MSc in Physics, X-ray and Neutron Science
Lund University
Key Information
Campus location
Lund, Sweden
Languages
English
Study format
On-Campus
Duration
2 years
Pace
Full time
Tuition fees
SEK 290,000 / per year *
Application deadline
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Earliest start date
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* for Non-EU/EEA citizens. There are no tuition fees for EU/EEA and Switzerland citizens
Scholarships
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Introduction
Programme overview
The use of X-rays and neutrons in basic and advanced physics has expanded enormously the last decades, due to their exceptional properties, and Lund hosts two of the world’s best facilities: The world’s first 4th generation synchrotron radiation X-ray source, the MAX IV Laboratory, and the neutron facility European Spallation Source (ESS). In this world-unique MSc programme, you will study the entire chain of X-ray and neutron science: from the creation of X-ray and neutron beams to the fundamental physics of the interaction of such beams with matter and their application in advanced measurement methods.
You will learn how X-rays can be used to understand materials, catalysis and crystal growth by spectroscopy, diffraction and microscopy, and how neutrons can be used to understand proteins, superconductivity and magnetism. You will also learn about the advanced electron and proton accelerators that are needed for the generation of X-rays and neutrons. Since these probes are used in a wide range of fields, from archaeology to medicine, many research projects are interdisciplinary. The Master’s programme is flexible and interdisciplinary, with a clear foundation in physics, and it is possible to combine theoretical or computational studies with experimental approaches.
As a Master's student, you will become part of a vibrant research community, engaged in cutting-edge experimental and theoretical studies of problems in materials science, quantum physics and biology. The programme includes a Master's project carried out within one of the research groups. The close proximity to large-scale facilities and excellent materials science research groups provides excellent opportunities for inspiring Master’s thesis research projects.
Curriculum
Programme structure
The X-ray and neutron science programme offers a wide range of courses. You should choose 15 hp (credits) of courses for each study period (all are 7.5 hp half-time courses unless otherwise stated). Remember to check the course requirements and contact the course responsible if in doubt.
During the second year, you should do a Master's degree project corresponding to 30 ECTS credits, course code MAXM30.
Two courses are mandatory:
- FYSN21: Quantum Physics in Research and Society
- FYSN17: Quantum Mechanics
You also have to take at least three of these five (marked with * below):
- MAXM07: Introduction to Accelerators and Free Electron Lasers
- MAXM16: Experimental Methods and Instruments for Synchrotron Radiation
- FYST20: Spectroscopy and the Quantum Description of Matter
- FYST51: Modern X-ray Physics - Diffraction and Imaging
- FYST52: Modern Neutron Science
Recommended courses
Autumn semester - first period:
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| Spring semester - first period:
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Career Opportunities
Career prospects
A Master of Science in X-rays and neutrons will give you opportunities to pursue a wide variety of careers. Examples of career prospects are a researcher at one of the many companies using X-rays and neutrons, PhD studies in the areas of x-ray and neutron science, or research engineer at large scale facilities. Graduates of the programme will be well qualified for PhD programmes in physics and related fields.