The structure of the studies program is based on 3 semesters. This period is divided in the following cycles:
- 1st Semester (October to January): Devoted to the basic-background modules, including 4 Modules [(3: Compulsory (C) + 1: Elective (E)]
- 2nd Semester (February to June): Devoted to the specialization modules, including 5 Modules [(1: Compulsory (C)+ 4: Elective (E)]
- 3rd Semester (September to January): Working and Presenting the Master Thesis
The total ECTS corresponding to the program amounts to 90 ECTS and is distributed as follows:
- 4 Compulsory Courses X 7.5 ECTS = 30 ECTS
- 5 Elective Compulsory Courses X 6 ECTS = 30 ECTS
- Mandatory Master’s Thesis = 30 ECTS
Total = 90 ECTS
1st SEMESTER (COMPULSORY, ELECTIVE)
HOURS PER WEEK: 4
ECTS: 7.5
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles of Classical and Quantum Statistical Mechanics, including ensembles, phase space, entropy, and ideal gases. It explores quantum phenomena like Bose-Einstein condensation, Fermi gases, and phase transitions through models such as Ising and van der Waals. Applications in non-equilibrium physics, linear response theory, and transport properties are also examined, offering insights into critical phenomena and advanced statistical methods.
HOURS PER WEEK: 4
ECTS: 7.5
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to Quantum Mechanics and its application to explain the atomic-scale structure and properties of matter. Key topics include harmonic oscillators, angular momentum, spin and perturbation theory. It also gives an introduction to Solid-state Physics, covering, among others, chemical bonding, crystal structures, Bloch’s theorem, density of states, and phonons.
HOURS PER WEEK: 4
ECTS: 6
This course provides hands-on experience in nanomaterial synthesis (sol-gel), stress measurement in steels (Barkhausen effect), and thin film deposition (sputtering and lithography). It introduces advanced characterization techniques, including SEM, TEM, dielectric spectroscopy, DSC, DLS, and fluorescence spectroscopy. Additionally, it explores quantum cryptography through the BB84 protocol for secure communication.
ECTS: 7.5
This course provides an overview of planar technology for IC and MEMS/NEMS fabrication, detailing processes such as lithography, etching, doping, and thin-film deposition. It explores the physics and chemistry of fabrication steps, clean-room protocols, simulation tools, and advanced packaging methods, offering a comprehensive insight into modern semiconductor manufacturing.
2nd SEMESTER (COMPULSORY, ELECTIVE)
ECTS: 7.5
This course explores bulk and low-dimensional semiconductors, covering band structures, density of states, and carrier transport phenomena. Key topics include p-n and metal-semiconductor junctions, MOSFETs, quantum wells, and low-dimensional systems like graphene, carbon nanotubes, and fullerenes. Advanced concepts include the quantum Hall effect, superconductivity, and topological materials with applications in modern electronics.
ECTS: 6
This course explores sensor technologies, covering their evolution into microsystems, physical principles, and MEMS fabrication processes. Topics include physical and biochemical sensors, basic electronic circuits, signal digitalization, and sensor readout techniques. It also addresses sensor data management platforms and wired/wireless communication methods, offering a comprehensive overview of modern sensor applications.
ECTS: 6
This course explores light interactions with biological systems, emphasizing optical biopsy and nanobioimaging techniques like fluorescence microscopy, confocal laser scanning, and AFM. It delves into nanobiophotonics applications in medicine, including photodynamic therapy, nanoparticles, and toxicity studies, while covering microarray technologies for high-throughput biomarker analysis.
ECTS: 6
This course explores nanostructure fabrication through “top-down” methods like plasma etching and lithography, and “bottom-up” techniques like self-assembly and sol-gel processing. Topics include MEMS-NEMS, nanoparticles, nanofibers, and two-dimensional nanostructures, with a focus on characterization methods and machine learning applications. Laboratory exercises provide hands-on experience in plasma processing, nanostructure characterization, and photovoltaic nanofiber fabrication.
ECTS: 6
This course covers CMOS and BiCMOS technologies, analog IC layout, and key circuit design concepts like amplifiers, operational amplifiers, filters, sample-and-hold circuits, and D/A and A/D converters. It includes power management circuits, RF systems, and high-frequency device modeling. Advanced topics include analog implementations of machine learning algorithms and hardware-software co-design for ML systems. Students engage with EDA tools like Cadence for hands-on IC design and a semester-long design project.
HOURS PER WEEK: 3
ECTS: 6
This course introduces quantum mechanics concepts, including Hilbert space, quantum entanglement, and open quantum systems. It covers quantum information topics like qubits, gates, cryptography, and error correction, as well as quantum computation with algorithms such as Shor’s and Grover’s. Physical realizations include NMR, ion traps, optical lattices, quantum dots, superconducting qubits, and topological quantum computing.
HOURS PER WEEK: 3
ECTS: 6
This course explores the fundamentals of quantum optics and quantum information, focusing on the behavior of light and matter at the quantum level. Topics include canonical quantization, quantum states of light, entanglement, quantum imaging, and quantum communication. Students will study advanced applications such as atomic clocks, laser cooling, and quantum cryptography. Laboratory sessions offer hands-on experience with quantum algorithms and simulations using real and simulated quantum computers.
ECTS: 6
This course covers the principles of statistical mechanics and molecular simulations, including Monte Carlo and molecular dynamics methods for calculating thermodynamic, structural, and transport properties. Advanced techniques for coarse-grained modeling and rare event dynamics are introduced. Applications include polymer melts, membranes, zeolites, and nanocomposites, emphasizing structure, self-organization, and rheological behavior.
ECTS: 6
This course explores principles of electromagnetic optics, including dielectric propagation, Fresnel equations, and waveguides. It covers laser diodes, erbium-doped fiber amplifiers, LEDs, and integrated optics growth methods. Topics include light modulators, Fabry-Perot and Mach-Zender interferometers, Pockels and Kerr effects, and micro-electro-mechanical systems (MOEMS) with applications in telecommunications and sensing systems.
HOURS PER WEEK: 3
ECTS: 6
This course covers conservation laws in continuum mechanics, slip/no-slip conditions, and gas flow in microchannels. It explores transport phenomena, micropump operation, and microsensors for pressure and velocity. Topics include MEMS-based flow control, microfabrication technologies for Si, glass, and polymers, sealing methods, and applications in (bio)chemical analysis with micro-total analysis systems.
ECTS: 6
This course explores nanostructured polymers and organic-inorganic nanocomposites, focusing on their synthesis, properties, and applications in structural materials, packaging, and biomedicine. It also covers the electrical properties of organic materials, conducting nanocomposites, and their use in molecular electronics, photovoltaics, and electromagnetic shielding.
ECTS: 6
This course explores advanced transistor technologies, including MOSFETs, FinFETs, and tunnel FETs, focusing on short-channel effects, ballistic transport, and quantum devices such as single-electron transistors and qubits. Topics include high-k dielectrics, 2D materials, and carbon nanotubes, as well as memory devices, resistive switching technologies, neuromorphic applications, and nanoparticle sensors for cutting-edge device innovations.
ECTS: 6
This course covers the fundamentals of magnetism, including diamagnetism, paramagnetism, ferromagnetism, and magnetic phenomena like magnetostriction and magneto-resistance. Topics include magnetic characterization techniques, magnetic materials (alloys, oxides, and superconductors), and applications in sensors, transducers, and data storage technologies. Lab exercises include magnetization loops, fluxgate magnetometers, Barkhausen noise, and non-volatile memory systems.
HOURS PER WEEK: 3
ECTS: 6
This course explores nanoparticle stabilization, aggregation, and sintering techniques, with a focus on hybrid synthesis and environmental applications. Laboratory exercises include lyophilization, core-shell particle development, hydroxyapatite nanopowder synthesis, and green tea-extracted nano-iron for water remediation. Advanced topics cover thin film deposition and nanostructured coatings.
3rd SEMESTER (COMPULSORY)
At the beginning of the third academic semester, each postgraduate student must submit an application to the Secretariat of the School of Applied Mathematical and Physical Sciences (SAMPS) to undertake a Postgraduate Diploma Thesis. The application should include the proposed title, the suggested supervisor, and a brief summary of the intended thesis.
ECTS: 30