Physics and Astronomy | Physics and Astronomy

We are 4th in the UK for world-leading research publications*
Based on 4* research in REF 2021

99% of our Physics research outputs are internationally excellent
Based on research outputs rated 4* and 3* in REF 2021

93% of our Physics research is internationally excellent
Based on research rated 4* and 3* in REF 2021

This image shows the exoplanet HIP 65425 b in different bands of infrared light, as seen from the James Webb Space Telescope. Image credit: NASA/ESA/CSA, A Carter (UCSC), the ERS 1386 team, and A. Pagan (STScI)

First exoplanet image from James Webb Space Telescope revealed

Breaking Boundaries: Using microscopy to detect microplastics in sea life

Diverse portfolio of Physics degree programmes, both single subject and multidisciplinary

Search PhD opportunities available through our £2.5million investment in STEM graduate research

Successful research and business relationships with leading global companies

Internationally excellent research ranging from quantum behaviour in nanomaterials to the age of stars

Progressive culture supported by continuous investment in facilities and people

All BSc and MPhys degrees are accredited by the Institute of Physics

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Research and industry

Gaia helps discover directly imaged planet undergoing nuclear fusion

Quest to uncover intricacies of exoplanet atmospheres reaches important milestone

First exoplanet image from James Webb Space Telescope revealed

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Tuesday 30 May 2023: Modelling turbulent and drag processes in the atmosphere

Annelize Van Niekerk - ECMWF

Harrison 004 14:30-15:30

Tuesday 06 Jun 2023: Non-quasigeostrophic and non-adiabatic sources of upper tropospheric wave activity

Hung-I Lee - U. Chicago

Harrison 004 (virtual presenter) 14:30-15:30

Thursday 08 Jun 2023: Interstellar Magnetic Fields: From Star Formation to Galaxy Evolution

Kate Pattle - UCL

Physics building, 4th floor 14:00-15:00

Wednesday 14 Jun 2023: Astrophysics Seminar 2022 - 2023

Timothy Cunningham - Warwick University

Physics building, 4th floor 14:00-15:00

Wednesday 21 Jun 2023: Astrophysics Seminar 2022 - 2023

Anna Penzlin - Imperial College London

Physics building, 4th floor 14:00-15:00

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Physics and Astronomy at the University of Exeter is a vibrant academic community dedicated to delivering world-class teaching and research.

We provide a stimulating and supportive environment for our undergraduates, using research-led teaching to expose them to ideas at the cutting edge of our subject. Physics is a global activity that cuts across both academia and business, and we have programmes that reflect this, enabling students to study abroad or gain valuable experience by undertaking a professional placement.

Our research encompasses a broad range of experimental, computational, and theoretical physics, with research groups in electromagnetic and acoustic materials, quantum systems and nanomaterials, biomedical physics, and astrophysics.

Research projects range from the study of thermodynamics in the quantum regime, to the atmospheres of exoplanets and the diagnosis and treatment of cancer using nanoparticles. We also work closely with non-academic partners, including the electronics and defence industries, as well as the Met Office and NHS Trusts.

Professor Tim Harries, Head of Physics and Astronomy