physics
Research covers topics in the fields of atomic and molecular science as well as semiconductor and condensed matter physics.
Includes research on: bio-photonics, diffractive optics, nonlinear photonics, photon counting technologies, ultrafast optics.
Physics at Heriot-Watt University is strongly research oriented and we are one of the founding members of the Scottish Universities Physics Alliance. Our research interests are wide ranging and include semiconductor physics, optoelectronics, material science, ultrafast and nonlinear physics, and nano-physics. This influence is reflected in our undergraduate and postgraduate degrees, and we offer a range of courses at BSc, Honours, MPhys and MSc levels. In addition to offering traditional research Doctorates we also offer an industry focused Engineering Doctorate in Photonics.
Postgraduate teaching and research in the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences is organised by our Graduate School. The School comprises nearly 200 research-active academic staff and research associates, working with around 600 postgraduate research students and students on advanced level courses. The School spans the boundaries between the traditionally distinct academic disciplines of: chemical engineering; chemistry; electrical, electronic and computer engineering; mechanical engineering; and physics. This diversity reflects the interdisciplinary nature of research and associated industries, taking full advantage of the interactions between science and engineering.
The School of Engineering and Physical Sciences is built around the established subjects of chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical, electronic and computer engineering, chemistry and physics, and our courses are designed to meet the needs of students and their future employers, offering the highest degree of flexibility and choice within the wide range of topics available. The School enjoys an international reputation for its research and its close connection with the professional and industrial world of science, engineering and technology, reflecting the importance that the University attaches to the quality of its teaching, research and student support.
The Scottish Universities Physics Alliance (SUPA), brings together physicists from Heriot-Watt, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Paisley, St Andrews and Strathclyde universities, creating the largest such grouping in the UK with over 200 academic physicists.
The School of Engineering and Physical Sciences embraces the subjects of Chemistry, Physics, Electrical, Electronic and Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Chemical Engineering. The School offers undergraduate courses in all of these subjects individually and with a range of specialist options, as well as innovative interdisciplinary courses bringing together specialisations from different subjects. Full course details can be viewed here along with further information on flexible learning, student profiles and specific contact information.




