Research
Discover more about our world-leading research.
Our research groups cover five key areas: Astrophysics, nuclear physics, photonics and quantum sciences, radiation and medical physics, and soft matter, delivering internationally leading research, and providing hands-on research experience for our undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Research excellence
In the latest UK Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021), Surrey has risen 12 places since 2014 to 33rd in the UK for our research quality. We are also top 20 in the rankings for our research outputs.
Working across disciplines
We pride ourselves on our ability to connect pure science with technology and to work across the boundaries between disciplines. This is exemplified by the Advanced Technology Institute that brings together electronic engineers, chemical process engineers and physicists to solve grand challenge problems in quantum information, nanotechnology, energy and advanced materials; and our Leverhulme Quantum Biology Doctoral Training Centre, the first of its kind in the world.
Research groups
Doctoral Training Centre
Collaborations
The Department has many national and international collaborations, with both other universities and research institutes, and with companies. We have a strategic partnership with the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) in nearby Teddington. We also part of the South East Physics network (SEPnet), which includes the largest physics post graduate research school in England.
Study with us
If you're interested in doing a PhD, then take a look at what we have to offer here at Surrey.