About the Project
Particle physics aims to study the smallest constituents of matter and their interactions. The LHCb experiment at the Large Hadron Collider is at the forefront of this research, having recorded billions of collisions during its last data-taking period, allowing for precise investigations of fundamental effects in particle physics.
In this project the PhD student will reconstruct and analyse data from the LHCb experiment. This involves the study of vast data sets of so-called B mesons to understand and measure properties of the Standard Model of particle physics, and possibly probe its extensions. The project also involves the development of fast, heterogeneous computing algorithms to reconstruct collision events at the LHCb detector with microsecond timing, and the deployment of the algorithms in the production environment of the LHCb experiment.
The PhD student will join the LHCb group at the University of Manchester which combines a broad expertise in heavy-flavour physics, real-time computational methods and the construction of particle physics detectors. They will also be part of the international LHCb collaboration, responsible for the operation and exploitation of the LHCb experiment at CERN, and will have the opportunity to spend time at CERN.
This project will give the student a deep understanding of high-energy particle physics, computational approaches in real-time environments and will allow them to work in a diverse and international team of scientists.
This project is expected to start in September 2027.
Before you apply:
We strongly recommend that you contact the supervisors for this project before you apply.
How to apply:
To be considered for this project you must complete a formal application through our online application portal. If you already have an applicant account this link will directly open an application for PhD School of Natural Sciences Scholarships. If you don't already have an applicant account, please follow the instructions here.
When applying, please specify the full title and supervisor/s of the project, details of your previous study, and names and contact details of two referees. You must also upload a Supporting Statement describing your motivation to apply to the project, your CV and transcripts of awarded and in-progress university qualifications. Please note late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Equality, diversity and inclusion are fundamental to the success of The University of Manchester and central to all our activities. A diverse research community strengthens creativity, productivity and quality, while increasing the societal and economic impact of our work. We welcome applicants from all career paths, backgrounds and sections of the community, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation or transgender status.
We welcome applications from candidates returning to study after a career break or experience in other roles. Flexible study arrangements may be available, including part-time study at 50%, 60% or 80%, subject to the requirements of the project and funder.
Eligibility: The standard academic entry requirement for this PhD is an upper second-class (2:1) honours degree in Physics (or international equivalent) OR any upper-second class (2:1) honours degree and a Master's degree at merit in a Physics (or international equivalent).
This project will remain open until filled.
If your application is submitted by 1st November 2026, you can expect a decision by 18th December 2026.
If your application is submitted by 15th January 2027, you can expect a decision by 30th March 2027.
Self or externally funded students can also be considered for this project.
FSE_SoNS
Funding Notes
Funding covers tuition fees, an annual stipend at the UKRI minimum rate (currently £21,805 per year), and a research training support grant of up to £2,500 per year for the full 3.5-year programme.