PhD - Doctor of Philosophy in Physics and Astronomy

The University of Kentucky (UK), founded in 1865, is a public land grant university dedicated to improving people’s lives through excellence in education, research and creative work, service and healthcare. As Kentucky’s flagship institution, UK plays a critical leadership role by promoting diversity, inclusion, economic development and human well-being.A diverse student body of 28,000, representing 117 countries, are studying in more than 100 undergraduate degree programs, more than 90 master’s programs and more than 90 doctoral programs in 16 academic and professional colleges – all on one centrally located campus. UK is pound to be one of the top 300 academic institutions in the world, and to offer its students more than 25 nationally ranked programs in the Top 20.Campus life at UK is never dull and provides countless ways to get involved and make new friends. With over 400 student organizations you’ll be sure to find a club, organization or volunteer opportunity that will enable you to explore your interests, while having fun. There are also frequent on-campus events such as live performances and sporting events.As a leading research university, there are over 70 centers for research, providing ample opportuntity to aid or participate in one of the many research projects being conducted at UK. In 2011, UK faculty received a record-breaking total of $229 million in grants and contracts. Groundbreaking developments made in all areas of study, not only benefit the local community but people around the world.UK is located in Lexington, Kentucky – a city of 295,000 known for its natural beauty and friendly residents. Lexington is proud to offer many unique attractions, cultural events and an energetic nightlife. It has been ranked in the top 10 nationally for safest, most educated, best value, best for business and best for employment opportunities. In addition, it made the list of Top 10 Cities of the Future.The University of Kentucky is well on its way to becoming a Top 20 institution, and is a place to dream and succeed. Expect the best in resources, teaching, research opportunities and your overall experience, as UK is leading through innovation!

UK grew from the vision of one man, John Bowman. In 1865, after winning financial support through the federal Morrill Land-Grant College Act and private donations, Bowman saw the realization of his dream with the opening of the state's new Agricultural and Mechanical College. The college was renamed the University of Kentucky in 1916.The University of Kentucky will be one of the nation's 20 best public research universities, an institution recognized world-wide for excellence in teaching, research, and service and a catalyst for intellectual, social, cultural, and economic development.The University of Kentucky is a public, research-extensive, land grant university dedicated to enriching people's lives through excellence in teaching, research, and service.The University of Kentucky: Facilitates learning, informed by scholarship and research. Expands knowledge through research, scholarship and creative activity. Serves a global community by disseminating, sharing and applying knowledge. The University, as the flagship institution, plays a critical leadership role for the Commonwealth by promoting human and economic development that improves lives within Kentucky's borders and beyond. The University models a diverse community characterized by fairness and social justice.