scientific papers and reports, to publicly present the results, to write applications for computational or observational time. Moreover the PhD students develop the necessary knowledge about the national and international system for financial support to the research. Finally, thanks to the internal courses and seminars, and the attendance to National and international schools, the PhD students extend their general culture in fundamental Astrophysics and Physics. PhD students are also involved in the design and implementation of public engagement, outreach and dissemination methodologies for science.

PhD students participate actively to research projects of international value, often in the context of extended international collaborations. Almost all the observational activity is based on the most advanced ground-based and space instrumentation, the access to which is guaranteed by the direct participation of INAF, by the italian presence in european organizations for astronomy (ESO, ESA) and by specific international agreements (LBT, EVN, ASTRONET, etc). The research activity for PhD theses are acknowledged by different international institutions (like NRAO and EVN). All the internal activities (courses, seminars, reports, etc.) are given in english, as well the written final dissertation. Foreign researchers are regularly members of the defense committee. Long visits (3-6 months) to foreign scientific institutions are recommended: to this goal a dedicate grant (Marco Polo Program) is reserved for PhD students. Moreover theses in the framework of international joint supervision (cotutela) or for european degrees are strongly supported. The attendance to international meetings (with presentation of results) are strongly encouraged. Several Ph candidates come from foreign countries. The participation of foreign candidates to the selection process is facilitated by the use of videoconference (i.e. skype)

Thesis written in english, talks at (national/international) meetings, publication of the results extracted from the thesis (at least two by three years after the defense) on international refereed journals or at least one patent request; reports on possible technological and/or computational applications.

Andrea Miglio

Dipartimento di Fisica e Astronomia "Augusto Righi"

Via Gobetti 93/2 Bologna (BO)

[email protected]

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Postgraduate Courses in Astrophysics in Europe - 69 Courses

University of aberdeen school of geosciences.

• Planetary Sciences (Online) Master of Science - MSc (PG)

Cardiff University School of Physics and Astronomy

• Astrophysics MSc
• Data-Intensive Astrophysics MSc

Cranfield University Cranfield University

• Astronautics and Space Engineering MSc

University College Dublin UCD School of Physics

• Space Science & Technology MSc

Durham University Computer Science

• Scientific Computing and Data Analysis (Astrophysics) MSc

The University of Edinburgh School of Physics and Astronomy

• Astrophysics Doctor of Philosophy - PhD

University of Glasgow School of Physics & Astronomy

University of Helsinki Faculty of Science

• Particle Physics and Astrophysical Sciences MSc

University of Kent School of Physical Sciences

• Physics Doctor of Philosophy - PhD MSc (Res)

University of Lincoln School of Mathematics and Physics

• Astrophysics Doctor of Philosophy - PhD Master of Philosophy - MPhil

Liverpool John Moores University Astrophysics Research Institute

• Postgraduate research opportunities in Astrophysics Doctor of Philosophy - PhD Master of Philosophy - MPhil

Liverpool John Moores University Liverpool School of Art and Design

• Art in Science MA

Queen Mary University of London Physical and Chemical Sciences

• Astronomy and Astrophysics Postgraduate Certificate - PgCert

Queen's University Belfast School of Mathematics and Physics

• Physics Doctor of Philosophy - PhD Master of Philosophy - MPhil

University of St Andrews Physics and Astronomy

University of Sussex Physics and Astronomy

• Physics Doctor of Philosophy - PhD

UCL (University College London) Physics and Astronomy

University of Warwick Physics

University of Amsterdam Faculty of Science

• Astronomy and Astrophysics

University of Bonn Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences

• Astrophysics

University of Bristol Physics

University of cambridge astronomy.

• Astrophysics MASt

University of Cambridge Physics

University of dundee school of science and engineering.

• Physics PhD Doctor of Philosophy - PhD

Edge Hill University Faculty of Education - Secondary

• PGCE Secondary Science (Physics) with QTS (11-16) Postgraduate Certificate in Education - PGCE

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We have 52 Astrophysics PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

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Astrophysics PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

PhDs in Astrophysics are doctoral research degrees that allow students to deeply explore a particular aspect of the universe and its phenomena.

Specifics vary drastically between programmes, but may involve research into the complexities of celestial bodies, the fundamental laws of physics governing the cosmos, and the development of new technologies for space exploration.

Entry requirements typically include an undergraduate degree in an appropriate subject such as Physics, Astronomy, or Mathematics. A relevant Masters degree may also be required depending on the programme.

Why study a PhD in Astrophysics?

Develop skills and knowledge.

A PhD in Astrophysics allows you to not only develop your own knowledge of the universe, but also to make a unique, original contribution to the subject as a whole. By doing so, you will hone a variety of transferable skills, such as:

• Research and Analytical Skills: Ability to design, conduct, and analyse complex research projects.
• Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Expertise in evaluating astrophysical theories and data to address challenges.
• Communication and Presentation Skills: Proficiency in effectively conveying ideas and findings to diverse audiences.

Further Career Development

If you're hoping for a career in academia, a PhD is typically required. Other research-based careers may likewise require a PhD, and even when they don't, employers will value the research skills and knowledge developed during your degree. For more information, please visit our PhD employability guide .

After completing your PhD in Astrophysics, a potential career option might be employment as an Academic Researcher . According to UK salary data from Glassdoor , an Academic Researcher earns an average of £33,747 per year , dependent on factors such as experience, employer and employment location.

Improve Employability

Completing a PhD may also improve your employability. According to the UK government's LEO Graduate and Postgraduate Outcomes survey , 78% of Physics PhD students were in further education or employment three years after graduation.

What do prospective Physics PhD students think about study?

We host the Pulse postgraduate survey to understand the motivations, concerns and expectations of students just like you. For prospective Physics PhD students in 2023:

• 74% were either positive or very positive about employment after graduation.
• 83% preferred on campus learning, 5% preferred online/distance learning, and 12% preferred a blended approach.
• 10% were interested in part-time study.
• Subject interest
• Career progress

If you'd like to make your voice heard, why not complete our survey? Your feedback will help us ensure our site is as helpful as possible for students like you!

Note: This guidance was produced with the assistance of AI. However, all data is derived from reliable, authoratitive sources, and all content has been reviewed by humans.

Color Science Ph.D.

Phd research project.

PhD Research Projects are advertised opportunities to examine a pre-defined topic or answer a stated research question. Some projects may also provide scope for you to propose your own ideas and approaches.

Funded PhD Project (Students Worldwide)

This project has funding attached, subject to eligibility criteria. Applications for the project are welcome from all suitably qualified candidates, but its funding may be restricted to a limited set of nationalities. You should check the project and department details for more information.

PhD position (f/m/d) in Biophotonics / molecular Biophysics

Imaging science phd, the university of manchester - department of physics and astronomy, funded phd programme (students worldwide).

Some or all of the PhD opportunities in this programme have funding attached. Applications for this programme are welcome from suitably qualified candidates worldwide. Funding may only be available to a limited set of nationalities and you should read the full programme details for further information.

PhD Research Programme

PhD Research Programmes present a range of research opportunities shaped by a university’s particular expertise, facilities and resources. You will usually identify a suitable topic for your PhD and propose your own project. Additional training and development opportunities may also be offered as part of your programme.

Exploring close binary stars: Using nonlinear time series analysis and machine learning for analysing stellar light curves.

Self-funded phd students only.

This project does not have funding attached. You will need to have your own means of paying fees and living costs and / or seek separate funding from student finance, charities or trusts.

What time can tell us about space: Using time-resolved observations of young stars to explore the circumstellar environment beyond what direct resolution can achieve

A long-term variability study of young stars: periodicity, hot spots, accretion and early evolution at the time of planet formation, identification and classification of coherent flow structures in the plasma of the sun’s photosphere, "chatgpt" for astronomical light curves, competition funded phd project (students worldwide).

This project is in competition for funding with other projects. Usually the project which receives the best applicant will be successful. Unsuccessful projects may still go ahead as self-funded opportunities. Applications for the project are welcome from all suitably qualified candidates, but potential funding may be restricted to a limited set of nationalities. You should check the project and department details for more information.

Untangling Minor Planet Families

Searching for dark matter with the lux-zeplin detector, infra-red observation programme -- microlensing observations in astrophysics, exoplanet characterisation predictions via gravitational microlensing, spacecraft trajectory optimisation, space/astrophysical plasma and space weather, funded phd project (uk students only).

This research project has funding attached. It is only available to UK citizens or those who have been resident in the UK for a period of 3 years or more. Some projects, which are funded by charities or by the universities themselves may have more stringent restrictions.

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Filtering Results

Europe: 20+ fully-funded PhD positions

Discover a wide range of courses and programs at prestigious universities across Europe in disciplines such as chemistry, biological sciences, biochemistry, biotechnology, engineering, molecular biology, medical sciences, agricultural sciences, soil science, environmental science, water science, physics,  mathematics, geosciences, computer science, industrial engineering, downstream processing, and more. Below is a list of schools offering the positions as well as direct links to the posts in the EURAXESS portal.

Here is a list of leading institutions providing these opportunities:

• Karlsruhe Institute of Technology 
• Medical University of Vienna
• Institute of Haematology and Transfusion Medicine 
• University of Bergen 
• Basque Center for Macromolecular Design and Engineering POLYMAT Fundazioa
• Université de Liège
• Inserm U1297
• Università Della Calabria 
• Austrian Centre of Industrial Biotechnology (ACIB GmbH)
• Lund University 
• University of Salerno
• University of Southern Denmark 
• iBET - Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica 
• INSA Rouen Normandie 
• Hasselt University 
• Institute of Agrophysics of Polish Academy of Sciences
• University of Modena and Reggio Emilia 
• University of Iceland Science Institute  

Seize the opportunity to advance your academic and research career. Apply now for doctoral (PhD) positions at these esteemed institutions:

PhD Student in Characterization and Recovery of Bionanoparticles for Vaccine Delivery and Gene Therapy, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (Germany)

PhD Student in the Huppa Lab at the Medical University of Vienna, Medical University of Vienna (Austria)

PhD Student in Molecular Biology, Oncology and Hematology, Institute of Haematology and Transfusion Medicine (Poland)

PhD Student in Causal Decision Making, University of Bergen (Norway) 

PhD Fellowship in Applied Chemistry and Polymeric Materials, Basque Center for Macromolecular Design and Engineering POLYMAT Fundazioa (Spain)

PhD Student in Characterization of thermo-hydro-mechanical properties of longwall goaf for geothermal energy storage in abandoned coal mines, Université de Liège (Belgium)

PhD Student in urinary cytokines for the early detection and outcome assessment of kidney injury, Inserm U1297 (Spain)

PhD Student in MetacMed - Acoustic and mechanical metamaterials for biomedical and energy harvesting applications, Università Della Calabria (Italy)

PhD Fellow in Wind Modeling, UiT The Arctic University of Norway (Norway) 

PhD Fellow in Geodynamics and Surface Processes, University of Bergen (Norway)

PhD Student in Separation and purification of bionanoparticles by convective material and 3D-printed material, Austrian Centre of Industrial Biotechnology (ACIB GmbH) (Austria)

PhD Student in Synchrotron Methods and Applications in Sweden, Lund University (Sweden)

PhD Student in Industrial Engineering (chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, electronic engineering) - University of Salerno (Italy) 

PhD Student in Model-based prediction of bionanoparticle separation by continuous ultracentrifugation and convective chromatography, Austrian Centre of Industrial Biotechnology (ACIB GmbH) (Austria)

PhD Student in LLM-assisted Multirobot Mission Planning and Control, University of Southern Denmark (Denmark)

PhD Student in Area of Natural Bioactives & Nutraceuticals, iBET - Instituto de Biologia Experimental e Tecnológica (Portugal) 

PhD Student in Electrochemical Gold-Catalysed Processes, INSA Rouen Normandie (France)

PhD Student quantum mechanical modelling of polymers, Hasselt University (Belgium)

PhD Student in legume-based diversification of cereal cropping systems, IRTA (Spain)

PhD Student in Splash phenomenon as a mechanism of transportation of soil bacteria, Institute of Agrophysics of Polish Academy of Sciences (Poland)

PhD Research Fellow in applied and computational mathematics, University of Bergen (Norway)

PhD Student in Palynology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Italy)

PhD Student in AI-modelling of Powerful Microwaves in Fusion Plasmas, University of Southern Denmark (Denmark) 

PhD Student in personalized medicine in chronic kidney disease, Inserm U1297 (France)

PhD Student in method development and simulation of solid / liquid interfaces,

University of Iceland Science Institute (Iceland)

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• Science Education and Careers

Do I have a REAL chance to study a MSc in astrophysics in Europe, USA?

• Thread starter Dorian Araya
• Start date Saturday, 4:07 PM
• Tags Astrophysics Msc Scholarship
• Saturday, 4:07 PM
• Novel light transport model improves X-ray phase contrast imaging
• Physicists throw world's smallest disco party with a levitating ball of fluorescent nanodiamond
• New insights into neural circuit imaging: A comparison of one-photon and two-photon techniques
• Sunday, 11:04 AM

A PF Universe

Dorian Araya said: i really need a really good funded scholarship

Dorian Araya said: 3-3.4 GPA

Dorian Araya said: a university that is NOT top 10 in my country

Dorian Araya said: I sent this model to the journal dark universe physics (Q1)

• Q1 is meaningless, when most Q2-4 are predatory
• Sending to a journal is not the same as being published
• There is no journal "Dark Universe Physics". Either it is predatory or you meant "Physics of the Dark Universe". If the former, it won't help. If the latter, it will seriously hurt you: at the very best, getting the journal name is wrong is sloppy. Who wants a sloppy student? And other explanations are even worse.
• Sunday, 8:28 PM
• Sunday, 8:55 PM

A score of 105 will make you eligible for a TA at most, but not all, universities. And the PGRE?  

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