At York University, we offer a broad mix of experimental, theoretical, and computational experiences in Physics, Astronomy, and Biomedical Physics at both undergraduate (B.Sc.) and graduate (M.Sc. and Ph.D.) levels in a research-intensive environment. Undergraduate students have the opportunity to participate in the York University Co-op Program.
Latest News
Our Achievements
Faculty of Science PhD student Coral Hillel was selected to attend the 75th Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting in Germany, where 600 outstanding young scientists from around the world came together to connect with and learn from 72 Nobel Laureates. Representing both York University and Canada, Coral joined researchers from across disciplines to exchange ideas on today's most pressing scientific challenges.
Recent Faculty of Science graduate Seyed Masoumi earned 1st Place in the Division of Physics in Medicine and Biology before going on to win Best Overall across all 10 physics divisions at the 2026 Canadian Association of Physicists Annual Conference student research competition. His research explores new ways to use light to control cell behaviour without genetic modification, with potential applications in medicine and other emerging technologies.
Professor Wendy Taylor of the Department of Physics and Astronomy is currently serving as President of the Canadian Association of Physicists, Canada’s national professional society and advocacy group for physicists, representing 1,800 physicists across the country. In this role, Taylor helps advance initiatives that promote physics education and public engagement.
Professor Patrick Hall, York graduate student and lead author Lucas Seaton, graduate student Marianna Veltri, and undergraduate student Zezhou Zhu were part of a team that discovered the fastest wind near a supermassive black hole ever found at ultraviolet wavelengths, with gas travelling at up to 30 per cent the speed of light. The discovery provides new insights into the powerful winds surrounding supermassive black holes.
Student Spotlights
Undergraduate
York students work in modern laboratories and can join research projects with leading professors.
Graduate
York graduate students can study cutting-edge physics topics like dark matter and dark energy.
Research Spotlights
Professor Adam Muzzin
Professor Adam Muzzin studies the formation of galaxies. Watch to learn more about his story.
Professor Chris Bergevin
Professor Chris Bergevin studies the biophysics of hearing. Watch to learn more about his research
Isaac Newton Apple Trees at York
It's been said that an apple falling from a tree in Isaac Newton's family's garden in 1666 inspired him to formulate his theory of gravity. York University's Keele Campus is home to trees descended from that very same apple tree!