Particle Physics MSc(Res)

Program Overview

Through core modules and a substantial research project, students gain advanced knowledge and hands-on experience in experimental techniques and data analysis. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in particle physics research, academia, or industries requiring strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

This MSc(Res) Particle Physics program delves into the intricate theories and experimental techniques employed by particle physicists to unravel the mysteries of the universe. The program provides a comprehensive exploration of the methods used to study the universe, including the experiments that led to the discovery of neutrons, positrons, and neutrinos, as well as the experimental evidence for quarks and gluons. You'll have the opportunity to examine potential explanations for dark matter with leading researchers in the field and engage in modules led by scientists involved in the Higgs boson and gravitational wave discoveries.

Outline:

The program's core modules include:

• The Development of Particle Physics: This module traces the evolution of key concepts in particle physics, emphasizing the role of experiments.
It encourages students to engage with original literature and focuses on research methodology, including experimental design, data interpretation, and the interplay between theory and experiment. Topics covered include the discoveries of the neutron, positron, and neutrino, parity and CP violations, and experimental evidence for quarks and gluons. (15 credits) (15 credits)
• Research Project in Physics: This project-based module allows students to apply their scientific knowledge to a research problem.
Students develop skills in time management, project planning, scientific record keeping, information retrieval, and analysis of scientific information sources. They choose a project relevant to their program of study and work closely with an academic supervisor. The project can be experimental, theoretical, analytical, or computational in nature and involves a substantial component of new work. The research culminates in a written dissertation. (90 credits) Optional modules include:
• Dark Matter and the Universe: This course provides a comprehensive understanding of Dark Matter in the Universe from both astrophysics and particle physics perspectives.
It covers the astrophysical evidence for Dark Matter and the detection of candidate Dark Matter particles. (15 credits) It delves into Einstein's equations and uses Schwarzschild black holes, Friedmann Robertson Walker cosmology, and gravitational waves as examples. (15 credits) Students choose one module from the following:
• Physics in an Enterprise Culture: This seminar and workshop-based course guides students in creating a business proposal for a new venture.
It covers topics like innovation, intellectual property, costing, and business planning. (15 credits) It also covers contemporary topics such as Quantum Statistical Mechanics, Phase transitions and critical phenomena, and Mean field theory. (15 credits) It covers recent developments like the discovery of the Higgs Boson and neutrino oscillation studies. (15 credits)
• Origin of the Chemical Elements: This course examines the origin, distribution, and evolution of chemical elements, exploring their creation in the early Universe, during stellar life cycles, and in the interstellar medium.
(15 credits) Students will learn how the contents of the Universe affect its dynamic evolution, and how we can use observations of Type 1a Supernovae and the Cosmic Microwave Background to constrain the properties of the Universe. Students will also learn about key epochs during the history of the Universe, from inflation through to nucleosynthesis, recombination, and reionisation, before learning how the first stars and galaxies started to form. (15 credits)

Assessment:

Assessment methods include examinations, coursework, essays, written work, presentations, a dissertation, and a viva.

Teaching:

Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, tutorials, and a research project. Students typically spend around 12 weeks working on an individual research project alongside PhD students and experienced postdoctoral researchers. This provides hands-on research experience and access to Sheffield's exceptional research facilities.

Careers:

The program's advanced topics and extensive research training make it ideal preparation for a PhD and a career in particle physics research. Sheffield physics graduates have secured positions at organizations like CERN, the Science and Technology Facilities Council, and top universities worldwide. Physics graduates also develop valuable numerical, problem-solving, and data analysis skills, making them well-suited for careers in computer programming, software engineering, data science, and research and development. Employers who have hired Sheffield physics graduates include BT, EDF Energy, HSBC, IBM, Manchester United FC, Nissan, the NHS, and the Civil Service.

Other:

The program offers the opportunity to work on a research project at a facility like CERN. Possible research topics include:

• Background events in the LUX-Zeplin dark matter experiment
• Characterizing ultra-fast imaging photon sensors for neutrino experiments
• Designing a masterclass for high-school students using ATLAS open data
• Searching for new Physics beyond the Standard Model
The University of Sheffield has a strong reputation in high-energy physics, with researchers involved in projects like the ATLAS collaboration that led to the Higgs boson discovery. The program provides opportunities for students to visit CERN and engage with researchers working on cutting-edge projects.

• Home (2024 annual fee): £12,070
• Overseas (2024 annual fee): £27,650
• The fee listed is for the advertised mode of study.
If you're studying for an alternative qualification or via a different mode of study (eg full-time, part-time) then the fee could be different. Due to inflation, the fee for Home students could also increase after your first year of study.