Physics and Astronomy

Our brain has an information processing capacity that far exceeds modern supercomputers.

In this specialisation, we aim at unravelling the neuro-computational mechanisms of this fascinating system using experimental approaches and advanced theory.

In an interdisciplinary setting, we study the organisation and function of the brain through experimental approaches, advanced theory and computational models. The programme can be readily adapted to your individual academic background and interests. Apart from fundamental knowledge of the brain, the Neurophysics specialisation also provides you with a general background in the principles of complex systems, and of intelligent behaviour of living and artificial systems.

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From individual molecules to complex solids: study matter on a fundamental quantum-physical level and discover collective and emergent quantum phenomena for future technologies.

Quantum Matter covers the quantum realm in materials science. In this specialisation, you will gain a bottom-up expertise of quantum matter, including a fundamental understanding of collective and emergent quantum phenomena, where the whole is more than the sum of its parts. Not only is this a highly interesting field of fundamental research, our discoveries can also serve as stepping stones toward “tomorrow’s” applications, e.g. energy-efficient materials, spintronics, quantum or neuromorphic computing. This interconnection between theory and practice is represented in our programme, which allows you to decide whether you want a more theoretical or experimental approach - or both.

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Particle physics and Astrophysics both use the laws of physics to study the universe. In this specialisation, you'll dive into extreme worlds and unravel the inner workings of the universe from the smallest to the largest scales.

The Universe is an excellent laboratory: it tells us how the physical laws work under conditions of ultra-high temperature, pressure, magnetic fields, and gravity. In this specialisation you’ll learn how to decode that information, making use of advanced telescopes and observatories. Moreover, we’ll provide you with a thorough theoretical background in particle physics and astrophysics. Within this specialisation, you can choose to focus on astrophysics or high energy physics - or if you're interested in the theories and predictions underlying all experimental work, we offer an extensive programme in mathematical or theoretical physics.