Why Physics at Cambridge?

Physics gives you the opportunity to find solutions to some of the most pressing challenges of our times, like climate change and sustainability, or understanding the formation of the Universe and the life that exists within it. You get to ask the daring questions, to experiment and to redefine the future.

The Cavendish Laboratory is where world-leading discoveries continue to be made, and where innovative technologies are shaped. You’re surrounded by people who are excited by physics and relish the opportunity to create positive, real-world impact.

We’ve been at the forefront of physics since 1874 and home to visionary scientists including James Clerk Maxwell, JJ Thomson, Jocelyn Bell Burnell, and Ernest Rutherford. But we don’t sit still.

We have a vibrant community. Restless. Inclusive and supportive. Our approach is interdisciplinary, enabling a rich diversity of viewpoints – while always looking at the world through the lens of physics to develop research that opens up possibilities for all.

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Study and Research

Undergraduate

Our physics degrees are accredited by the IOP and offered through the Natural Sciences Tripos. Choose the three-year BA in Physics or the four-year Integrated Masters. Specialise in Physics, Physical Sciences, or transition into Astrophysics or other Triposes after second or third year.

Postgraduate

Join the Cavendish Laboratory for a PhD or MPhil in Physics, focusing on one research area or exploring broader topics through specialist programmes in Data Intensive Science, Scientific Computing, or Nanotechnology—supported by world-class researchers and state-of-the-art facilities.

Research Themes

Explore physics at Cambridge through ten core research themes, uniting diverse groups in a shared mission: to uncover the fundamental laws of the Universe and to develop innovative applications of nature’s principles.

Career options after studying physics at Cambridge

Graduates of physics are also extremely employable. You’ll develop strong technical, mathematical, and analytical skills which can lead you directly to a career in a fast-moving sector like robotics or renewable energy, AI or aerospace.

It can also open doors to rewarding roles in the civil service, software development, banking and finance, consultancy and analysis, and industrial research.

The University is top in the UK for graduate prospects (Complete University Guide 2025). Graduating with a physics research degree from the Cavendish Laboratory opens up a wide range of career opportunities, including:

  • research scientist
  • academic positions
  • consultancy
  • science education
  • industry

If you have an entrepreneurial spirit you can follow in the footsteps of the many fast-growing startups that have spun out of the Cavendish, including Nu Quantum, Cambridge Electromagnetic Technology and Cambridge Smart Plastics.

Cambridge Enterprise is on hand to support you in commercialising your research, and just being in Cambridge places you in the heart of the most intensive science and technological cluster in the world, ranked by the Global Innovation Index.

Beyond study: societies and other opportunities

During your time at the Cavendish Laboratory, you will find multiple opportunities to engage with fellow researchers and students. Cambridge offers a wide range of student societies, with two in particular that are closely linked to the Department: Cambridge University Women in Physics Society (CUWPS) and Cambridge University Physics Society. There are also other opportunities such as events, outreach activities where students play a vital role.

Cambridge University Women in Physics Society (CUWPS)

Cambridge University Women in Physics Society (CUWPS) is a student-led group working towards improving the visibility of leading female academics, entrepreneurs, and women in industry who come from physics background, with a goal of inspiring a new generation of women considering careers in physics.

They run speaker events, networking sessions, social events and mentoring schemes, and publish helpful outreach materials.

Visit the CUWPS website for more information.

Cambridge-University-Women-in-Physics-Society

Cambridge University Physics Society

Cambridge University Physics Society runs a series of social events for everyone with an interest in physics, including lecture series, cocktail evenings, the annual Omega Dinner, and a May Week Garden Party.You’ll get to enjoy talks by internationally renowned speakers – which have in the past featured Professor Stephen Hawking, Jim Al-Khalili, Roger Penrose and more – on subjects ranging from cutting-edge physics to historical, philosophical, astronomical, or biological topics, with a drinks reception and discussion to follow.Visit the CUPS website for more information.

Other Opportunities

Students play a vital role in shaping the Cavendish community, actively driving graduate events and outreach initiatives. Beyond their research and course work, many students share their research on social media, often co-creating content to engage a wider audience. Plus, for those with an eye for visual storytelling, the annual Cavendish Photography Competition offers a chance to showcase their perspective and capture science through a different lense.