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Perimeter Scholars International

Why PSI?

PSI provides an exciting new path for you to follow, from physics student to physics researcher. Working with other bright, highly motivated students from around the world, you will be taught by some of the world's best lecturers to solve problems that underlie the foundations of physics, in the inspiring environment of the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics, while earning a Master of Science degree in Physics from the University of Waterloo.

The Power of Theoretical Physics

The goal of theoretical physics is to identify the basic mathematical principles relevant to a particular physical problem and then to translate those principles into accurate predictions. Historical successes include the dynamics of planetary motion, thermodynamics, relativity, quantum mechanics, the theory of the transistor, and many others. Future examples will include unifying quantum mechanics with gravity and understanding and predicting new fundamental particles and new states of matter.

Course Philosophy

Learning at PSI is very different from other graduate courses. PSI is designed to cultivate and reinforce students' abilities in critical and creative thinking since these are the skills that drive new scientific breakthroughs.

 

Student Experience

Students will live close to the Perimeter Institute and attend lectures and study in a dedicated facility. Working with renowned lecturers, tutors, and each other, you will be immersed in an environment of great science, learning and discovery.

 
 

Perimeter Scholars International

Perimeter Scholars International (PSI) Provides New Opportunity for Young Researchers

Unique Masters Course Now Accepting Applications

Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, December 9, 2008 - Canada's Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics (PI), in partnership with the University of Waterloo, has launched Perimeter Scholars International (PSI), a concentrated Masters level course for exceptional students who wish to become researchers in theoretical physics.

The 10-month course will be taught at the Perimeter Institute by outstanding international lecturers. Participants will be brought to the cutting edge of fundamental physics across a wide range of research disciplines, and conduct a specialized research project under the supervision of a faculty member at one of the local universities. The course will prepare students for PhD research in Theoretical Physics.

"Theoretical physics is the basis for much of modern science and technology. PSI is designed for adventurous students who wish to understand the deep principles underlying the physical world and how to translate them into observational predictions," says Neil Turok, Perimeter Institute Director. "Our aim is to attract and nurture the brightest talents from across Canada and around the world and enable them to become brilliant young researchers contributing to future discoveries."

The Masters degree will be issued by the University of Waterloo (UW), an internationally recognized university within walking distance of PI. UW President David Johnston says, "We are very pleased to join forces with Perimeter Institute and help propel this new model for research training. Such a program is long overdue. The ingenuity of PI and the academic foundation at UW will provide young researchers with unique opportunities to develop their skills." Amit Chakma, UW Vice-President, Academic and Provost, adds, "PSI will see an influx of top talent into the existing research culture here in Waterloo, Ontario, while stimulating a new generation of scientists who can drive future discoveries of incalculable benefit to our world."

PSI will enroll its first 25 students in August 2009, and will eventually grow to 50 scholars per year. Fully funded scholarships will be available as needed. Applications should be submitted by February 1st, 2009 in order to receive full consideration. For detailed information regarding all procedures, scholarship opportunities, supervision, accreditation, and program leadership, please visit the PSI website.

About Perimeter Institute

Canada's Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics is an independent, non-profit, scientific research and educational outreach organization where international scientists cluster to push the limits of our understanding of physical laws and develop new ideas about the very essence of space, time, matter and information. The award-winning research centre provides a multi-disciplinary environment to foster research in areas of Cosmology, Particle Physics, Quantum Foundations, Quantum Gravity, Quantum Information, Superstring Theory, and related areas. The Institute, located in Waterloo, Ontario, also provides a wide array of educational outreach activities for students, teachers and members of the general public in order to share the joy of scientific research, discovery and innovation. In partnership with the Governments of Ontario and Canada, Perimeter Institute continues to be a successful example of private and public collaboration in science research and education. A full history is available at www.perimeterinstitute.ca.

PSI Program inquiries can be directed to John Berlinsky, PSI Director, at psi@perimeterinstitute.ca

All other inquiries, such as media requests, should be directed to Angela Robinson at arobinson@perimeterinstitute.ca