Physics and Astrophysics

We have been teaching physics and astrophysics in Preston for over 190 years and continue to produce graduates ready to make their mark in the world. Discover our Institute of Physics accredited courses in Physics and Astrophysics.

Our history

We trace our physics and astronomy heritage back to Jeremiah Horrocks in 1639. He made the first successful prediction and observation of a Transit of Venus from central Lancashire.

In 1993 we established The Jeremiah Horrocks Institute. Through this we bring together over 50 academic staff, research fellows and students from across the world in an intellectually vibrant atmosphere.

What we do today

Being a physics student at UCLan comes with a range of exciting opportunities. You can get involved in active research, industry placements and interesting projects.

The sky was no limit for our final year students as they sent a high altitude balloon 100,000 ft above the surface of the Earth. This project tested instruments and materials intended for use in space travel.

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Who we are

Throughout your studies, you're taught by our passionate team of experienced, research-active lecturers. With their strong history of developing students on an individual level, you are in the best place to achieve your potential.

Professor Derek Ward-Thompson
Director of the Jeremiah Horrocks Institute
Dr Paul Freeman
Senior Lecturer
Dr Serban Lepadatu
Lecturer in Physics
Dr Karen Syres
Senior Lecturer in Physics
Dr Anne Sansom
Reader in Astrophysics
Professor Victor Debattista
Professor of Astrophysics
Dr Dimitris Stamatellos
Reader in Astrophysics
Dr Mark Norris
Senior Lecturer
Dr Joanne Pledger
Reader in Astrophysics
Dr Joe Smerdon
Senior Lecturer
Dr Danielle Bewsher
Principal Lecturer
Professor Cristina C. Popescu
Professor of Astrophysics
Dr Monika Barbara Gamża
Senior Lecturer in Physics
BP
Dr Brett Patterson
Senior Lecturer in Physics
Professor Silvia Dalla
Professor of Solar Physics
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What our students say

The Moses Holden Telescope (MHT) at the university’s observatory has definitely been a highlight to use throughout undergrad as well as for my masters research. I'm proud to say that not only did I study at the University of Lancashire, but proud to have represented the University through the years.
Alston Observatory, students looking at the sky
Amar Rambukwella-Gill
BSc (Hons) Astrophysics & MRes Astrophysics

Careers in Physics and Astrophysics

Graduates of physics and astrophysics are amongst the most employable in the world and are in particularly high demand for technical and business sectors, where analytical and mathematical skills are at a premium.

We're proud to have a broad range of successful alumni with UCLan physics graduates working at high profile businesses such as BAE and NASA.

Physics degree jobs 

Studying physics could lead to a future career in:

  • Industry
  • Government research institutes
  • Overseas laboratories and observatories
  • Financial institutions
  • Scientific journalism

Why study with us

  • Our courses are delivered through engaging lectures, problem-solving tutorials and hands-on laboratory sessions. And our small class sizes means you'll receive lots of support right from the start.
  • Our Alston Observatory is one of the largest, best-equipped teaching observatories with £200,000 recent investment in the most powerful modern telescope available in the UK. The observatory’s 20+ telescopes are used weekly by Year 1 students on all degrees.
  • You’ll develop your mathematical skills, and benefit from a state-of-the art learning environment for practical analysis, interpretation and modelling of astronomical data.
Sound interesting?

Visit us on campus

Thinking about university? Come and see us at an Open Day or book a campus tour to explore our facilities. Discover what uni life is really like.

Book an Open Day or campus tour

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group of students walking outside once was lost in preston

Study a degree at UCLan

Interested in studying a degree with us? From exploring accommodation to visiting us at an Open Day, find out everything you need to know about life at UCLan.