Doctor of Philosophy (Physics) candidates undertake in-depth research in order to make an original contribution to the body of knowledge in a chosen field of study. This qualification can lead to, or enhance, an academic career and is also highly regarded by public and private sector employers. Information regarding the University's research activity, research strengths and scholarships can be found on UOW's Research & Innovation website. Students are encouraged to identify potential supervisors who match their research interests. Students are also advised to make contact with a potential supervisor to discuss their project prior to applying for admission. The Faculty will ensure that supervisors with appropriate expertise are allocated to suitable candidates in the application process. Each PhD candidate has two supervisors. The research involved in producing a doctoral (PhD) dissertation involves a significant contribution to a field of knowledge. The thesis must be a minimum of 80,000 words and no longer than 100,000 words in length. Students may be required to attend lectures in relevant topics from time to time throughout the program. What you will study The Physics Program is innovative in both research and teaching, and internationally recognized for work in the following key research areas: Medical Radiation Physics and High Energy Physics Solid State and Semiconductor Physics Superconductivity Bimolecular Physics Atmospheric Physics Optical Sensor Physics and Photonics. Other research directions available through our industry partners include: Astronomy and Astrophysics High Energy Physics Neutron Diffraction, etc. Course Learning Outcomes Students graduating from the Doctor of Philosophy will be able to: Demonstrate expert, specialized cognitive technical and research skills in a discipline area to independently and systematically generate original knowledge and understanding to make a substantial scholarly contribution to a discipline; Critically reflect on, synthesize and evaluate a substantial and complex body of knowledge at the frontier of a discipline area; Communicate research findings, explaining and critiquing theoretical propositions, methodologies, results and conclusions to peers and to the community; Apply detailed knowledge of research, research integrity, ethics and the rights and safety of others, to plan and execute original research with intellectual independence and with full autonomy, authoritative judgment, adaptability and responsibility for personal outputs. Course Structure This program is 100% by thesis. Candidates enroll in a 48 credit point thesis subject and repeat the same enrolment for each year of study, usually over four years of full-time study. Students may be required to attend lectures in relevant topics from time to time throughout the program. Why choose this course The University of Wollongong has a distinguished physics research reputation, particularly in collaboration with industry, both in Australia and internationally. Our postgraduate research programs are supported by an extensive network in government and industry who work closely to supervise postgraduate research projects. This world class research has led to the creation of a number of Centers of Excellence, which has attracted a critical mass of researchers engaged in significant, well-funded projects with superior equipment infrastructure.