Project Overview
About the Position
Two fully funded PhD positions are available exploring what happens when textbook assumptions about near-field waves are removed.
| Opportunity | Fully Funded PhD Studentship: Near-Field Wave Physics (ERC ATLANTIS Project) |
| Host | King's College London |
| Location | London, United Kingdom |
| Study Level | PhD |
| Funding | Fully Funded |
| Stipend | Maintenance stipend + tuition fees + additional research |
| Application Deadline | 1 November 2026, 00:00 GMT |
| Apply | Official application page ↗ |
Funding detail: Maintenance stipend + tuition fees + additional research funding
Basic Information
- Full Project Title: Near-Field Wave Physics (ERC ATLANTIS Project)
- Host Institution: King's College London
- Department: Physics / Engineering
- Study Level: PhD
- Duration: 3.5 years
- Start Date: 2026/27
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Stipend: Maintenance stipend + tuition fees
- Additional Funding: Conference/workshop attendance, training, collaboration visits, publication costs, research software
- Eligibility: Open to all nationalities
- Application Deadline: Open (as of late July 2026)
Project Overview & Significance
This is a rare opportunity to engage in fundamental wave physics research funded by the European Research Council (ERC) under the ATLANTIS project. Hosted by the Department of Physics and Engineering at King's College London, this project pushes the boundaries of conventional physics. It challenges the standard textbook assumptions about near-field waves. Near-field physics is crucial for advancements in metamaterials, advanced sensing, and high-resolution imaging. By removing traditional assumptions, the research aims to uncover new physical phenomena and methodologies that could revolutionise how we manipulate and understand wave-matter interactions at the nanoscale.
Research Themes & Objectives
The successful candidates will investigate the fundamental limits and behaviours of near-field waves in complex media. The research will likely involve theoretical modelling, computational simulations, and potentially experimental validation. Key areas of interest include the engineering of metamaterials with exotic properties, the development of super-resolution sensing technologies, and novel imaging techniques that surpass the diffraction limit. The project is inherently fundamental, meaning it seeks to answer deep physical questions that have broad downstream applications in telecommunications, medical imaging, and materials science.
Training & Development
Funded by the ERC ATLANTIS project, these PhD positions come with exceptional financial support that goes far beyond a standard stipend. Students will have dedicated funding for conference and workshop attendance, allowing them to present their findings to the international scientific community. Additional funding covers training activities, international collaboration and dissemination visits, publication costs in high-impact journals, and access to specialised research software. Candidates will be trained in advanced computational techniques, theoretical physics, and research methodologies, positioning them for leading roles in academia or high-tech industries.
Eligibility and Requirements
Applicants must hold a minimum of an undergraduate degree with a 2:1 honours in physics, engineering, or a closely related subject. A strong background in electromagnetism, wave theory, or computational physics is highly desirable. Given the fundamental nature of the research, candidates should demonstrate a deep curiosity, strong analytical skills, and the ability to tackle complex, abstract problems.
Contact
Questions about this position, eligibility or the application process should be raised through the contact channel given on the official announcement page (see the Official Link section above). Always quote the position reference in your message so the admissions or HR team can route your enquiry quickly.
Official Link
Full announcement and application portal: https://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate-research/areas/physics-research-mphil-phd
Source: kcl.ac.uk - the details in this listing were recorded from this official page.
Important Notes
- Application deadline: 1 November 2026, 00:00 GMT - late or incomplete applications are normally not considered.
- Listing details were recorded from the official source at the time of publication; always confirm the latest requirements on the official page before applying.
- Prepare the documents listed in the eligibility and application sections before starting the online form - transcripts, CV and references take the longest to collect.
About King's College London
King's College London is a public research university and a Russell Group member. Its undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes span medicine, law, humanities, psychology, science and other disciplines. With campuses across central London, King's connects academic study and research with healthcare institutions, cultural organisations and wider questions affecting contemporary society.
Official website: https://www.kcl.ac.uk/
How to Apply
Prospective candidates should apply via the relevant Physics or Engineering PhD programme at King's College London. It is recommended to check the "Fully Funded PhD for International Students" listing on FindAPhD for exact project details and to contact the prospective supervisor directly to discuss research alignment prior to applying. Please quote '1029' when applying as the funding code/reference.
Application guides
Frequently asked questions
Drawn from this listing's own record. Always confirm the details on the official source before applying.
What is the deadline for Fully Funded PhD Studentship: Near-Field Wave Physics (ERC ATLANTIS Project)?
The application deadline is 1 November 2026 (1 November 2026, 00:00 GMT). Applications received after that date are not considered, so treat it as a hard cut-off (Europe/London time) and leave time for references and transcripts. Closing time not specified — confirm with the provider before you leave it until the last day: the source names Europe/London but gives no clock time.
Is Fully Funded PhD Studentship: Near-Field Wave Physics (ERC ATLANTIS Project) fully funded?
This is a fully funded award: tuition is covered and a living stipend is provided for the duration of the programme. £23,805/year (UKRI minimum + London weighting, 2026/27).
Who is eligible to apply for Fully Funded PhD Studentship: Near-Field Wave Physics (ERC ATLANTIS Project)?
This opportunity is open to applicants worldwide. Host-country status is not a requirement, although you must still satisfy the visa rules for United Kingdom. Applications are assessed by King's College London.
How do I apply for Fully Funded PhD Studentship: Near-Field Wave Physics (ERC ATLANTIS Project)?
Applications for Fully Funded PhD Studentship: Near-Field Wave Physics (ERC ATLANTIS Project) are submitted directly to King's College London through the provider's own application portal — use the Apply button on this page to open it. NextApply does not process applications or charge a fee.
Is an English proficiency test required for Fully Funded PhD Studentship: Near-Field Wave Physics (ERC ATLANTIS Project)?
Yes — an English-language certificate is required for this listing. Check the exact band expected on the official source, since it can differ by programme. Requirements for United Kingdom are published by the provider.
What study level does Fully Funded PhD Studentship: Near-Field Wave Physics (ERC ATLANTIS Project) offer?
This listing is offered at PhD level. That describes the qualification on offer, not a credential you must already hold — check the provider's stated entry requirements before applying.