Swansea & Chinese Scholarship Council; CSC Studentships

The Research Group in Theoretical Cosmology and Gravity at Swansea University (UK) invites applications from highly motivated and talented candidates wishing to pursue doctoral studies in theoretical cosmology and gravitational-wave physics under the Swansea & Chinese Scholarship Council (CSC) PhD Scholarships.

Final date to receive applications: 02 February 2026

Our Research Group in Theoretical Cosmology and Gravity, led by faculty members Azadeh Maleknejad, Gianmassimo Tasinato, Ivonne Zavala, carries out cutting-edge research at the forefront of theoretical cosmology, gravitational-wave science, and quantum field theory in curved space times. We place particular emphasis on bridging fundamental theoretical ideas with phenomenological predictions and experimental efforts in observational cosmology and gravitational-wave physics. The group forms part of the Centre for Quantum Fields and Gravity at Swansea University—a leading hub for research in string theory, quantum chromodynamics, and the application of artificial intelligence to fundamental physics.

Our team includes postdoctoral researchers and several PhD students, and is international, diverse, and highly collaborative, fostering a vibrant and supportive environment within a dynamic research university that encourages interaction across disciplines and career stages.

• Early-Universe Cosmology and Quantum Fields in Curved Spacetimes: exploring the quantum origins of the Universe, the interplay between gravity and quantum field theory, and the imprints of fundamental physics on cosmological observables.
• Gravitational-Wave Backgrounds and Fundamental Physics: investigating gravitational-wave signals from cosmological and astrophysical sources, developing advanced data-analysis methods, and probing connections to physics beyond the Standard Model.
• Testing Gravity Across Cosmic Scales: using gravitational waves as a new window on the Universe—from pulsar‑timing arrays and NANOGrav to the Einstein Telescope, LISA, and Euclid—to test general relativity and explore the fundamental nature of spacetime.
• Machine Learning for the Dark Universe: applying modern AI and machine‑learning techniques to reconstruct the dynamical properties of the Dark Universe from current and forthcoming cosmological and gravitational‑wave data.

• Strong first degree in physics, mathematics, or a related field
• Ability to work independently and in teams
• Strong English communication skills

• Excellent supervision and research environment
• Access to international collaborations and HPC facilities
• Vibrant academic and coastal living environment

Prospective candidates are encouraged to follow the applications steps outlined in the webpage of the scholarship:

Candidates are expected to hold a strong first degree (or equivalent) in physics, mathematics, or a closely related discipline. Evidence of analytical ability and programming skills is highly desirable.

Prove ability to work both independently and as part of a team, with strong written and verbal communication skills in English.

Genuine motivation to develop and pursue independent research funding in parallel with this opportunity.

For any questions regarding the practical aspects of the scholarship, please e-mail pgr

Azadeh Maleknejad — aza

Gianmassimo Tasinato —

Ivonne Zavala — e.i.