PhD Opportunities in Physics, Earth & Climate Sciences, and Astrophysics

The Department of Physics at the University of Otago invites applications for its 2027 PhD programme. We are looking for motivated students to join our research groups in physics, astrophysics and space sciences, and Earth and climate sciences.

About the department and programme Otago is New Zealand’s oldest university and a leading centre for research-led teaching in the physical sciences. Within Physics, our PhD students work closely with academic staff in small, collaborative groups, with access to high-performance computing, laboratory facilities, and national and international collaborations. We offer a supportive, collegial atmosphere with regular group meetings, seminars, and opportunities to present work at international conferences. 

Full details of available PhD projects, supervisors, and the application process are maintained on our departmental PhD opportunities website:

https://blogs.otago.ac.nz/physicsnews/phd-opportunities/

Role Description This full-time, on-site PhD opportunity is based in Dunedin. Doctoral candidates will design and carry out independent and collaborative research projects, including developing research questions, conducting experiments or simulations, and analysing complex data sets. Daily activities include reviewing scientific literature, attending seminars and group meetings, working with supervisors and research teams, and contributing to publications and conference presentations.

We welcome applications in a wide range of areas, including but not limited to:

· Ultracold quantum gases and quantum many-body physics

· Quantum optics, photonics and solid-state quantum devices

· Active and complex matter and emergent collective behaviour

· Statistical and computational physics for complex data

· Astrophysical and space plasmas

· Space environment, space weather and technological impacts

· Magnetic confinement fusion energy

· Antarctic atmosphere and upper-atmosphere physics

· Sea ice, ocean–ice interactions and Southern Hemisphere climate dynamics

The current list of specific PhD projects and supervisors is updated regularly on our website; applicants are encouraged to browse these and contact potential supervisors for an informal discussion.

The application deadline for the 2027 round is 18 September 2026.

Qualifications

• Have, or expect to complete before starting, a Master’s degree or equivalent 4-year honours degree in physics or a closely related discipline (e.g. applied mathematics, engineering physics, geophysics, astronomy/astrophysics)
• Strong academic record and clear motivation to pursue independent research.

How to apply

Visit https://blogs.otago.ac.nz/physicsnews/home/phd-opportunities/ and follow the link to the application submission form.