Is the Twistor World at Oxford a Viable Alternative to DAMTP for Physics PhDs?

  • Thread starter Thread starter h0dgey84bc
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Group
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the viability of the mathematical physics group at Oxford, particularly in relation to DAMTP, for pursuing PhD studies. Participants explore the group's focus on twistor theory, the backgrounds of potential applicants, and the perceived differences in research emphasis between the two institutions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants consider the mathematical physics group at Oxford as a potential alternative to DAMTP, noting overlaps in research areas such as strings and general relativity.
  • There is uncertainty about the leadership of the group, with one participant stating that Penrose is emeritus and not currently heading it.
  • Concerns are raised about the mathematical emphasis of the research at Oxford, with participants expressing doubts about their preparedness for such a focus.
  • One participant mentions that a professor at Oxford indicated that half of the students come from physics backgrounds, suggesting some openness to applicants from that field.
  • There is a discussion about the need for foundational knowledge in twistor theory and string theory before engaging in research, with participants expressing a desire for preparatory courses.
  • Participants reflect on the application process, with one expressing a light-hearted attitude towards potential embarrassment during interviews.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the Oxford group is a viable option but express differing views on preparedness and the nature of the research. There is no consensus on the suitability of applicants from physics backgrounds or the extent of mathematical training required.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note a lack of formal training in twistor theory and string theory, indicating a potential gap in knowledge that could affect their readiness for research. The discussion also highlights the ambiguity surrounding the requirements for admission, particularly regarding the interpretation of "mathematics or related degree."

Who May Find This Useful

Students considering PhD programs in mathematical physics, particularly those evaluating options between Oxford and DAMTP, may find this discussion relevant.

h0dgey84bc
Messages
159
Reaction score
0
Anyone ever consider the mathematical physics group at Oxford as alternative to DAMTP?
(i.e. the department headed by Penrose in the actual maths building at oxford http://www2.maths.ox.ac.uk/mpg/people.shtml ). There is no equivalent to part III to my knowledge and some of their research seems to overlap with DAMTP (indeed seems so members have later gone on to DAMTP from here); strings, Gen Rel etc with the added benefit of twistor stuff.

I've never seen this group mentioned on these boards. Do physics undergrads go onto PhD's here, or is mathematicians only? The requirements say mathematics or related degree but I take that with a big pinch of salt.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
There's definitely no equivalent to the CASM. I don't think Penrose heads it though as he's emeritus now? I've certainly had a look around the group pages... but then half my degree is in maths, which helps :biggrin:
 
yeah he is emeritus, still seems like a very good group. I've emailed a prof there and explained my background and modules (theoretical physics) and he seems happy for me to apply, and says half students there come from physics backgrounds...So I guess nothing to lose by applying (except £25, darn Oxford). Research does seem wayy more mathematical than a theory degree would prepare for though, so I still have my doubts, although it is ultimatley what I want to get into...wish I had done joint math phys
 
The emphasis seems to be on twistor theory, about which I haven't got the foggiest... maybe having a look at some introductory material on that would be the best way to find out if you're adequately prepared to do a PhD there?
 
Yeah, I mean I read some of Penrose's biggg thick book (Road to Reality) a while ago and got an overview on it, and I am pretty sure I couldn't just start research on it right now. That is the same with string theory though, I've had no formal training on string theory,just the prereqs like basic QFT/gen rel...so I'm going to need some lecture courses/tuition before trying to dive into research on these things either way. I think (I hope) that that is expected, and they will be willing to teach you such things before the research starts in full swing. If not I am screwed :smile:
I think I will just apply and hope for the best, nothing to lose except potential embaressment at interview, ha ha
 
Hodgey, you don't have nothing to lose, besides your sanity.
Good Luck!
 

Similar threads

Research group on Twistor in USA.
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
3K
Oxford PhD: Mathematical or Theoretical Physics?
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
11K
Job Skills [Career] - What kind of life does a career in physics entail?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
Programs Math minor, double major, and elective classes advice
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
Mathematica This Week's Finds in Mathematical Physics (Week 267)
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
4K
Mathematica This Week's Finds in Mathematical Physics (Week 247)
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
4K