Experimental Physics - Research

Research degrees in Experimental Physics are based on original research work, which may involve laboratory investigations and/or computational studies. This research is carried out under the supervision of an experienced researcher. In addition, valuable transferable skills are developed through flexible support modules, as part of Maynooth University's structured PhD programme.



All students will be registered onto a Structured PhD Programme. Students need to pass a certain number of credits in support modules, in addition to successful completion and examination of the thesis. The student's original research as presented in the thesis is the sole means of assessment for the award of the degree.



PhD students must take a minimum of 30 credits in support modules (15 in transferable modules and 15 in subject specific modules) and not exceed 90 credits in support modules over the duration of their Structured PhD programme.

First-class or upper second-class (2.1) honours undergraduate degree in Physics, or equivalent.



Applicants must have a recognised primary degree which is considered equivalent to Irish university primary degree level.



Minimum English language requirements:

Applicants for whom English is not their first language are required to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study. For information about English language tests accepted and required scores, please see here. The requirements specified are applicable for both EU and International applicants..



Maynooth University's TOEFL code is 8850

Applications are open for the 2025/6 academic year. Visit our online application portal to start your application.

We are here to support you throughout the admissions process.



For queries on your postgraduate course options please contact pgstudies@mu.ie

For queries or support on your application process please contact pgadmissions@mu.ie



If you are an international (Non-EU) applicant please contact internationaladmissions@mu.ie

4 years full-time

In general, there are two levels of fees payable. EU students from EU countries including Ireland pay a subsidised level of fees for both taught courses and research programmes. Tuition fees for students from outside the EU are not subsidised and are thus somewhat higher than for EU students.

Commences September (or other agreed time)

During the course of their studies research students at the Department of Experimental Physics develop expertise in specialized areas of experimental physics, computational physics or astrophysics. Research work in Experimental Physics also develops a range of ancillary skills – in the areas of problem-solving, computational modelling, system analysis, and technical communication.



This blend of Physics and transferable skills means that Physics graduates are highly sought after by employers not only in a wide range of traditional high-technology industries such as microelectronics, telecommunication, software engineering or medical physics, but also in an even wider range of areas where advanced numeracy is a distinct advantage – such as scientific civil service, finance or climate science. Students pursuing research in astrophysics also might consider areas specifically requiring astrophysicists such as space science, or satellite and deep space communications.

Please see the departmental website for the current research interests of staff https://www.maynoothuniversity.ie/experimental-physics/our-research