Research in Physics, Biological and Soft Matter Physics Leiden University

Overview

In this specialisation you will focus on understanding the principles, which determine the characteristics of soft materials like foam, and that of biological processes occurring in cells and tissue.
Research within the Physics and Biological and Soft Matter specialisation is typically performed at the interface of medical, biological, chemical and physical sciences.

The programme covers two themes:

* Biological Physics is concerned with physical processes of biomolecules, the emerging properties that evolve in cells, and the control of cell function by signalling.
* Soft Matter Physics concentrates on the mechanical and geometrical properties of soft media such as granular matter or foam, and on self-assembly in soft-matter systems.

Biological and Soft-Matter Physics is the right master's programme for you if you are interested in experimental Physics and applied life-science research. This programme guarantees a thorough experience at the frontline of physics research with a practical training of communicative and computer skills.

What you will learn

The programme offers you the ability to combine experimental research with theoretical courses. The programme helps you grow into an independent and skilled physicist.
The courses 'Quantum theory A' and 'Statistical physics A' are compulsory, the other courses can be chosen from a wide spectrum of (mainly Physics, Astronomy, and Mathematics) courses at Leiden University, and sometimes even at other universities or graduate schools.

The programme can to a high degree be tailored to individual needs and interests. However, it should have a sufficient level and cohesion and the elective part requires approval of the Board of Examiners in advance.

The experimental part of this master programme comprises two experimental projects. One research project will be performed in a research group within the Leiden Institute of Physics (LION). The other research project can be done in a research group within or outside LION. Both research projects include a master's thesis and an oral presentation.

Career prospects

The Experimental Physics specialisation concentrates on the subjects of the different research groups in the Leiden Institute of Physics (LION). Career prospects depend on the choice of courses and the groups where the research projects have been performed.

Accreditation

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