Swansea & Chinese Scholarship Council (CSC) Studentships

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

Job summary

A leading research university in the United Kingdom seeks motivated candidates for PhD opportunities in theoretical cosmology and gravitational-wave physics. Candidates will engage in innovative research, collaborate internationally, and be part of a supportive academic community. A strong first degree in a relevant field is essential, along with communication and teamwork skills. This position offers a unique chance to work on groundbreaking topics in cosmology, supported by excellent supervision and a vibrant academic environment.

Benefits

Excellent supervision and research environment

Access to international collaborations and HPC facilities

Vibrant academic and coastal living environment

Qualifications

• Candidates should possess a strong first degree in physics or mathematics.
• Evidence of analytical ability and programming skills is desirable.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English are required.

Responsibilities

• Pursue doctoral studies in theoretical cosmology and gravitational-wave physics.
• Engage in cutting-edge research at Swansea University.
• Collaborate with international teams and contribute to major research projects.

Skills

Strong English communication skills

Ability to work independently and in teams

Education

Strong first degree in physics, mathematics, or a related field

Job description

The Research Group in Theoretical Cosmology and Gravity at Swansea University (UK) invites applications from highly motivated and talented candidates wishing to pursue doctoral studies in theoretical cosmology and gravitational-wave physics under the Swansea & Chinese Scholarship Council (CSC) PhD Scholarships.

Application deadline: 02 February 2026

About the Group

Our Research Group in Theoretical Cosmology and Gravity, led by faculty members Azadeh Maleknejad, Gianmassimo Tasinato, Ivonne Zavala, carries out cutting-edge research at the forefront of theoretical cosmology, gravitational-wave science, and quantum field theory in curved spacetimes. We place particular emphasis on bridging fundamental theoretical ideas with phenomenological predictions and experimental efforts in observational cosmology and gravitational-wave physics. The group forms part of the Centre for Quantum Fields and Gravity at Swansea University—a leading hub for research in string theory, quantum chromodynamics, and the application of artificial intelligence to fundamental physics. Our team includes postdoctoral researchers and several PhD students, and is international, diverse, and highly collaborative, fostering a vibrant and supportive environment within a dynamic research university that encourages interaction across disciplines and career stages.

Research topics

• Early-Universe Cosmology and Quantum Fields in Curved Spacetimes: exploring the quantum origins of the Universe, the interplay between gravity and quantum field theory, and the imprints of fundamental physics on cosmological observables.
• Gravitational-Wave Backgrounds and Fundamental Physics: investigating gravitational-wave signals from cosmological and astrophysical sources, developing advanced data-analysis methods, and probing connections to physics beyond the Standard Model.
• Testing Gravity Across Cosmic Scales: using gravitational waves as a new window on the Universe—from pulsar‑timing arrays and NANOGrav to the Einstein Telescope, LISA, and Euclid—to test general relativity and explore the fundamental nature of spacetime.
• Machine Learning for the Dark Universe: applying modern AI and machine‑learning techniques to reconstruct the dynamical properties of the Dark Universe from current and forthcoming cosmological and gravitational‑wave data.

Application Requirements

• Strong first degree in physics, mathematics, or a related field
• Ability to work independently and in teams
• Strong English communication skills

What We Offer

• Excellent supervision and research environment
• Access to international collaborations and HPC facilities
• Vibrant academic and coastal living environment

Application process

Prospective candidates are encouraged to follow the applications steps outlined in the webpage of the scholarship: https://www.swansea.ac.uk/postgraduate/scholarships/research/bioscience-geography-physics-csc-phd-2025-rs930.php

Candidates are expected to hold a strong first degree (or equivalent) in physics, mathematics, or a closely related discipline. Evidence of analytical ability and programming skills is highly desirable.

Prove ability to work both independently and as part of a team, with strong written and verbal communication skills in English.

Genuine motivation to develop and pursue independent research funding in parallel with this opportunity.

For any questions regarding the practical aspects of the scholarship, please e-mail [e-mail].

Contact Information

Azadeh Maleknejad — [e-mail]

Gianmassimo Tasinato — [e-mail]

Ivonne Zavala — [e-mail]