The Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Kentucky is composed of 30 full-time faculty members, more than 80 graduate students and more than 20 research, technical, and administrative staff members. Research in the department is divided into several broad areas:
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Astronomy and Astrophysics.
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Condensed Matter Physics, Nuclear Physics.
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High Energy Physics, which includes Particle Theory and Quantum Information.
Within each of these areas, graduate students can complete both course work and individual thesis research projects leading to the M.S. and Ph.D. degrees. See Physics and Astronomy Faculty Research for a description of individual faculty research programs.
Our graduate program has a strong track record of preparing students for successful careers in academia, national laboratories, industry, and beyond. Our alumni pursue postdoctoral and faculty positions as well as careers outside academia, reflecting the program’s emphasis on rigorous training and independent research supported by close mentorship and collaboration. A list of recent graduates and their placements can be found here.
Our department prides itself on its inclusive and supportive atmosphere, and we welcome students with diverse backgrounds, perspectives and experiences.
The University of Kentucky, located in Lexington, was founded in 1865 and is the state's comprehensive land grant institution. It is classified by the Carnegie Foundation as a Research I University. As the premier university in Kentucky, it is particularly charged with responsibility for professional and graduate training in all fields. Approximately 38,000 students are currently enrolled on the Lexington campus, a 350 acre site within easy walking distance of downtown Lexington. Of these students, about 25 percent (around 10,000) are enrolled in graduate or professional schools.