Quantum String Theory: Fully Funded PhD Studentship in Black Hole Microstates, Integrable Systems, and Quantum String Theory

Understanding black holes at the quantum level is one of the most profound challenges in theoretical physics. This project seeks to explore the microscopic origins of black hole entropy, the dynamics of black hole microstates, and their effective descriptions using cutting-edge techniques in string theory and integrable systems. Recent breakthroughs, including connections between integrable deformations and six-dimensional holomorphic Chern-Simons theory, offer a new lens to analyse the quantum structure of spacetime. The aim is to develop a quantum framework to describe black hole microstates, linking tools from integrability, holography, and quantum string theory.

Candidates will have the opportunity to investigate applications ranging from black hole thermodynamics to the emergence of spacetime geometry, contributing to fundamental questions about quantum gravity.

Eligibility

Candidates must hold a UK bachelor’s degree with a minimum of a Upper Second Class honours or overseas bachelor’s degree deemed equivalent to UK Bachelor (by UK ECCTIS) and achieved a grade equivalent to UK Upper Second Class honours – see country specific qualifications

OR a master’s degree with a minimum overall grade at ‘Merit’ (or Non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University).

IELTS 6.5 overall (with at least 6.0 in each individual component) or a Swansea recognised equivalent. Details on the Swansea University English Language entry policy can be found here.

ATAS

Please note that the programme requires some applicants to hold ATAS clearance, further details on ATAS scheme eligibility are available on the UK Government website. 

ATAS clearance IS NOT required to be held as part of the scholarship application process, successful award winners (as appropriate) are provided with details as to how to apply for ATAS clearance in tandem with scholarship course offer.

Funding Details

Funding Comment

This scholarship covers the full cost of tuition fees and an annual stipend at UKRI rate (currently £19,237 for 2024/25). 

Additional research expenses of up to £1,000 per year will also be available.

Scholarship open to UK and international fee eligible applicants.

STFC DTP studentships are available to home and international students. Up to 30% of our cohort can comprise international students, once the limit has been reached, we are unable to make offers to international students.

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