Physics (Nanotechnology) - Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Science Buildings

Science Teaching Complex (STC) and Quantum-Nano Centre (QNC) Buildings Located on Waterloo's Campus.

Be at the leading edge of discovery in one of the largest physics and astronomy graduate programs in Canada while engaging with cutting-edge technological developments in the world of nanotechnology with PhD in Physics Collaborative Nanotechnology program.

Along with developing expertise in your area of research in physics, the program provides you with a strong foundation in the emerging areas of nanoscience.


You’ll work closely with a supervisor to produce original research in an area of nanotechnology, such as bio-nanotechnology, soft matter physics or quantum materials, culminating in a PhD thesis. Funding is provided to cover tuition and some living expenses.

Program overview

Department/School: Physics and Astronomy
Faculty: Faculty of Science
Admit term(s): Fall (September - December), Winter (January - April), Spring (May - August) 
Delivery mode: On-campus
Program type: Collaborative, Doctoral, Research
Length of program: 48 months (full-time)
Registration option(s): Full-time, Part-time
Study option(s): Thesis

Application deadlines

  • January 9 (for admission in September)
  • June 1 (for admission in January of the following year)
  • October 1 (for admission in May of the following year)

Key contacts

Sophie Gagnon at gwp@uwaterloo.ca

Supervisors

Admission requirements

  • Normally a Master's degree in Physics, with at least a 75% standing
  • Students with an undergraduate degree in Physics may apply for admission directly to the PhD program. Successful applicants will have an outstanding academic record, breadth of knowledge in physics, and strong letters of recommendation

Degree requirements

Application materials

  • Graduate Record Examination (GRE) Physics Subject test scores for all students who have completed their post-secondary education outside of Canada
    • Note: This application document is currently not required due to COVID-19
  • Supplementary information form (SIF)
    • The SIF contains questions specific to your program, typically about why you want to enrol and your experience in that field. Review the application documents web page for more information about this requirement
    • If a statement or letter is required by your program, review the writing your personal statement resources for helpful tips and tricks on completion
  • Transcript(s)
  • References
  • Proof of English language proficiency, if applicable
    • TOEFL 90 (writing 25, speaking 25), IELTS 7.0 (writing 6.5, speaking 6.5)

Tuition and fees