Quantum Gravity and the Theory of Everything
3 October 2026
10:00am-5:00pm
Rewley House 1 Wellington Square, Oxford, OX1 2JA
Event status:
Applications being accepted
Dates:
3 October 2026
Study Format:
In-person day/weekend
Fees:
£90.00
Unlock the mysteries of the universe and embark on a journey of scientific inquiry in this day-long course on quantum gravity and the Theory of Everything. In this course, we will explore the motivations driving this research, including the quest to reconcile general relativity with quantum mechanics, two fundamental pillars of modern physics. We will investigate theoretical frameworks such as string theory, which proposes that the universe's fundamental building blocks are one-dimensional strings, or loop quantum gravity, which sees spacetime as a granular structure. We will also delve into the intricacies of each framework and gain valuable insights into the latest research in this field.
By participating in this course, you will deepen your understanding of one of the most intriguing scientific puzzles of our time. We will explore the limits of our current understanding of the universe and discover the fascinating areas of inquiry that lie ahead. Whether you are an enthusiast or someone with some scientific background, this course will offer a unique opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research and ideas.
You will have the opportunity to ask questions, engage in discussions, and connect with other like-minded individuals who share a similar passion for science.
Please note: this event will close to enrolments at 23:59 BST on 30 September 2026.
Book this course
Book your place online using the button below.
Accommodation
If you wish to stay with us before and/or after the event, please contact our Residential Centre for availability and discounted rates.
Call +44 (0) 1865 270362 or email res-ctr@conted.ox.ac.uk
Our accommodation in at Rewley House in Wellington Square has been rated as 4-Star Campus Accommodation under Visit England. All bedrooms are modern, comfortably furnished with tea/coffee making facilities, Freeview television, private bath/shower rooms and free WiFi. For more details see our accommodation information.
Recommended reading
Smolin, L., Three Roads to Quantum Gravity (Basic Books, 2000)
Greene, B., The Elegant Universe: Superstrings, Hidden Dimensions, and the Quest for the Ultimate Theory (W. W. Norton & Company, 1999)
Programme details
9.45am
Registration at Rewley House reception
10am
The four fundamental forces
11.15am
Tea/coffee break
11.45am
Relativity and quantum physics
1pm
Lunch break
2pm
The search for quantum gravity: strings versus loops
3.15pm
Tea/coffee break
3.45pm
The Theory of Everything
5pm
End of day
Fees
| Description | Costs |
|---|---|
| Event Fee (includes tea/coffee) | £90.00 |
| Baguette lunch | £7.90 |
| Hot lunch | £22.40 |
Funding
If you are in receipt of a UK state benefit, or are a care-leaver in the UK, you may be eligible for a reduction of 50% of tuition fees. Please see the below link for full details:
Concessionary fees for short courses
Payment
Please see the terms and conditions for our open-access courses.
Dr Andrea Russo
Andrea completed his PhD at University College London, where he studied aspects of classical–quantum gravity and quantum information theory under the supervision of Prof. Jonathan Oppenheim. His work includes studying stochastic effects in hybrid classical–quantum theories of matter coupled to spacetime, reformulating quantum field theory without explicit reference to time, and investigating connections between quantum complexity and spacetime geometry.
More recently, he has explored consistent couplings of quantum fields to classical gravity, with the aim of addressing the quantum gravity problem without requiring a full quantization of spacetime. Andrea previously studied mathematical physics at the University of Nottingham and obtained his Master’s degree in Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics from the University of Cambridge.
Module code: O26P101PYJ
Please use the ‘Book’ button on this page. Alternatively, please contact us to obtain an application form.
