The School of Physics and Astronomy's performance in the Research Excellence Framework (REF), the system for assessing the quality of research in the UK higher education institutions, has highlighted that 90% of research outputs in the School were rated as world-leading or internationally excellent.
The School of Physics and Astronomy’s performance in the Research Excellence Framework (REF), the system for assessing the quality of research in the UK higher education institutions, has highlighted that 90% of research outputs in the School were rated as world-leading or internationally excellent.
Professor Andy Schofield, Head of School, commented: “The REF results - particularly their affirming verdict on the quality of our research papers – have been announced at an exciting time for our School as we are developing a national hub in Quantum Technology meaning we will be leading the creation of new knowledge and discoveries in this exciting field. Our main research priorities in the School are Particle and Nuclear Physics, Quantum Matter, Metamaterials and Nanoscale Science, and Astronomy – in all our research areas we have very talented researchers working at the very leading-edge in their fields. An example of the impact our research is having can be seen through our outreach work in local schools and in the media which are brought to life by researchers involved in the cutting edge of their disciplines”.
The School of Physics and Astronomy is part of the University’s College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, which draws together research strengths across the academic schools to focus on the wider research themes of Advanced Manufacturing, Science Frontiers, and Resilience, Energy and Sustainability.
Professor John Bridgeman, College Director of Research, said: “The School of Physics and Astronomy is pushing the boundaries of knowledge in the frontiers of science, to ever higher levels. Discovering and understanding the various length scales of nature and the application of this knowledge to other disciplines in the science and engineering fields, allows us to make a positive difference to society, industry and our environment”
Learn more about the School of Physics and Astronomy’s research strengths and the over-arching College research themes.
