PhD in Department of Physics

Physics is the study of matter, energy, and the fundamental forces that govern the natural world, spanning subfields such as condensed matter physics, particle and nuclear physics, optics, and astrophysics. Physicists build theoretical models and design experiments to test them, often relying on mathematics as the language for describing physical laws and using specialized instruments to probe phenomena at scales from subatomic particles to the cosmos. The Department of Physics at KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology), located in Yuseong-gu, South Korea, offers a doctoral program in the field with instruction delivered in English. Doctoral research typically involves specializing in an area such as quantum materials, high-energy physics, photonics, or theoretical physics, working closely with a faculty advisor on original experimental or theoretical work that forms the basis of a dissertation. Physics doctoral training builds strong quantitative and analytical skills, along with experience designing experiments or building computational models, which prepares graduates for careers in academic research, national laboratories, semiconductor and materials industries, and technology sectors that rely on advanced physical science. The program spans four years, with intakes beginning in September and March (February for MBA cohorts). As part of a national science and technology institute, the department has strong ties to engineering fields such as materials science and electrical engineering, supporting applied physics research alongside more fundamental work. Because instruction and thesis supervision are conducted in English, applicants are expected to meet the university's English proficiency requirements in addition to the mathematical and scientific preparation typical for doctoral admission in physics.