PhD Opportunities in Physics, Earth 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.

Fields of research

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
• 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.

Who should apply

We invite applications from candidates who:

• 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), and
• have a strong academic record and clear motivation to pursue independent research

We welcome applications from international candidates.

Funding and support

Successful applicants will be nominated for department-level or University of Otago PhD scholarships that cover university fees and provide a stipend for the 3-year PhD. Top candidates will also be considered for the departmental Beverly PhD Prize, which provides additional stipend support for the duration of the PhD.

We encourage prospective students to contact potential supervisors early to discuss project options and funding possibilities.

How to apply

To apply for the 2027 PhD round, please:

1. Visit our website and follow the link to the application submission form.
2. Prepare one combined pdf, to be uploaded in the submission form, with:
   • a one-page statement of interest explaining your goals, interest in Otago for a PhD, and the project or projects that most interest you and why;
   • an academic CV of no more than three pages; and
   • your academic transcripts and an explanation of the relevant grading scale.

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

Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for an online interview. For informal enquiries about individual projects, you are encouraged to reach out directly to the associated staff member.

The University of Otago and the Department of Physics are committed to building a diverse, inclusive research community. We warmly encourage applications from candidates of all genders, backgrounds, and nationalities.

Join us in Dunedin to pursue cutting-edge research in physics, astronomy, and Earth and climate sciences, while enjoying one of the most beautiful outdoor environments in the world.