University of Oxford - The Metaswitch Prize for a best use of Software in a MPhys Project

What you get

For the best use of software in your Master’s thesis, you will receive a one-off cash prize of about 189 EUR (£150). The prize is awarded by the Department of Physics at the University of Oxford. It is funded by the technology company Metaswitch Networks. It is intended to recognise outstanding achievements in the fields of programming and computer-based work and is not intended as long-term funding for your studies.

Who can apply

• Course: You are studying for a Master’s degree in Physics (MPhys) at the University of Oxford.
• What is judged: Your final dissertation will be judged on how effectively you have used software, for example for simulations, data analysis or your own programming.
• Nationality: Applicants of all nationalities are welcome to apply. There are no restrictions regarding nationality.

How to apply

You don’t need to apply. The examiners select the winner when they mark the dissertations. So all you need to do is be enrolled on the MPhys programme at Oxford and submit a compelling dissertation.

How realistic are your chances?

Only one student wins each year, and the prize goes to what is by far the best software-based project of the year’s cohort. The competition is therefore fierce. You cannot improve your chances by submitting an application; you can only do so through outstanding computer science achievements in your project. If programming and data analysis are your strengths, you’ll have the best chance with a project that clearly showcases them.