Master Programme in Physics - X-ray and Neutron Science

The use of X-rays and neutrons in both basic and advanced physics has experienced exponential growth in recent decades, owing to their exceptional properties. Lund is proud to host two of the world's leading 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 our unparalleled MSc program, you'll traverse the entire spectrum of X-ray and neutron science, from beam creation to the fundamental physics of their interaction with matter, and their application in cutting-edge measurement techniques.

You will learn how X-rays unveil insights into materials, catalysis, and crystal growth through spectroscopy, diffraction, and microscopy, while neutrons illuminate our understanding of proteins, superconductivity, and magnetism. Additionally, you'll gain insights into the advanced electron and proton accelerators vital for generating X-rays and neutrons. Given their applications across diverse fields, from archaeology to medicine, many research projects adopt an interdisciplinary approach. Our flexible and interdisciplinary master programme, rooted in a solid foundation of physics, enables you to seamlessly blend theoretical or computational studies with experimental methodologies.

As a master student, you'll be immersed in a dynamic research community, actively engaged in pioneering experimental and theoretical investigations spanning materials science, quantum physics and biology. 

Programme courses

Our programme starts with a variety of courses covering general and specialized topics, laying a strong academic groundwork. Then, you have the freedom to tailor your curriculum to match your interests and aspirations. Completing the program involves a master's degree project within our research groups, offering hands-on experience. With access to top-notch facilities and exceptional research groups, you'll have plenty of opportunities for impactful thesis projects.

Here we present the compulsory and recommended courses of the X-ray and neutron science track. Each study period, you're required to select 15 credits worth of courses (typically two half-time courses, unless stated otherwise). Be sure to review the course requirements and reach out to the course coordinator if you have any questions.

To view the general degree requirements for the master programme in physics, please click on the following link:

• General degree requirements

Compulsory courses

• Quantum Physics in Research and Society, FYSN21
• Quantum Mechanics, FYSN27

Alternative-compulsory courses

In addition to the compulsory courses, you are required to choose a minimum of three out of the following five courses (marked with # below):

• Experimental Methods and Instruments for Synchrotron Radiation, MAXM26
• Spectroscopy and the Quantum Description of Matter, FYST65
• Modern X-ray Physics - Diffraction and Imaging, FYST51
• Modern Neutron Physics, FYST52
• Accelerators and Free Electron Lasers, MAXM25

During the second year, you are required to conduct a master's degree project. We suggest opting for a full academic year project, equivalent to 60 ECTS credits, with course code FYSM64. Alternatively, you can pursue a one-semester project worth 30 ECTS credits, with course code FYSM34. If you choose the latter, you can either complete the project full-time for one semester or half-time for two semesters. In addition, you'll need to enrol in courses totalling an extra 30 ECTS credits.

Recommended study plan, year one

Autumn semester, first period

Select two of the three courses:

• Quantum Mechanics, FYSN27 (compulsory)
• Quantum Physics in Research and Society, FYSN21 (compulsory, also given in spring, 1st period)
• Experimental Methods and Instruments for Synchrotron Radiation, MAXM26 (#)

Autumn semester, first period

Select two of the three courses:

• Electronics for physicists, FYSN35 (#)
• Lasers, FYST01
• Computational Science: Introduction to Artificial Neural Networks and Deep Learning, BERN04

Spring semester, first period

Select two of the three courses:

• Modern X-ray Physics - Diffraction and Imaging, FYST51 (#)
• Spectroscopy and the Quantum Description of Matter, FYST65 (#)
• Accelerators and Free Electron Lasers, MAXM25 (#)

Spring semester - second period

• Modern Neutron Physics, FYST52 (#)
• One optional course.

Recommended study plan, year two

Start the 60-credit degree project (FYSM64) or the 30-credits degree project (FYSM34) in parallel with optional courses

How to apply

• For international students - Master programme in Physics - X-ray and Neutron Science - How to apply and more info about the programme on the Lund University International website
• For students from Sweden - Master programme in Physics - X-ray and Neutron Science - How to apply and more info about the programme on the Lund University central website