Numerical simulations of Lattice QCD

The QCD theory describes the interaction of quarks and gluons. At low energy only bound states of quarks, such as the proton, are observed experimentally. The best way to solve QCD for the properties of the bound states of quarks is to discretize the theory by putting it on a lattice. The resulting equations are solved numerically using specialized Monte Carlo techniques. There are many applications that require the solution of QCD so that the standard model of particle physics can be tested, for example to help analyze experimental results from the LHC or the experiment to measure the properties of the muon at the Fermilab particle physics laboratory in the USA. The main project for the student will be the computation of the properties of hadrons using lattice QCD and high performance computers. The PhD student will further investigate the use of AI in the analysis part of a lattice QCD calculation by using techniques such as Gaussian Processes.

The University has recently invested just over £1 million in a new High Performance Computing (HPC) cluster , which the student will use for their research. The student will also have access to large HPC systems run by DIRAC. The student will be trained in using HPC by the supervision team and at national training events. The theory group at the University of Plymouth are part of the Virtual Centre for UK Lattice Field Theory (UKLFT) and the student would participate in the activities of the Centre.

Applicants should have a first or upper second class honours degree in an appropriate subject and preferably a relevant Masters qualification. Applications from both UK and overseas students are welcome.

The studentship is supported for 3.5 years and includes full Home tuition fees, Bench fee plus a stipend of £20,780 per annum 2025/26 rate. The funding for the studentship is subject to confirmation by STFC. The studentship will only fully fund those applicants who are eligible for Home fees with relevant qualifications. Applicants normally required to cover International fees will have to cover the difference between the Home and the International tuition fee rates. The international component of the fee may be waived for outstanding international applicants.

There is no additional funding available to cover NHS Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) costs, visa costs, flights etc.

NB: The studentship is supported for 3.5 years of the four-year registration period.

If you wish to discuss this project further informally, please contact Dr Craig McNeile by email: craig.mcneile@plymouth.ac.uk.

To apply, please complete the online application. For your application to be considered, please include the following documents with your application:

Please see our apply for a postgraduate research programme page for a list of supporting documents to upload with your application.

For more information on the admissions process generally, please visit our apply for a postgraduate research programme page or contact the Doctoral College .

The closing date for applications is 12 noon on 27 June 2025. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview shortly thereafter. We regret that we may not be able to respond to all applications. Applicants who have not received a response within six weeks of the closing date should consider their application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.