PhD in Advanced Monte Carlo Methods for Glassy Dynamics and Complex Materials

Number of Opportunities Available

1 fully funded place

Department

Centre for Doctoral Training in the Modelling of Heterogeneous Materials (HetSys), Department of Physics 

About the project:

Advanced Monte Carlo methods for glassy dynamics and complex materials

Supervisor: Dr Michael Faulkner, University of Warwick

Glasses are materials that combine macroscopic solid behaviour with amorphous liquid-like structure. These mysterious signature properties are ubiquitous across science and engineering, with examples ranging from optical fibres to novel formulations of pharmaceutical drugs and beyond.

Understanding these materials experimentally is, however, a real challenge due to very long relaxation timescales that preclude many experimental measurements. Modelling is therefore paramount, but traditional simulations are plagued by the same slow relaxational dynamics.

Through collaboration across Engineering, Statistics and Chemistry, this project will develop state-of-the-art simulation algorithms to circumvent the slow dynamics leading to high-quality modelling of currently inaccessible experimental quantities.

About HetSys: Harnessing Data, Modelling and Simulation for Real‑World Impact

HetSys (Centre for Doctoral Training in Modelling of Heterogeneous Systems) at the University of Warwick is an innovative, interdisciplinary fully funded PhD programme that brings together science, engineering, and mathematics to tackle some of the most pressing challenges of our time.

• Big Questions, Real Impact – From climate modelling and sustainable energy to advanced materials and biomedical systems, HetSys projects apply cutting‑edge computational and mathematical techniques to problems with global significance.
• Interdisciplinary Training – Students gain expertise across physics, engineering, computer science, and applied mathematics, developing versatile skills that open doors to both academia and industry.
• Collaborative Environment – Work alongside leading researchers and industry partners in a supportive, vibrant community that values curiosity, creativity, and collaboration.
• Future‑Focused Careers – HetSys graduates are equipped with highly sought‑after skills in modelling, simulation, and data science, preparing them for impactful careers in research, technology, and beyond.

If you’re excited by the idea of using advanced modelling and simulation to solve complex, real‑world problems, HetSys offers the perfect environment to push boundaries and make a difference.

Additional Funding  

Awards for UK, EU, International applicants cover full University fees, give a research training budget and a tax-free stipend to cover living costs (standard UKRI rate £20780 in 25/26 - equivalent to national living wage)

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