PhD Position in Theoretical Particle Physics

Physics World; Glasgow; On-site; GBP 15,000 - 20,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious university in the UK is inviting applications for PhD positions focused on Lattice QCD and Beyond the Standard Model Phenomenology. Candidates will work on projects that include calculating hadronic form factors and exploring constraints on new physics models. Successful applicants will be funded by the STFC and prestigious university awards covering stipends and fees. Applications are open until 31 January 2026, with interviews in February or March for entry in October 2026.

Qualifications

• Excellent applicants are sought for positions in Lattice QCD or Beyond the Standard Model Phenomenology.
• Ability to conduct research related to the calculation of hadronic form factors.

Responsibilities

• Investigate constraints on new physics models using higher dimensional operators.
• Calculate hadronic form factors for various projects.

Job description

The Particle Theory Group of the School of Physics and Astronomy, University of Glasgow welcomes excellent applicants for PhD positions in Lattice QCD or Beyond the Standard Model Phenomenology.

Lattice QCD

Several projects involving the calculation of hadronic form factors for semileptonic and rare decays of heavy mesons, both to allow improved determinations of CKM matrix elements and improve Standard Model predictions used in the search for new physics. Also several projects involving the calculation of radiative transitions of heavy vector mesons, with a connection to searches for proposed beyond the Standard Model axion‑like particles.

Beyond the Standard Model Phenomenology

Projects are available that investigate constraints on new physics models using higher dimensional operators and effective field theories. In particular models of grand unification that introduce new physics such as flavour interactions or dark matter, with emphasis on constraints from current and future colliders.

Funding

Our usual funding route for UK students is through the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), which provides awards for three and a half years and pays a stipend as well as University fees. The College of Science and Engineering also provides a prestigious scholarship with a maintenance award comparable to the STFC stipend plus fees.

Applicants should apply before 31 January 2026, through the School's applications portal at https://www.gla.ac.uk/postgraduate/research/physicsastronomy/#tab=apply. Interviews will be held in February or March for entry in October 2026.

Contact: For further questions, please contact Dr. Sophie Renner ([e-mail])