Research in Physics, Cosmology Leiden University

Overview

In the field of cosmology, we look for scientific answers to the most fundamental questions that one can ask: Where do we come from? How did the Universe start? How did it evolve and where does it go?
Cosmology is positioned at the interface between Theoretical Physics and Observational Astronomy. This specialisation is offered in collaboration with the also internationally well-known Leiden Observatory. It covers research subject like: observations of the universe with state-of-the-art telescopes on Earth and in space, supercomputer simulations of the origin of structure, Theoretical Physics study of the Hot Big Bang, the expanding universe, and inflation are providing a consistent picture of our universe that is quite precise, yet full of unknown physics waiting to be discovered.

Research in this area is moving fast, and requires familiarity with current theoretical ideas as well as a basic understanding of the data. The overall aim is to train you in this exciting research field, preferably in an integrated Cosmology master's and PhD degree programme.

If you are a theoretical-oriented student who would like to discover all aspects of modern astrophysics - which includes observation, interpretation, simulation and theory, this is the right specialisation.

What you will learn

The Master of Science programme consists of a compulsory and an optional part.
You have ample opportunities to assemble your own study path. The courses cover the full spectrum from theoretical early universe to observational cosmology.
The MSc curriculum consists of one year course work, and two significantly different research projects supervised by different staff members.

Career prospects

Since the study of physics is at the crossroads of a broad range of research fields, it provides students with an excellent prospective for future work in many careers. It opens the door to a career in high-tech industry, software and consultancy companies worldwide, or a career as a teacher, science communicator or science policy maker. It is also a stepping-stone for graduates with the ambition and aspiration to pursue a PhD degree.

Accreditation

Accredited by NVAO, the Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders.