Program Description

We invite talented and motivated applicants for PhD positions in the Astro & Particle Physics group of Sam Wong and Yi-Ming Zhong at the Department of Physics, City University of Hong Kong, starting September 1, 2025. As a member of our team, you will have the opportunity to collaborate on cutting-edge projects that push the boundaries of our understanding of the universe and embark on an exciting journey through the depths of cosmology, the intricacies of black holes, the forefront of gravitational wave research, and dark matter physics. Located at the center of Hong Kong, the City University of Hong Kong is a top-tier university in Asia. It offers a vibrant scientific community and an excellent quality of life. 

About the Role

The successful candidate will be expected to:

• Carry out high-quality research under the supervision of our experienced faculty members.
• Participate in the development of theories, resolve theoretical puzzles, and perform numerical simulations.

Key Requirements:

• Hold a Bachelor's degree with outstanding performance in Physics or related fields from a recognised university. Applicants should expect to complete their Bachelor's degree by September 2025; or hold a Master's degree (or equivalent qualification) in Physics or related fields from a recognized university or hold a higher research degree (or equivalent qualification) in Physics or related fields from a recognized university.
• Strong interest/experience in theoretical physics, particularly in quantum mechanics, general relativity, and statistical mechanics.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Good written and oral communication skills in English.

Equivalent qualifications mentioned above include relevant professional qualifications and other scholarly achievements recognised by the University.

Desirable Skills:

• Prior experience in particle physics, cosmology, black holes, or gravitational waves, but not necessary.
• Proficiency in computer programming (python, C++, Fortran, Mathematica).

What We Offer:

• A vibrant, inclusive, and supportive research environment.
• Computing resources.
• Opportunities for career development and networking.
• Competitive stipend and benefits.
• The chance to live in Hong Kong renowned for its quality of life and cultural activities.
• Opportunities to compete in the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme.

About Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)

HKPFS was established by the Research Grants Council (RGC) of Hong Kong in 2009 and aims at attracting the best and brightest students in the world to pursue their PhD studies in Hong Kong's universities. It provides an annual stipend of HK$337,200 (approximately US$43,230) and a conference and research-related travel allowance of HK$14,000 (approximately US$1,790) per year for each awardee for a period up to three years. More details can be found at: https://cerg1.ugc.edu.hk/hkpfs

How to Apply and required documents: 

• Personal CV
• Transcripts in English
• Personal statement
• English proficiency test scores (applicable if the language of teaching at your institution is not English)
• Two or more confidential reference letters to be uploaded to AJO before the deadline.

Please also follow the instructions at: https://www.cityu.edu.hk/phy/research-degree/phd-physics

The departmental deadline for applications is December 1, 2024. Our group's deadline is November 10, 2024.

For further inquiries about the position, please contact:

Yi-Ming Zhong: [yiming.zhong@cityu.edu.hk] or

Sam Wong: [samwong@cityu.edu.hk]

The City University of Hong Kong is an equal-opportunity employer and values diversity. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.