Physics Research Project II (MSci) module (PH50007)

In this module, you will work like a professional researcher, carrying out an in-depth physics research project on a real scientific problem within an active research area. Building on your Level 4 project, you will take greater ownership of your work and develop a higher level of independence.

Your project may be experimental, computational, theoretical, or a combination of all three, often within a research group at the forefront of discovery. You could work on topics such as renewable energy, photonics, astrophysics, condensed matter, computational biophysics, or medical physics, contributing to research with real-world impact.

You will apply the knowledge and skills developed across your degree to solve complex, open-ended problems, gaining experience in designing investigations, analysing data, and communicating results.

By the end of this module, you will have developed the confidence, independence, and professional skills needed to move into research, industry, or further study.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• develop in-depth knowledge in a chosen area of physics
• plan and carry out an independent research project
• design and implement experimental, computational, or theoretical investigations
• apply appropriate ethics, and health and safety considerations
• strengthen your problem-solving, time management, and research skills

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• present and defend your work in a professional poster presentation
• produce a substantial, high-quality written research report
• communicate complex ideas clearly to both specialists and non-specialists
• work effectively both independently and as part of a research environment

Assignments / assessment

• Coursework (100%)
  • Dissertation
  • Poster presentation
  • Project talk
  • Viva with two academics

This module does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods / timetable

Day-to-day project work is driven by you, giving you the freedom to shape your research and take ownership of your project. You will be supported by a supervisor who will guide your progress, while weekly seminars expose you to a wide range of current physics research. 

Compared to your Level 4 project, you will be expected to produce work of greater depth, independence, and quality.