About the project
You will use string theory and the anti-de Sitter/conformal field theory (AdS/CFT) correspondence to study the dynamics of quantum field theories using gravitational techniques. This has applications to exotic states of matter found in nuclear physics, condensed matter physics and cosmology. Calculations will focus on general relativity and the dynamics of black hole spacetimes.
The AdS/CFT correspondence, a realisation of the holographic principle, is one of the most profound and impactful advances in modern theoretical physics. It provides a mathematical relationship between quantum gravity and ordinary quantum field theories in the context of string theory. It also provides an exciting opportunity to understand some of the most challenging frontiers of physics.
In this project you will use the AdS/CFT correspondence to tackle a major open area: the dynamics of strongly-interacting quantum field theories. This is of relevance for states of matter that can be found across several disciplines: from the quark-gluon plasma produced at the LHC in nuclear physics, to high-temperature superconductors in condensed matter physics, to early universe cosmology.
Through the AdS/CFT correspondence, the dynamics of these states of matter are described by black holes in general relativity. This project will focus on calculations within general relativity, black hole spacetimes and their dynamical properties. You will also gain new insight into quantum field theories in curved spacetimes such as black hole or cosmological backgrounds.
This studentship will be based in Mathematical Sciences and the STAG Research Centre at the University of Southampton. Other members of the String Theory and Holography Group include Ines Aniceto, Oscar Dias, James Drummond, Nick Evans, Felix Haehl, Carlos Mafra, Tim Morris, Andy O'Bannon, Andreas Schmitt, Kostas Skenderis, Marika Taylor, David Turton and Itamar Yaakov. See the research group on string theory and holography for more information. The successful candidate will follow the University of Southampton’s well-established, comprehensive programme of training for PhD students.
