Oxford Mmathphys P
Oxford Mmathphys P
Oxford Mmathphys P
in
Mathematical and Theoretical Physics
Course Handbook
20152016
Contents
1 Introduction
3 Admissions
3.1 Admission criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.2 Application procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
3.3 Other admissions requirements (for MSc applicants only) . .
3.4 Disability, health conditions, and specific learning difficulties
.
.
.
.
6
6
6
7
7
7
7
8
8
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
21
C Application procedure
24
Introduction
The Oxford Masters Course in Mathematical and Theoretical Physics fills a need to offer students a highlevel education in mathematical and theoretical physics. As the name suggests, the course concentrates on
the main areas of modern mathematical and theoretical physics: elementary-particle theory, including string
theory, condensed matter theory (both quantum and soft matter), theoretical astrophysics, plasma physics
and the physics of continuous media (including fluid dynamics and related areas usually associated with
Applied Mathematics programmes in the UK system). If you are a physics (or physics & philosophy) student
with a strong interest in theoretical physics or a mathematics student keen to apply high-level mathematics
to physical systems, this is a course for you.
The Masters Course in Mathematical and Theoretical Physics is offered in two modes, the MMathPhys
for Oxford students and the MSc for students from outside Oxford. The academic content is identical for
both modes. If you are an Oxford MPhys, MMath or MPhysPhil student, you are eligible to apply for
transfer to the MMathPhys programme for the fourth year of your study. If accepted, you will spend your
fourth year studying within the MMathPhys programme, rather than following the fourth year of your
original degree programme. You will graduate as a Master of Mathematical and Theoretical Physics with
a double classification consisting of the BA degree class in your original subject and an MMathPhys degree
class. If you are a student from outside Oxford with a Bachelor or masters degree in physics or mathematics
you can apply for the MSc mode, which leads to an MSc in Mathematical and Theoretical Physics.
Admission to the course is based on aptitude, potential and motivation to study mathematical and
theoretical physics. Evaluation criteria include the BA degree class (or equivalent), letters of reference,
personal statements and prior performance on mathematical and theoretical physics courses. A necessary
condition for admission to the course is a 2.i or higher degree class at BA level for MMathPhys applicants
or an equivalent qualification for MSc applicants. While this represents a minimum requirement it is not,
by itself, a sufficient condition for acceptance, since the degree class will be considered together with the
other indicators. It is anticipated that, in most cases, the students accepted into the course will have a 1st
class BA degree or equivalent.
The programme offers considerable choice. You will be able to study focusing on a specific subject area
or aim for a broader education across two or several fields, concentrate on mathematical or physical
aspects. Your aim may be to prepare yourself for doctoral-level research in a chosen area or to explore
theoretical physics broadly before deciding what to do. While the degree allows flexibility of choice, its
salient feature is the coherent structure of its main themes. This handbook contains a section on possible
pathways through the course, which can be found in Appendix B.
You will be required to take 10 units within the programme, with each unit corresponding to a 16-hour
lecture course. At least 4 of these units must be assessed by invigilated written examinations and have to
be covered by courses offering a written exam (typically the foundational courses, see below). This is, in
fact, the only formal constraint on course choices and you are otherwise free to design your own pathway,
although attention to the guidance offered to you is strongly encouraged. The remaining units will be
assessed on the basis of written course work, take home papers or mini-projects. In addition, you will give
an oral presentation towards the end of the course. Both the MMathPhys and MSc students will receive
a graduate-style distinction/pass/fail classification. Note that, for Oxford students on the MMathPhys
stream, this will be different from the 1st/2.1/2.2. . . degree classification they would have received had they
continued with their original degree.
MPhys and MMath courses in the UK both provide good undergraduate degrees with a broad overview
of physics and mathematics. It is widely felt, however, that neither provides an adequate foundation that
allows a student to proceed directly to research in modern mathematical and theoretical physics. Namely,
on the one hand, it is felt that, MPhys degrees no longer provide adequate theoretical and mathematical
training, while, on the other hand, MMath degrees provide the mathematical training but are weak in their
provision of quantum theory and classical field theory, which are the mainstays of a theoretical physicists
intuition. Yet other core subjects, such as quantum field theory, the standard model of particle physics,
cosmology, or kinetic theory of gases and plasmas are not taught at all or not at sufficient depth to prepare for
research in these, and related, areas. As a result, MPhys and MMath graduates have found the transition to
postgraduate research in mathematical and theoretical physics increasingly difficult. The present programme
is designed to resolve those problems. It provides a high-level, internationally competitive training in
mathematical and theoretical physics, right up to the level of modern research in the area. As a graduate
of this programme you should be well-prepared for PhD studies in an area of mathematical and theoretical
physics and in a prime position to secure a relevant PhD place.
The course will be offered for the first time in the academic year 2015/16. Oxford MMath, MPhys or
MPhysPhil students who are in their second year in the academic year 2013/14 are the first cohort eligible
to apply in the round of graduate applications in January 2015, to start the course in October 2015.
We hope that most of your questions are answered in the remainder of this handbook. If anything
remains unclear, please contact Mrs. Charlotte Turner-Smith at [email protected].
The programme consists of a large array of lecture courses covering the main areas of modern Theoretical/Mathematical Physics and Applied Mathematics. The courses are subdivided into three strands:
Theoretical Particle Physics,
Theoretical Condensed Matter Physics,
Theoretical Astrophysics, Plasma Physics and Physics of Continuous Media.
As various areas of Theoretical Physics are in fact, interconnected, routed in universal principles and thrive
on ideas that cross any sub-field boundaries, the programme offers a number of courses that are shared
between the three strands and emphasise the unity of Theoretical Physics. This applies especially to the
foundational courses offered in Michaelmas Term. These are followed by increasingly specialised courses
in Hilary and Trinity Terms, although those too will strive to make connections between subject areas.
Besides these Theoretical Physics courses, the programme offers, in Michaelmas and Hilary Terms, a range
of lecture courses teaching the underlying mathematical methods, as well as further mathematics courses
for the more mathematically oriented students. Lecture courses will normally be accompanied by problem
sets and problem classes. Note that, in any given year, the more specialised courses will be taught only if a
sufficient number of students attend.
An overview of the courses can be found in the table accompanying this section; their syllabi can be
found in Appendix A. You will have to attend at least 10 units worth of courses, with 1 unit corresponding
to 16 hours of lectures. In addition to the courses listed in the table, which are offered explicitly as part
of the MMathPhys/MSc programme, you will also be allowed to choose a maximum of three-units worth of
MMath Part B or C or MPhys Part C lecture courses that are not listed here, subject to approval by the
Director of Studies.
The programme offers considerable flexibility and choice. There are no courses that all or any students
are obliged to follow, and you will thus be able to choose a path reflecting your intellectual tastes or career
choices. This arrangement caters both to students who prefer a broad theoretical education across subject
areas and to those who have already firmly set their sights on one of the three subject areas (although they
too are encouraged to explore across sub-field boundaries). Studies can be pursued with stronger emphasis
on mathematical or on physical aspects.
Appendix B gives examples of different pathways through the course along with suggested prior courses
you might take during your BA degree. You will be offered detailed academic guidance from the Director
of Studies or an Academic Adviser designated by the Director of Studies on choosing an individual path
suitable for you (the choice is not restricted to the examples in Appendix B!). Course lecturers will also
advise on the recommended background for their courses or possible follow-up courses you might wish to
choose.
The programme does not offer a research project as its emphasis is on offering its students an opportunity to receive an intensive and thorough academic training, which is an indispensable pre-requisite for
a modern theoretical physicist or applied mathematician wishing to work on a level appropriate for PhD
research or a similar occupation. Indeed, most past and current PhD students in Theoretical/Mathematical
Physics or Applied Mathematics at the worlds leading research institutions have been educated in this way
(sometimes via Master-level programmes similar to this one and sometimes via coursework during the first
year of their doctoral degree). The present programme does, however, offer a substantial opportunity for
independent study and research in the form of an optional dissertation (worth 1 unit). The dissertation is
undertaken under the guidance of a member of staff and will typically involve investigating and then presenting in writing a particular area of Theoretical Physics or Mathematics, without the requirement (while
not excluding the possibility) of obtaining original results.
Red
: a course also taught (in some cases in part) as a Part C course in Physics, NN is its number;
Blue(M U :N N N ) : a course also taught as a Part B or C course in Mathematics, NNN is its number;
Purple(M G) : a course also taught as a PG course in Mathematics;
Black: an MMathPhys/MSc course, also taught as a PG course in Physics;
()
Physics
Perturbation Methods
(M U :C6.3a)
Scientific Computing I
(M G)
(16)
(12)
(M G)
(16)
Networks
(M U :C6.2b)
(16)
HT
Cosmology (16)
Cosmology (16)
(M U :C6.3b)
(M G)
Scientific Computing II
(16)
(12)
Turbulence () (16)
Critical Phenomena
()
(16)
()
(16)
Admissions
Oxford students are eligible to apply for transfer to the MMathPhys in their fourth year, if they are enrolled
in the third year of either the MPhys, MMath or MPhysPhil courses. Students from outside the University of
Oxford wishing to enter the MSc mode can apply if they either hold a BA or a masters degree (or equivalent)
in mathematics, physics or a related subject, or are enrolled in such a degree programme and are set to
complete it by the time they intend to start the MSc.
3.1
Admission criteria
The aim of the admission procedure is to select applicants with the potential and preparedness to successfully
complete the programme. Subject to equal opportunities principles and legislation, applications will be
considered in light of a candidates ability to meet the following criteria:
proven and potential academic excellence in mathematical and theoretical physics;
motivation for studying mathematical and theoretical physics.
These will be assessed using indicators including
the compatibility of the candidates previous programme of study with the prerequisites of the MMathPhys course;
the candidates performance in her/his previous programme of study and in particular in courses related
to theoretical and mathematical physics. Candidates will normally be required to have completed at
least a 2.i-class honours degree (or an equivalent qualification) in mathematics, physics, or a related
discipline at the time their MMathPhys course starts;
two reference letters;
a short personal statement detailing the candidates motivation.
No interviews will be conducted.
3.2
Application procedure
At the time of application you may not yet have completed your first undergraduate degree. In this case
your application will be assessed on the basis of your performance in your course thus far (for MMathPhys
applicants, this means performance in Part A). If admitted, you will be given a conditional offer. A standard
condition is completion of your BA degree at 2.i level or better (or equivalent).
Applying to enter the MMathPhys course does not entail a risk for Oxford students: should you miss
your offer conditions, you can continue with your original programme (MMath, MPhys, or MPhysPhil) as
long as you satisfy the necessary requirements to proceed according to the regulations for those degrees.
If you are an Oxford student admitted to the MMathPhys part of the programme, you will be able to
return to your original degree programme (MMath, MPhys, or MPhysPhil) during the first four weeks of
the Michaelmas Term of your fourth year. This will allow you to continue with your original course if you
find that the MMathPhys course is not to your liking. A return later than four weeks into Michaelmas Term
is not possible, because catching up with the original course becomes too difficult. If you are an Oxford
student and are considering the MMathPhys option, you are encouraged to consult your tutors prior to
submitting an application.
For deadlines and practical details on how to apply, see Appendix C.
3.3
English language requirement: applicants whose first language is not English are usually required to provide evidence of proficiency in English at the higher level required by the University.
See http://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate/applying-to-oxford/application-guide.
Whether or not an applicant has secured funding is not taken into consideration in the decision
to make an initial offer of a place, but this offer will not be confirmed until the College to which you
applied or are assigned is satisfied that you have sufficient funding to cover the fees and living costs
for the standard period of fee liability for your course.
3.4
Students are selected for admission without regard to gender, marital or civil partnership status, disability,
race, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or belief, sexual orientation, age, or social background. Decisions
on admissions are based solely on the individual academic merits of each candidate and the application of
the selection criteria appropriate to the programme of study. Further information on how these matters are
handled during the admissions process is available at the following websites:
http://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate/applying-to-oxford/applicants-with-disabilities,
While there are no formal pre-requisites beyond the admissions criteria listed above, those applicants whose
undergraduate degree programmes have optional components may wish to receive some guidance as to how
best to prepare themselves for the MMathPhys/MSc programme. Below we give some suggestions for the
Oxford students intending to apply to the MMathPhys. These suggestions might inform your choice of
optional courses during the first three years of your undergraduate course. Equivalents might be available
to MSc applicants at their own universities.
Note that in some cases, it might be useful to take a course early instead of waiting for the MMathPhys
year (for example, some Part B Mathematics courses that are relevant for certain paths or general interests).
If an overlap occurs between courses you have taken previously and some of the courses in this programme,
you will have the flexibility and opportunity to explore another area, which you otherwise might not have
had time for.
4.1
Parts A and B of the MPhys only have a small optional component consisting of Short Options. We consider
the first three years of the MPhys to be adequate preparation for the MMathPhys. This said, if you are
thinking of taking up the MMathPhys option in your 4th year, you may wish to consider the following Short
Options:
All students: S01 Functions of Complex Variables, S07 Classical Mechanics
Students interested in specialisations involving Quantum Field Theory and related topics (e.g., Teorica
Universalis, Geometra, Particulata, Supercordula, Condensata, and Duracella example pathways in
Appendix B): S18 Advanced Quantum Mechanics
It is possible within the MPhys to take Mathematics courses en lieu of Short Options. If you decide
to do this, some of the suggestions for the Mathematics students in Section 4.3 may prove useful to
you (we particularly recommend Part B Numerical Solutions to Differential Equations I, II).
4.2
Part B of the MPhysPhil has an optional physics component. We recommend that you consider the following
Part B papers:
All students: B7 Classical Mechanics
Students interested in specialisations involving relativistic Quantum Field Theory, General Relativity,
Cosmology, etc. (e.g., Teorica Universalis, Geometra, Particulata, Supercordula, Condensata, Duracella, Astra-Stella, and Cosmicosmica example pathways in Appendix B): B2 Symmetry and Relativity,
B3 General Relativity and Cosmology
Students interested in specialisations involving physics of continuous media of various kinds (e.g.,
Applicata, Continua, Condensata, Mollis, Complicata, Astra-Stella, Cosmicosmica, Gaia, and Plasma
example pathways in Appendix B): B1 Fluctuations, Flows and Complexity
4.3
Both Parts A and B of the MMath have a large number of options. Here are some general recommendations
to help the students interested in the MMathPhys make an informed choice.
All students: We recommend the following courses that will teach you the basic mathematical and
numerical techniques common to most areas of Theoretical/Mathematical Physics and Applied Mathematics: Part A: Numerical Analysis; Part B: Techniques of Applied Mathematics, Applied Partial
Differential Equations, Numerical Solutions to Differential Equations I, II.
We also recommend recommend that you consider some of the suite of courses that cover the foundations of modern physics: Part A: Quantum Theory, Special Relativity, Fluids and Waves; Part B:
Classical Mechanics, Quantum Mechanics, Electromagnetism (note: these three courses are in the
process of being approved).
Some of these will be more important than others depending on the specialisation that you might
choose in the MMathPhys (see example pathways in Appendix B and consult your tutor in the first
instance if in doubt as to what courses might be relevant).
Students interested in specialisations involving physics of continuous media of various kinds (e.g.,
Applicata, Continua, Condensata, Mollis, Complicata, Astra-Stella, Cosmicosmica, Gaia, and Plasma
example pathways in Appendix B): Part B Viscous Flow, Waves and Compressible Flow, Nonlinear
Systems are cross-listed as part of the MMathPhys programme, but if you take them early, this will
allow you the time to explore more advanced topics. The same consideration applies to Numerical
Solutions to Differential Equations I, II, which are especially important for these specialisations.
Students interested in mathematical physics specialisations that involve a substantial amount of modern
geometry and algebra (e.g., Geometra, Particulata and Supercordula example pathways in Appendix B):
There are a number of pure mathematics options that may prove useful, e.g., Part A Group Theory,
Projective Geometry, Topology; Part B Geometry of Surfaces, Algebraic Curves, Introduction to Representation Theory, Group Theory and an Introduction to Character Theory, Topology and Groups.
Consult your tutor for further advice.
5
5.1
You will be required to attend at least 10 units (with one unit defined as a 16 hour lecture course or a
dissertation) from the programme of lectures courses described in Section 2. You can opt to replace one
16-hour lecture course by a dissertation. Your performance will be assessed by one or several of the following
means: (i) Invigilated written exams. (ii) Course work marked on a pass/fail basis. (iii) Take-home papers.
(iv) Mini-projects due shortly after the end of the lecture course. The modes of assessment for a given
course are decided by the course lecturer and will be published at the beginning of each academic year.
As a general rule, foundational courses will be offered with an invigilated exam while some of the more
advanced courses will typically be relying on the other assessment methods mentioned above. In addition,
you will be required to give an oral presentation towards the end of the academic year which will cover a
more specialized and advanced topic related to one of the subject areas of the course.
At least four of the 10 units must be assessed by an invigilated exam and, therefore, have to be taken
from lecture courses which provide this type of assessment. Apart from this restriction, you are free to
choose from the available programme of lecture courses. However, it is strongly recommended that you
consider the discussion on sensible pathways through the course given in Section 2 and Appendix B and, in
case of doubt, seek advice from the Director of Studies or other designated academic advisors for the course.
5.2
Arrangements
Each setter, normally the course lecturer, will assess your exam papers, mini-projects and course work as
appropriate, and produce a raw mark for the course. Assessment and scaling of mini-projects and take
home exams will follow the conventions established in Mathematics and laid out in the MMath handbook.
Invigilated written exams will be conducted according to the existing guidelines for mathematics and physics
fourth year students. Lecture courses assessed with a take-home paper or by a mini-project will be marked
by the course lecturer, and the final USMs will be awarded by the Examiners Panel based on the recommendation of the course lecturers. Dissertations will be assessed following the guidelines and procedures of
part C of the mathematics course (see the guidelines at
http://www.maths.ox.ac.uk/current-students/undergraduates/projects/).
We emphasize that there is no expectation that a dissertation includes original research.
Some courses in the MMathPhys programme are managed by one of the departments and are part
of the MMath or MPhys courses. In all these cases you will be examined following the instructions of the
corresponding department. Typically these courses are assessed by an invigilated exam at the end of TT.
For other lecture courses taught in Michaelmas Term, exams are timetabled in week 0 of Hilary Term, for
other courses taught in Hilary Term exams take place in week 1 of Trinity Term.
All students, both on the MMathPhys and MSc course, will attend a compulsory oral presentation
(typically in TT), based on a somewhat more specialized and advanced topic which relates to a subject area
in the course. A list of such topics will be published in this handbook. The oral presentation will be marked
on a pass/fail basis and has to be passed. One re-take (in the same academic year) in case of a fail will be
allowed.
A panel of examiners will be moderating the raw marks and produce a class list at the end of the
academic year. Moderation of the marks by examiners will involve a suitable re-scaling algorithm. As a
general principle, this algorithm will be the same for MSc and MMathPhys students and will, in particular,
not be based on prior performance in the first three years of students degrees.
The Mathematical Institute and Physics Department have guidance on plagiarism and cheating in exams and these guidelines will be followed in the assessment procedures. Reasonable adjustments for disabled
students will be made following the current practices in physics and mathematics, including, whenever it is
necessary, the provision of alternative methods of assessment.
5.3
Classification
Degrees for both the MMathPhys and the MSc mode will have a distinction/pass/fail classification but with
detailed transcripts provided. Note that this is different from the current MPhys and MMath classifications
which follow the 1/2.1/2.2/3 scheme. As an MMathPhys student you will, therefore, be classified differently
from your peers who have stayed on the MPhys or MMath programmes.
More precisely, as an MMathPhys student you will receive a double-classification, with the first part
given by your BA degree class and the second part by your MMathPhys degree class as above. This means
that as an MMathPhys student coming, for example, through Physics you would receive a classification as
follows:
Parts A and B: first class honours in Physics
Part C: distinction in Mathematical and Theoretical Physics
Syllabi
Below you will find syllabi for all courses in the programme, as listed in the table in Section 2. Note that the
designated pre-requisites are only recommendations they are not required as a conditions of enrolment
in each course as some students may have already had adequate equivalent training during their Bachelors
degree or may choose to catch up via an independent autodidactic effort.
A.1
Michaelmas Term
12
A.2
Hilary Term
13
14
15
16
A.3
Trinity term
17
18
Syllabus (written by J. Cardy). Phase transitions in simple systems. Mean field theory and its
limitations (Landau theory). Basic theory of the RG. Scaling and crossover behaviour. Perturbative RG
and the epsilon-expansion. Relation to the field-theoretic RG. Some applications: low-dimensional systems,
random magnets, polymer statistics, critical dynamics.
Topics in Soft and Active Matter Physics [8 hours]
Prequels: Soft Matter Physics (HT), Advanced Fluid Dynamics (HT)
Pre-requisites: Soft Matter Physics (HT)
Syllabus (written by R. Golestanian, A. Louis, J. Yeomans). This is a reading course. Under the
guidance of the course organiser, students will give presentations based on key papers in soft condensed
matter theory. Some examples of the topics for these presentations are: Active nematics and active gels.
Wetting, spreading and contact line dynamics. Hydrodynamics of microswimmers: Stokes equation, scallop
theorem, multipole expansion, active suspensions. Fluctuations and response.
Turbulence [16 hours]
Prequels: Kinetic Theory (MT), Viscous Flow (MT), Advanced Fluiod Dynamics (HT), Waves and
Compressible Flow (HT)
Pre-requisite: basic familiarity with fluid equations as provided, e.g., by Kinetic Theory (MT), Maths
B6a or an equivalent undergraduate course (e.g., Physics B1).
Syllabus (written by A. Schekochihin). Kolmgorov 1941 theory and general philosophy of turbulent
cascades (Obukhov). Turbulent diffusion, mixing of a scalar. General framework of mean-field theory,
closures (basic idea, not detailed exposition). Kinematics of turbulence: correlation functions. Exact laws
(Kolmogorovs 4/5 and Yagloms 4/3). Intermittency: basic ideas; refined similarity (Kolmogorov 1962);
She-Leveque theory. Turbulence in systems with waves: introduction to weak turbulence theory. Critically
balanced turbulence in wave-supporting systems: general idea and the example of rotating turbulence.
Restoration of Kolmogorov symmetries. Time-permitting: MHD turbulence, turbulent dynamo.
Geophysical Fluid Dynamics [16 hours]
Prequel: Waves and Compressible Flow (HT)
Pre-requisite: basic familiarity with fluid equations as provided, e.g., by Kinetic Theory (MT), Maths
B6a or an equivalent undergraduate course (e.g., Physics B1).
Syllabus (written by D. Marshall). Rotating frames of reference, Rossby number, geostrophic and hydrostatic balance, thermal wind relation, pressure coordinates. Shallow water and reduced gravity models, f
and beta-planes, conservation laws for energy and potential vorticity (relation to particle relabelling symmetry?), inertia-gravity waves, equations for nearly geostrophic motion, Rossby waves, Kelvin waves. Linearised
equations for a stratified, incompressible fluid, internal gravity waves, vertical modes. Quasigeostrophic approximation: quasigeostrophic potential vorticity equation and Rossby waves solutions, vertical propagation
and trapping. Barotropic and baroclinic instability, necessary conditions for instability of zonal flow, Eady
model of baroclinic instability, qualitative discussion of frontogenesis. Wave-mean flow interaction, transformed Eulerian mean, Eliassen-Palm flux, non-acceleration theorem. Angular momentum and Held-Hou
model of Hadley circulations. Applications to Mars and slowly-rotating planets. Giant planets: Multiple
jets, stable eddies and free modes. Ekman layers, spin-down and upwelling. Sverdrup balance and ocean
gyres, western intensification, simple models for the vertical structure of ocean circulation. Energetics and
simples models of the meridional overturning circulation.
Advanced Plasma Physics [16 hours]
Prequel: Plasma Physics (HT)
Pre-requisites: Plasma Physics (HT), Advanced Fluid Dynamics (HT)
19
Syllabus (written by F. Parra). Part I: Resistive MHD. Tearing modes. Magnetic Reconnection. Part
II: Drift kinetics in curved magnetic fields: neoclassical transport. Part III: Drift-wave modes in curved
magnetic fields: ion-temperature-gradient (ITG) instabilities, trapped electron modes (TEM), etc.
Astrophysical Fluid Dynamics [16 hours]
Prequels: Advanced Fluid Dynamics (HT), Waves and Compressible Flow (HT)
Pre-requisite: Advanced Fluid Dynamics (HT) and/or a standard course in Fluid Dynamics.
Syllabus (written by S. Balbus). Part I: Basic Equations. Review of Euler and Navier-Stokes equations.
Effects of radiation. Heating and cooling processes. MHD. Ion-electron fluid equations. Part II: Basic
Dynamics. Rotating Frames Gravitational tides and indirect potentials. Vorticity and field freezing. TaylorProudman theorem. Local Equations for discs and spheres. Part III: Waves and Instabilities. Eulerian
and Langrangian perturbations. Classic waves: sound, density (in discs), gravity/inertial, MHD (slow,
Alfvn, fast). Classic instabilities: gravitational, Rayleigh-Taylor, Schwarzschild-Parker, Kelvin-Helmholtz,
Rayleigh and magnetorotational, thermal. Transport by correlated fluctuations. Part IV: Astrophysical
Flows. Shock Waves, Taylor-Sedov blast-wave solution. Bondi accretion, Parker winds. Classical accretion
disc theory. Solar rotation. Growth of cosmological perturbations. Part V: Elementary Turbulence Theory.
Scaling and Kolmogorov arguments. Kinematic and MHD Dynamos.
High-Energy Astrophysics [16 hours]
Prequel: Stellar and Atomic Astrophysics (HT)
Syllabus (written by G. Cotter). Physics of interactions between high-energy particles and radiation
(synchrotron, inverse-Compton, thermal Bremsstrahlung). Relativistic jets.
Astroparticle Physics [16 hours]
Pre-requisites: Quantum Field Theory (MT), General Relativity I (MT)
Syllabus (written by S. Sarkar). The Universe observed, constructing world models, reconstructing our
thermal history, decoupling of the cosmic microwave background, primordial nucleosynthesis. Dark matter:
astrophysical phenomenology, relic particles, direct and indirect detection. Cosmic particle accelerators,
cosmic ray propagation in the Galaxy. The energy frontier: ultrahigh energy cosmic rays and neutrinos.
The early Universe: constraints on new physics, baryo/leptogenesis, inflation, the formation of large-scale
structure, dark energy.
Quantum Field Theory in Curved Space-Time [16 hours]
Prequels/pre-requisites: Quantum Field Theory (MT), General Relativity I (MT)
Syllabus (written by A. Starinets). Non-interacting quantum fields in curved space-time (Lagrangians,
coupling to gravity, spinors in curved space-time, global hyperbolicity, Greens functions, canonical quantization, choice of vacuum) Quantum fields in Anti de Sitter space. Quantum fields in an expanding universe.
Unruh effect. Casimir effect. Black hole thermodynamics. Hawking radiation. Interacting quantum fields
in curved space-time. Effective action, heat kernel and renormalization. Holographic principle.
20
Case Studies
The following table details some examples of possible pathways through the Programme. These case studies
are for illustrative purposes only and show the breadth and diversity of the programme. Many other paths
through the course are possible and in fact much more eclectic or more generalist selections of courses
may be appropriate for students who have not settled on a specialisation they intend to pursue eventually.
Indispensable courses (core) for each given case study are indicated in bold. 1 unit=16 lectures; at
least 10 units have to be taken over three terms. Note that some of the Case Studies below are sufficiently
broad to allow multiple pathways within them.
Pathway
MT
HT
TT
TEORICA
1. QFT 24
1-3. Three of
1-3. Three of
UNIVERSALIS
2-4. Three of
Advanced QFT 24
Gauge-String Duality 16
(Generalist Theoretical
Quantum CMP II 24
Standard Model 16
Physicist)
Critical Phenomena 16
Core 45 units
Kinetic Theory 24
Soft Matter 16
Turbulence 16
GR I 16
Nonlinear Systems 16
AFD 16
Pert. Methods 16
Plasma Physics 16
Cosmology 16
APPLICATA
1-2. Two of
(Applied Mathematician)
Kinetic Theory 24
Visc. Flow 16
GR I 16
Waves/Comp. Flow 16
3. Pert. Methods 16
Plasma Physics 16
4. One of
1-2. Two of
Complex Systems 16
Turbulence 16
GFD 16
AFD 16
Dissertation
Galactic Dyn. 16
Sci. Comp. I 12
GR II 16
3. One of
Complex Variables 16
Diff. Geometry 16
4. One of
Sci. Comp. II 12
Num. Slns Diff. Eqs II 16
CONTINUA
1. Kinetic Theory 24
1. Turbulence 16
(Fluid Dynamicist)
2. Visc. Flow 16
2. Waves/Comp. Flow 16
2. One of
3. Pert. Methods 16
3. One of
4. One of
Nonlinear Systems 16
GFD 16
Sci. Comp. I 12
AFD 16
Plasma Physics 16
Dissertation
Complex Variables 16
4. One of
Sci. Comp. II 12
Num. Slns Diff. Eqs II 16
21
GEOMETRA
1. QFT 24
1. String Theory I 16
1. String Theory II 16
(Mathematician
2. GR I 16
2. Diff. Geometry 16
2. Two of
3. One of
3. One of
CFT 16
Advanced QFT 24
Standard Model 16
Total 10 units
Algebraic Topology 16
Beyond the SM 16
Algebraic Geometry 16
GR II 16
1. QFT 24
1. Advanced QFT 24
1. Standard Model 16
(Particle Phenomenologist)
2. Nonpert. QFT 16
Core 8 units
3. One of
3. One of
2. One of
Stat. Mech. 16
String Theory I 16
String Theory II 16
GR I 16
GR II 16
Beyond the SM 16
Pert. Methods 16
Cosmology 16
Sci. Comp. I 12
Sci. Comp. II 12
Astroparticle Phys. 16
SUPERCORDULA
1. QFT 24
1. Advanced QFT 24
1. String Theory II 16
(Hard-core
2. String Theory I 16
2. CFT 16
String Theorist)
3. One of
3. One of
3. One of
Stat. Mech. 16
Gauge-String Duality 16
GR I 16
GR II 16
Standard Model 16
Pert. Methods 16
Cosmology 16
Beyond the SM 16
Sci. Comp. I 12
Sci. Comp. II 12
Nonpert. QFT 16
Algebraic Geometry 16
Diff. Geometry 16
CONDENSATA
1. QFT 24
1. Quant. CMP II 24
(Condensed Matter
2. Soft Matter 16
Theorist)
3. One of
3. Two of
Core 7 units
4. Sci. Comp. I 12
Advanced QFT 24
Critical Phenomena 16
Nonlinear Systems 16
CFT 16
4. Sci. Comp. II 12
DURACELLA
1. QFT 24
1. Quant. CMP II 24
(Hard-core
2. One of
3. One of
Advanced QFT 24
3-4. Two of
Theorist)
String Theory I 16
Critical Phenomena 16
Kinetic Theory 24
CFT 16
Pert. Methods 16
3. Sci. Comp. II 12
Gauge-String Duality 16
4. Sci. Comp. I 12
Nonpert. QFT 16
MOLLIS
1. QFT 24
2. Soft Matter 16
2. Critical Phenomena 16
Physicist/Biophysicist)
3. Kinetic Theory 24
3. One of
3. Complex Systems 16
Core 7 units
4. Pert. Methods 16
Nonlinear Systems 16
5. Sci. Comp. I 12
Networks 16
4. Sci. Comp. II 12
22
COMPLICATA
1. Soft Matter 16
1. Complex Systems 16
(Complexity Scientist)
2. Kinetic Theory 24
2. Nonlinear Systems 16
2-3. Two of
3. Pert. Methods 16
3. Networks 16
4. One of
4. One of
Critical Phenomena 16
Sci. Comp. I 12
Sci. Comp. II 12
Turbulence 16
ASTRA-STELLA
1. Kinetic Theory 24
1-2. Two of
1. AFD 16
(All-round
2. GR I 16
Galactic Dyn. 16
2. High-Energy Astro 16
Astrophysicist)
3. One of
Stellar Astrophys. 16
3. One of
QFT 24
Cosmology 16
Turbulence 16
Pert. Methods 16
3. One of
GFD 16
4. One of
Waves/Comp. Flow 16
Astroparticle Phys. 16
Sci. Comp. I 12
Plasma Physics 16
4. One of
Sci. Comp. II 12
Num. Slns Diff. Eqs II 16
COSMICOSMICA
1. GR I 16
1. Cosmology 16
1. One of
(Dedicated Cosmologist)
2-3. Two of
2. GR II 16
AFD 16
Core 4 units
QFT 24
3. One of
High-Energy Astro 16
Kinetic Theory 24
Waves/Comp. Flow 16
Pert. Methods 16
Galactic Dyn. 16
2. Astroparticle Phys. 16
4. One of
Stellar Astrophys. 16
Sci. Comp. I 12
4. One of
Sci. Comp. II 12
Num. Slns Diff. Eqs II 16
GAIA
1-2. Two of
1. Nonlinear Systems 16
1. GFD 16
(Geophysicist/
Kinetic Theory 24
2. One of
2. Turbulence 16
Climate Physicist)
Viscous Flow 16
Networks 16
3. Complex Systems 16
Waves/Comp. Flow 16
3. Pert. Methods 16
3. One of
4. One of
Sci. Comp. II 12
Sci. Comp. I 12
1. Kinetic Theory 24
(Plasma Theorist)
2. Plasma Physics 16
2. AFD 16
3. Pert. Methods 16
3. One of
3. Turbulence 16
4. One of
Nonlinear Systems 16
Sci. Comp. I 12
Stellar Astrophys. 16
Complex Variables 16
4. One of
Sci. Comp. II 12
Num. Slns D. Eqs II 16
23
Application procedure
MSc applicants should follow the usual Oxford University postgraduate admission procedure explained at
http://www.ox.ac.uk/admissions/graduate.
Applications should be submitted for the second gathered field deadline (January 23, 2015 for entry in
October 2015). Oxford students applying for the MMathPhys should submit their applications by the same
deadline (January 23, 2015 for entry in October 2015). Details of the submission process for Oxford students
will be provided on the course website at
http://mmathphys.physics.ox.ac.uk.
The following documents are required.
A transcript for your university courses so far, including degree classification (or equivalent) where
studies have already been completed.
A concise personal statement (maximal one page) in English, providing the reasons for applying,
evidence of motivation for and understanding of the proposed area of study, commitment to the subject
beyond the requirements of the degree course, capacity for sustained and intense work, reasoning
ability, the ability to absorb abstract ideas and at a rapid pace and an indication of your intended
pathway through the MMathPhys programme.
Two academic references which include information about your intellectual ability, academic achievement, academic potential, and motivation, particularly with regard to mathematical and theoretical
physics and, if you have not yet completed your current degree, your likely performance (degree class
or equivalent).
24