M.Sc. in Quantum Fields, Strings and Gravity (Theoretical Physics)

Where are you from and why did you decide to apply for a MSc in QFSG at TCD?

I'm from Dublin, Ireland. Throughout my undergraduate degree in Theoretical Physics at University College Dublin I wanted more access to modern topics in a rigorous setting and to get experience in academic research, the former due to personal interest and the latter to see if a PhD would be for me. I found from several experiences that my interests in Quantum Information and Quantum Gravity, separately, had intersected in a fascinating way in the AdS/CFT Correspondence (Holography). In researching this program and the faculty involved, I found it provided both the classes and the opportunities to research these directions.

What is your experience with studying and doing research in the program?

The courses provided excellent pedagogical material for the advanced topics but more importantly provided practical support. Lectures could be very interactive if needed and tutorial problems were relevant to research computations and conceptual understanding. The research projects were very well supervised, topics are flexible and the supervisors were generous with their limited time to guide us through the topics and how to research more effectively. There were a lot of chances to interact with prominent researchers that are invited to Trinity in weekly talks, both specifically to the MScs and for the department, this inclusive environment produced a lot of discussion and provided opportunity to find one's niche. Overall the program required and taught me an independence in study and research that is foundational to me as a PhD student.

What would be your advice for prospective students?

This program works best for those that have an idea of what they want beforehand and are willing to work hard. Learn about what researchers at Trinity are doing, especially their current papers, if there is something particular you're interested in then reach out to relevant faculty. I will give a warning about prerequisites; any research experience is good but can be learned throughout the program by a willing student, if classes were not available in your undergraduate then be prepared to either learn all relevant material before each class or at most one or two weeks into the classes especially for the Advanced Formal sequence.

Where are you from and why did you decide to apply for a MSc in QFSG at TCD?

Before attending Trinity, I completed all of my studies in Belgium. I decided to attend this program as I wanted to dive deeper into quantum gravity, while also moving closer to contemporary literature. The courses on string theory, holography, CFT and advanced QFT were particularly interesting to me as they offered a great anchor point for my developing research interests in high-energy theory and quantum gravity.

What is your experience with studying and doing research in the program?

The program is structured very differently from a usual BSc or MSc course. In my experience, the classes were more relaxed and focused more on introducing new ideas and concepts rather than giving you very detailed overviews. This allows you to have more free time to explore high-energy theory on your own, while building on top of a solid foundation of the topics introduced in class. This also translates into a considerably larger amount of time which you can dedicate to research compared to other MSc programs. To me, this was the most valuable and most enjoyable aspect of the program. Finally, I thoroughly enjoyed attending seminars and discussing with PhD students and faculty. Between the MSc students we also started a journal club to work through certain topics and areas which were of mutual interest.

What would be your advice for prospective students?

My first advice would be to make sure as soon as possible that you have the correct prerequisites for the strand you are interested in. This will determine whether you will be able to comfortably do research throughout the year. Additionally, I recommend generously taking the time to figure out your personal research interests by talking to PhD students and faculty, as well as going to seminars and browsing arXiv. Developing your research interests is a continuous exercise, so don't be afraid to try new things and dive into vastly different topics. Since this program gives you the opportunity to put your research first, explore far and wide, but most of all enjoy!