The 12th EPSRC/IOP Physics by the Lake summer school took place at the University College of St Martin, Ambleside, from the 31st August to 12th September 2008.

The 2008 school has just ended - we hope to be back in 2009.

This school is free for EPSRC-funded postgraduate students. A limited number of partial IOP sponsorships are available for other UK-based students.

What is it?

Physics by the Lake is a national summer school on theoretical condensed matter physics organised by the Institute of Physics (IoP) and sponsored by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). It consists of two weeks of high-quality lecture courses by experts in the field, as well as tutorials to give thorough training in solving real problems. There is also a series of after-dinner seminars.

When is it?

The dates for Physics by the Lake 2009 have not yet been confirmed, but it is likely to take place in early July.

Where is it?

The school takes place at the University of Cumbria's Ambleside campus, in the heart of the picturesque Lake District, on the north end of Lake Windermere. On-site accommodation and UCSM's legendarily wonderful food are provided for all participants.

Useful links

Who should come to it?

It is primarily aimed at Ph.D. students in theoretical condensed matter physics typically at the end of their first year. Theoretically-inclined experimental condensed matter physics students are also strongly encouraged to take part.

Who pays for it?

The EPSRC will cover full accommodation costs, and course fees for U.K. participants whose Ph.D.s are funded by one of its grants. In addition, Ph.D. students who are funded by University, College or other scholarships but who otherwise would qualify for EPSRC funding can also have their fees covered. A limited number of places with reduced fees can be offered to other UK-based students, through sponsorship provided by the Institute of Physics Theory of Condensed Matter group. Overseas students will typically be required to pay the full cost from their own funds.

What are the subjects of the lecture courses?

The lectures fall into two sets, core subjects and applications. The first set contains three courses each of which comprises six lectures and two tutorials. The second set is varied in length, style and subject matter. The lecture courses offered are:

Core subjects

Applications

Further aspects and applications will be highlighted in a series of evening seminars.

Useful links

What did previous students think?

Here are some typical comments from students who attended the school:

Physics by the Lake is an excellent opportunity to get an overview of condensed matter theory and to see the widely varying areas of current research. I'd recommend the school to all with some interest in condensed matter!
There was a good range of interesting lectures ... well organised and timetabled.
One of the best things about the school was the opportunity to meet other PhD students working in similar areas.
The best thing about the school was the personal contact to lecturers and great discussions about science.
The tutors were easy to approach, and the food, atmosphere and location are excellent.
I am very happy that I was here. I learned a lot of things which will be useful for my Ph.D., I made friends with a couple of people and I enjoyed the landscape and the (party) nights. So I had a great time here!
I really appreciate the effort that went into organising the school and hope it continues for years to come.

How do I apply?

Complete the application form which is available either as a pdf file, or a word file. This should be posted or faxed to the address/number at the end of the form. Confirmation of receipt and the allocation of a place will then be communicated by email.

Informal enquiries from those wishing for more information about the school can be sent to Derek-L [at] physicsbythelake.org.

Where did all the useful stuff about last year's school go?

You can access the course material for previous years. You will need a user name and password. Choose the site for the relevant year: 2005, 2006, 2007 or 2008.

The required user name is the year of the school (2005/2006/2007/2008). The password was given to you at the school; email Richard (richard-b [at] physicsbythelake.org) if you've forgotten it.

We hope to see you in September!