Biophysics & Systems Biology: The complexity of biology can benefit from the analytic tools developed in physics and mathematics. Biological systems operate in the physical world, and so physics is required to understand the cell’s view of the world.
Soft Matter & Interface Science: Soft matter refers to materials which are governed as much by entropy as by energy minimisation. Statistical physics explains the spontaneous formation or self-assembly of a plethora of complex nanostructures and interfaces in systems composed of simple molecules.
Biomimicry & Biomaterials: Billions of years of evolution have led to some amazing natural ‘inventions’ from which we can learn.
Nanotechnology: Our ability to manipulate the world at the nanoscale has advanced rapidly. Remarkable physical and chemical properties can be achieved and exploited with these tailored nanomaterials.
Photovoltaics & Photonics: The interaction of matter and light holds the key to two of society’s bigger challenges – sustainable energy and communication technology. Basic research into these phenomena provides the foundation for solving these important questions.
Functional & Energy Storage Materials: The functionality of manmade and natural materials covers a broad range of phenomena, from adsorption, thermal stability, mechanics, energy storage to acoustic properties. An understanding of the physical interactions and structural properties.
Physics Education: Physics can be a challenging subject, but we are very keen to open the door to physics knowledge. A primary mechanism to do this is by improving strategies for physics teaching through education research.
Physics & Nanotechnology 