Dr. Ariel Zhitnitsky

Professor

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Biography

Ariel Zhitnitsky is a Professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of British Columbia. He has a distinguished research profile focused on Theoretical Physics, especially in the realms of Particle Theory, Astrophysics, and Cosmology. Zhitnitsky has made significant contributions to the field, particularly in his work on axions which are proposed solutions to the strong CP violation problem in quantum chromodynamics. His early model, known as the DFSZ model, has been influential and has prompted ongoing experimental searches. His research interests also extend into dark matter, dark energy, and the properties of neutron stars. He has authored numerous papers, with a total of 155 publications in refereed journals as of April 2020, including 56 single-authored works. Zhitnitsky has received several awards, including the UBC Killam Research Prize and the CAP-CRM Prize in Theoretical Mathematical Physics. His career began at the Institute of Nuclear Physics in Novosibirsk, Russia, and he has held long-term visiting positions at prestigious institutions such as CERN and Princeton. He is actively engaged in supervising graduate students and shaping future researchers in his field.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

— Present

University of British Columbia • Vancouver, BC, Canada

Teaching and researching in the areas of Theoretical Physics, Particle Theory, Astrophysics, and Cosmology.

Awards

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UBC Killam Research Prize

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UBC Killam Fellowship

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CAP-CRM Prize in Theoretical Mathematical Physics

Requirements for University of British Columbia

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6.5
Reading
Required:6.5
Writing
Required:6.5
Speaking
Required:6.5
Overall
Required:7
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:22
Writing
Required:21
Speaking
Required:21
Total
Required:100
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Philosophy or related field 3 credits in formal logic 6 credits at the upper level in history of philosophy 3 credits at the upper level in ethics or value theory 6 credits at the upper level in metaphysics, epistemology, or philosophy of science
Application Checklist
  • Online application form
  • Application fee
  • Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Writing sample (15-20 pages)
  • Statement of intent
  • Evidence of English language proficiency
Specialization Notes

Offers course-only and thesis routes. Focus areas include philosophy of science, mind, ethics, and Asian philosophy.