University of Southampton researchers work to better understand the universe at every scale, from the subatomic to the cosmological. We inspire and educate the next generation of scientists in astronomy, theoretical particle physics, and quantum science and technology. Our reputation stems from advanced facilities, strong industry partnerships and an active and engaged research community.
Part of the University’s Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, the School of Physics and Astronomy has nearly 100 academic staff. We work to better understand the most fundamental physical laws, how they influence the evolution of the universe, and how that knowledge might be used to improve our lives.
For physics and astronomy, we’re ranked in the top 5 among Russell Group schools and departments.
Our research groups and research community benefit from:
a supportive and inclusive research environment
strong partnerships with industry
advanced facilities such as the characterisation equipment and other resources in our nanofabrication centre’s clean room
An astronomy student uses one of our observatories.
Our research
Our research is outstanding, with 92% of outputs assessed as world leading or internationally excellent in the Research Excellence Framework 2021. One hundred percent of our research was judged world leading or internationally excellent for its impact on society.
We cultivate a supportive and inclusive environment that encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and the exchange of ideas and insights.
Our research is carried out by our research groups, each focusing on a particular theme.
Astronomy
This research group studies the Universe at all scales from our own Sun and planets in our Solar System, to exploding stars, distant galaxies and black holes.
High Energy Physics
This research group studies the mathematical foundations that describe nature from the smallest scales studied at particle colliders to the largest describing the evolution of the universe.
Quantum, Light and Matter
This research group aims to advance our fundamental understanding of quantum physics. Much of the research focuses on the themes of nanostructuring, optical control and quantum coherence.
Our teaching
We’re dedicated to high quality, research-led, teaching that benefits our students’ careers.
Our partnership with the South East Physics Network gives our students access to relevant paid placement opportunities within a wide range of local organisations.
These offerings are unique to the University of Southampton with a focus of forward looking skill requirements in research and industry.
Our impact
Our theoretical particle physics group collaborates closely with scientists at CERN (European Organisation for Nuclear Research) on findings related to the discovery of the Higgs boson. Professor Andreas Jüttner was awarded a £1 million European Research Council grant for work in this area.
Our work with low-frequency array (LOFAR) telescopes attracted €5 million in funding.
Two researchers in the Quantum, Light and Matter group were awarded Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council Early Career Fellowships. These were the only 2 such fellowships awarded in the UK that year. We achieved this by collaborating with the School of Electronics and Computer Science and the Optoelectronics Research Centre, using our clean room facilities.
Over the last decade we’ve hosted:
7 Royal Society University Research Fellowships
4 European Research Council grants
3 Science and Technology Facilities Council Ernest Rutherford Fellowships
3 Stephen Hawking Postdoctoral Fellowships
3 Leverhulme Senior Research Fellowships
1 University Anniversary Fellowship
Equality, diversity and inclusion
We strive to create an open and inclusive workplace culture that benefits everyone who works and studies here. We work to ensure that our school offers all staff and students equal opportunities and that the people who work and study here reflect society at large.
Our commitment to these principles and goals is evidenced by:
our participation in the pilot of the IOP Physics Inclusion Award, where we were recognised as "committed" to inclusion in Physics.
our involvement as a partner of Planet Possibility, which aims to encourage young people in the UK, especially those from underrepresented groups, to pursue careers in physics
our independently run Women's Physics Network and LGBT+ Network to provide discussion and support
Our Athena SWAN Silver Award demonstrate our commitment to gender equality.
We’re uncovering the secrets of the universe, from the smallest scales to beyond our cosmic neighbourhood, and use our knowledge to develop technology that solves the challenges of today and tomorrow.
The School of Physics and Astronomy has been a dynamic and friendly department. In my time as chair of the equity, diversity and inclusion team, school leadership have been enthusiastic about helping us make this a supportive place to work and study.
