Department of Physics - Oxford University

We apply the transformative power of physics to the foremost scientific problems; educate the next generation of leading physicists; and promote the public understanding of physics.

Research
Study
Engage
Image to represent quantum computing

The future is quantum

Find out how our research is building the quantum technologies of tomorrow, how we are educating and inspiring future pioneers of quantum technology and how our research is being applied to real life, right now...

Quantum at Oxford

Latest news and comment

See all news and commentary

Upcoming events

5 December 2025
Two research scientists over a laser table
Events for prospective students
Undergraduate events
Graduate events

Atomic and Laser Physics Graduate Open Day 2025

The University of Oxford Atomic and Laser Physics (ALP) sub-department is holding an open day for prospective DPhil applicants.

Read more
8 December 2025
The eight toroid magnets can be seen surrounding the calorimeter that is later moved into the middle of the detector. This calorimeter will measure the energies of particles produced when protons collide in the centre of the detector.
Events for prospective students
Undergraduate events
Graduate events

Particle Physics graduate open day 2025

Prospective graduate students can join this online event to find out more about a DPhil in particle physics.

Read more
8 December 2025
Open Day Poster
Events for prospective students
Undergraduate events
Graduate events

Astrophysics graduate open day 2025

Prospective graduate students can join this online event to find out more about a DPhil in Astrophysics..

Read more
9 December 2025
Quantum laboratory equipment
Secondary school events

Quantum Technology Impact Day 2025

An event for young people in Year 10 to explore the impact that quantum technology will have on our lives

Read more
See all upcoming events
Department of Physics

Our research

Our researchers change the world: our understanding of it and how we live in it. We explore the fundamentals – how we got here and the secrets of the universe – as well as the practical from developing next-gen materials to pushing the frontiers of quantum and predicting the future for our planet. 

Discover more

Launch your studies

Our dynamic programme of outstanding research as well as our specialist research facilities, collaborative research networks and international renown attract the brightest minds from around the world. Come and join them.
Undergraduate students in a lecture theatre
Undergraduate
Postgraduate students talking around a blackboard
Postgraduate
Man holding scientific instrument
We work with businesses to share expertise, develop new ideas, provide services and commercialise research and our strong links with business are fundamental to how we work.
For business
Drawing of crystals
We want to spark a passion for physics in young people and we work directly with primary and secondary schools on a local and national scale to encourage physics for all. We want to inspire the physicists of tomorrow.
For schools
Man talking outside with people in background and foreground
We organise a wide range of public events not only to share our passion for physics but also to help people understand our work and see how our research impacts lives.
For the community
Female scientist

Giving

How to support the Department of Physics

Find out how you can support our world-class scientific research and teaching and help the Department of Physics to tackle some of the most urgent and fascinating challenges we face today

Find out more
Alumni of the Department of Physics at an event

Alumni

Once a physicist, always a physicist...

Our alumni relations office exists to nurture and develop long-lasting relationships between students, staff and friends of the Department of Physics so please do get in touch with ideas, feedback or just to say hello!

Find out more