Physics: Light-matter Interaction

The course ‘Light-Matter Interaction’ gives you advanced knowledge in atomic physics. The focus is on how light and matter affect each other in a time-dependent way. You will get an introduction to modern research fields such as atoms in strong laser fields, laser cooling and trapping of atoms, and quantum technology.

After completing the course, you will be able to describe coherent interaction between matter and light using quantum mechanics, make realistic quantum mechanical calculations and solve physical problems in atomic physics. You will also be able to present reports from laboratory work and integrate knowledge from advanced literature. You will learn to manipulate atoms and larger systems with light in a coherent way, a central part of quantum technology. By understanding these processes, you can contribute to advances in areas such as quantum computing and extreme optics.

The course is designed to give you both theoretical and practical experience, making you well prepared for further studies or a career in research and development projects.

The course can be part of a programme in physics, astrophysics, or taken as a stand-alone course. 

The course consists of lectures, calculation exercises and laboratory sessions. The labs are compulsory and are integrated with other teaching. The lectures give you an in-depth theoretical understanding of light-matter interactions, while the exercises give you the opportunity to apply these theories to practical problems. The labs give you hands-on experience with experiments and data analysis, helping you to understand the complex processes of atomic physics.

You will work both individually and in groups, promoting collaboration and critical thinking. The course also includes discussions on current research results and technological advances, giving you a broader understanding of the applications and future possibilities of the subject.

Examination is through a written exam at the end of the course as well as through compulsory laboratory sessions with preparatory tasks and reports. To pass the course, you must pass the exam and pass the laboratory work.

Selection criteria

Seats are allocated according to: ECTS (HPAV): 100 %.

Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA citizens

Citizens of countries outside:

• The European Union (EU)
• The European Economic Area (EEA) and
• Switzerland

are required to pay tuition fees. You pay an instalment of the tuition fee in advance of each
semester.

Tuition fees, payments and exemptions

Full programme/course tuition fee: SEK 21,250
First payment: SEK 21,250

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Note that you may also need to pay an application fee, or provide proof of exemption.

Application fee

No tuition fees for citizens of the EU, EEA and Switzerland

There are no tuition fees for citizens of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland.