Prospective Graduate Student FAQ

Is the HEP group offering new PhD projects for October 2013?

Yes. We will be offering projects in particle physics theory, and to work on the ATLAS and LHCb experiments at the Large Hadron Collider at CERN. Theory projects are likely to be in one of the group's current research areas listed on the Theory group homepage. Experimental projects are likely to be in one of the group's current research areas in ATLAS or LHCb. The details of the group's current research areas on ATLAS can be found via the Cambridge ATLAS homepage. The details of the group's current research areas on LHCb can be found via the Cambridge LHCb homepage. (The interviews for prospective students for entry in October 2012 were held on Thursday 26th of January 2012.) (back to top)

How does the application procedure work?

Applications are made to the Cavendish Laboratory (see Cavendish Admissions in the sidebar). If you specify HEP as your area of interest, the form will be passed on to the group for consideration. Those candidates who meet our academic criteria will be invited for interview (see below). After interview, we select the best candidates for our available projects, and those are "accepted" by the group, and the form returned to the Admissions office. Note that "accepted" by the group does not guarantee place - the University conditions must also be met, and we must be satisfied that you have adequate funding, the correct visa status etc. (back to top)

What are the University conditions?

The University requires that you demonstrate that you have sufficient funding to complete the course, and that you are accepted by a College. Entry to a College is normally a formality, although you may not get into the College of your choice. The University may impose other conditions such as academic and language conditions and sometimes supplying original documents can also be set as a condition. (back to top)

How much funding do I need?

The University Board of Graduate Studies provides information on costs here. Be aware that the figures provided are the absolute minimum needed. In addition, applicants for experimental HEP projects should be aware that a lot of travel to CERN is involved in our work. Students are normally based in Geneva for one year during their course, and travel regularly to CERN during their time in Cambridge. A week trip to CERN costs around £500. Living costs in Geneva are similar to Cambridge, but it is wise to allow for some extra costs for moving, and to insure against changes in currency exchange rates. The HEP group has very limited travel funds, so students should ensure that their financial package can support the necessary travel. (back to top)

Does the HEP Group offer funding for PhD studies?

The group normally has funding from the Science and Technology Facilities Council for around 3 students. These awards cover fees, maintenance and travel to CERN. UK citizens are eligible for the full award, and EU citizens are eligible for partial awards. See details here. (back to top)

Are there other sources of funding?

Cambridge University has various Trust funds which offer funding for PhD studies, including the Gates Cambridge Trust. The University admissions pages offer the latest information on these opportunities. Note that candidates are advised to apply at least one year before the date on which they intend to begin their studies. The Cambridge Colleges also offer Research Studentships. Details can be found on their web pages. (back to top)

Does the HEP Group offer MPhil places?

The Experimental Group does not offer MPhil courses. The Theory Group only offers MPhil places in exceptional circumstances. (back to top)

When will you interview students for entry in October 2013?

The 25th January 2013 is the best date to plan for. (The interviews for prospective students for entry in October 2012 were held on the 26th of January 2012.) (back to top)

What happens during the interview?

You will be given the opportunity to meet our existing graduate students and post-docs who will show you around the group facilities, and discuss day-to-day life. You will also meet the staff members who are offering projects to discuss the work involved. (back to top)

Do I need to prepare for the interview?

No. The staff will have copies of your application, including your CV. They will ask you questions about the courses or projects you have completed, but we do not set any formal tests. (back to top)

How can I get to the open day?

Check our information pages, for details on how to get to the Cavendish Laboratory. (back to top)