Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Applied Physics

Research in the Department of Physics and Astronomy is thriving at Iowa State. We have major research efforts in condensed matter physics, the physics of biological systems, high energy particle physics, nuclear physics, particle astrophysics, and astronomy, with excellent opportunities for both graduate and undergraduate students. Our condensed matter and biophysics research efforts are greatly enhanced by the presence of the Department of Energy's Ames Laboratory on the Iowa State University campus (literally next door to the Department of Physics and Astronomy). Many of our faculty hold cross-appointments with Ames Lab, and DOE staff scientists often work with our graduate students. Conduct original research. Our graduate students will conduct high-quality, original research in a specific field of physicsastronomy. This includes developing the ability to understand scholarly literature, to articulate research objectives, and to interpret research results appropriately. Attain knowledge of physicsastronomy. Our graduate students will obtain a sound foundation in advanced physicsastronomy and in the advanced experimental, observational, and computational techniques required for their research. They will also obtain a broad understanding of other fields of physicsastronomy beyond their research specialty. Develop professionalism. Our graduate students will conduct scholarship and teaching, in teams or independently, in ways that consistently demonstrate ethical practice and integrity. They will develop proficiency in written and verbal communication of complex scientific topics at the level required for presenting results in refereed journals and at scientific conferences.

4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent). Academic Records/Transcripts. Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement).