Profile
Philip Ratcliffe
My CV
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Education:
Cambridge U. (’73-’76), Imperial Col. (’79-’80), SISSA Trieste (’81-’83)
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Qualifications:
A-levels in Physics Maths and Chemistry (Leicester)
B.A. in Physics (Trinity College, Cambridge)
Ph.D. in Theoretical Particle Physics (Triest)
M.Inst.P., Chartered Physicist (UK Institute of Physics) -
Work History:
Researcher at:
– Cambridge University,
– Queen Mary College (London),
– Milan University (Italy),
– Insubria University in Como (Italy)
Professor at:
– Insubria University in Como (Italy) -
Current Job:
Associate Professor of Nuclear and Sub-nuclear Physics
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About Me:
I am a university researcher and lecturer in nuclear and particle physics, father of two and a rugby coach.
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I live in Monza (near Milan in Italy) and work in Como (a half-hour train commute from home). I’m married to an Italian physicist who works in Milan; we have two children, who both attend university in Milan – neither of them studies physics! I also coach rugby in my spare time.
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I lecture on the undergraduate and masters level physics courses. In particular I teach advanced quantum mechanics, quantum field theory and nuclear and subnuclear physics but in the past I have also taught basic physics courses.
My research field is high-energy particle physics theory. I have written a fair number of research papers published in specialised international journals and have also written two books, the first is an advanced (postgraduate) textbook while the other (published by the UK Institute of Physics) is an introductory text on particle physics for undergraduates.
I have also organised various specialised conferences and workshops.
On the bureaucratic side, I have served on the University Academic Senate and Governing Board, I was also a long serving Physics Ph.D. programme director and head of the Physics Group of my department.
Finally, I am a Italian level-3 rugby coach (both 15 and 7 a-side) and currently coach the U14 & 16 girls’ teams at a local club. -
My Typical Day:
Classroom lecture to undergraduates, read new research papers and attend meetings. Try to work on various research projects.
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My Interview
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How would you describe yourself in 3 words?
Rugby-coaching physicist
What did you want to be after you left school?
A physicist
Were you ever in trouble at school?
Yes
Who is your favourite singer or band?
Led Zeppelin
What's your favourite food?
Fiorentina (a very very thick Italian steak) accompanied by a good Barolo (an excellent Italian wine)
If you had 3 wishes for yourself what would they be? - be honest!
Nobel prize in physics, international cap in rugby (preferably for England winning vs. New Zealand), a trip to Mars … and back.
Tell us a joke.
Two atoms walking down the street. One says to the other: "I think I've lost an electron." The other asks: "Are you sure?" Reply: "Yes. I'm positive."
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