We in the nuclear and particle physics group do research into the smallest building blocks in the universe; the elementary particles. We consider the forces working upon and between them and the quantum structure of the particle systems they create. Another important aspect of our research is to understand the behaviour of matter under extreme conditions, or even nuclei at the temperatures reach within stars and supernovae. We also study very exotic nuclei with an extreme mismatch between the number of protons and neutrons.
Choose between two specializations
You will choose to specialize within either Nuclear or High-energy physics. The theoretical curriculum and your thesis depends on which specialization you choose. A common trait between both is that our research groups play a leading role in many international research projects. This work is done both in our local cyclotron laboratory and at large laboratories in other countries, such as CERN. A thesis with us affords you the opportunity to participate in international research already in your first semester.
It is up to you if you wish to do experimental, numerical or theoretical work, or any combination of these. Theses in our group will often have their results presented in, or as part of, scientific publications. You can also write a thesis in conjecture with the Biological and Medical Physics group if your interests lie in the intersection between nuclear and medical physics.
No matter which subject you research for your thesis, and whether it is theoretical, experimental or computational, you will learn how to cooperate in an international group and to take charge of your own research. You will also learn how to present scientific results, both in a written and oral form. We arrange weekly meetings where you can present your recent data to the group.
International co-operation
Students from Nuclear physics work in connection with cyclotron at UiO, iThemba LABS in South Africa, ISOLDE at CERN, UCBerkeley in USA or RIKEN in Japan. They will partake in planning and conducting experiments where they get their data to analyze. A student within nuclear physics will get the opportunity to travel for shorter or longer periods of time to USA, Japan, South Africa and/or CERN. The group has a close co-operation with other groups within astrophysics and biophysics, both at UiO and internationally. You will be able to co-operate with these groups.
Students within high-energy particle physics work in international co-operations related to CERN, with e.g. particle data analysis, development of semiconductor detectors, advanced data science or accelerators. You will have good opportunities for shorter or longer periods of time at CERN or other international research facilities. You may also do a master project in co-operation with theoretical physics and astrophysics when the project intercepts particle physics and theoretical physics or astrophysics.
Study environment
A positive learning environment is important for a student to thrive. We arrange weekly meetings within the group and weekly project meetings where the academic staff and students discuss recent and ongoing research, and any arising challenges. This fosters a good community, making new students and employees feel like part of the group from their first day. We wish for a good study environment and expect our students to be present in the study room to ensure our goal.
Many of the students and staff also spend their free time together, in activities such as quiz, dinner, trips to the mountain and sports.