Our research
The School of Physics and Astronomy has a long and illustrious reputation for cutting edge research. In recent years this has been recognised by top gradings in the UK Government's Research Assessment Exercise.
Our research groups work in a diverse range of different areas in physics and are in active collaboration with Physics departments throughout Scotland through SUPA, as well as with Universities and Research Institutes and Facilities all over the world.
Our research impact is far reaching in areas including:
- medical imaging
- oil and gas prospecting
- physics education
- electron spectroscopy for materials characterisation
- laser stabilisation for high precision measurement and standards.
We also host regular research colloquia in the main teaching semesters with speakers from both the UK and overseas.
The School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Glasgow is an excellent place to study for a PhD and many previous PhD theses are available via the University Library.
SUPA - The Scottish Universities Physics Alliance
Eight Scottish Universities (Aberdeen, Dundee, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Heriot Watt, St Andrews, Strathclyde and UWS) have come together to form a research alliance in Physics. The aim is to place Scotland at the forefront of research in Physics through an agreed national strategy, an inter-institutional management structure, and co-ordinated promotion and pursuit of excellence. More details of this research alliance are to be found on the SUPA webpages.
Research groups
Our research groups are grounded in deep expertise and collaborative inquiry. Learn how their work drives meaningful progress, informs critical understanding, and contributes to addressing the complex challenges of our time.
Research impact
Explore how our research is making a real-world impact — from medical imaging and materials characterisation to physics education and precision measurement.
Postgraduate research opportunities
Discover postgraduate research opportunities at the School of Physics and Astronomy — and take the next step in shaping the future of science.
Colloquia
Join us for our weekly Colloquia — a lively series of talks on cutting-edge physics, open to all and held every Wednesday at 2pm in the Kelvin Building.