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Department of Physics and Astronomy

We have been rated 1st in the UK in terms of the quality of our research. In the Research Excellence Framework 2021, 100 per cent of research and impact from our department has been classed as world-leading or internationally excellent.

Research Excellence Framework 2021

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Physics at Sheffield rated 1st in the UK

In the REF 2021, 100 per cent of research and impact from the Department of Physics and Astronomy has been classed as world-leading or internationally excellent.

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20 September 2023

Work with us

We're investing significantly in Science to support our world-leading research. We're recruiting Early Career Research Fellows through to Chairs.

An artists' impression of a quasar. Credit: ESO-M Kornmesser

26 April 2023

Astronomers solve the 60-year mystery of quasars – the most powerful objects in the Universe

Scientists have unlocked one of the biggest mysteries of quasars – the brightest, most powerful objects in the Universe – by discovering that they are ignited by galaxies colliding.

An artists' impression of the ring system around Quaoar — Credit: ESA, CC BY-SA 3.0 IGO

9 February 2023

A new ring system discovered in our Solar System

Scientists have discovered a new ring system around a dwarf planet on the edge of the Solar System. The ring system orbits much further out than is typical for other ring systems, calling into question current theories of how ring systems are formed.

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