Physics: Modern X-ray Physics - Diffraction and Imaging
How can X-rays reveal structures invisible to the naked eye? In this course, you’ll learn how X-rays are used to investigate materials – from atomic structure to advanced imaging using synchrotron radiation.
Start
Spring 2027
Level
Master's
Language
English
Place of study
Lund
Course code
FYST51
This course provides a solid introduction to how X-rays interact with matter and how this interaction is used in both research and applications. The focus is on diffraction and imaging, particularly using methods employed at synchrotron facilities such as MAX IV. You will learn about X-ray sources, scattering and absorption, refraction and reflection, as well as optics and detectors.
The course covers scattering from crystalline materials (XRD) and non-crystalline materials (SAXS), along with advanced techniques such as XAS, XRF and coherent X-ray imaging. You will also gain an understanding of concepts like the reciprocal lattice, Ewald’s sphere and Fourier transforms.
The course includes lab sessions, projects and, if possible, an experiment at MAX IV. It is ideal for students who want to understand how X-ray physics is used to analyse materials in depth. The course can be taken as part of a master’s programme in physics or as a stand-alone course.
Teaching includes lectures, laboratory sessions, group exercises and project work. You will gain hands-on experience working with X-ray data and instrumentation, and practise interpreting results from various techniques.
Assessment is based on a written exam, assignments, lab reports and a project report. To pass the course, active participation in all mandatory components is required. The course is designed to give you both theoretical understanding and practical skills in modern X-ray physics, with a strong link to experimental research at synchrotron facilities.
Entry requirements
Konowledge in Physics at University level, in the form of basic Atomic Physics, Electromagnetism and Optics.
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 23,125
First payment: SEK 23,125
Note that you may also need to pay an application fee, or provide proof of exemption.
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.
A wide range of courses in physics and astronomy
The Department of Physics offers a stimulating study environment where students, lecturers and researchers come together to explore the many facets of physics. Here, you will study in close proximity to lecture halls and experimental facilities. Your lecturers are active researchers who can link the course material to the latest research. It was no coincidence that Anne L’Huillier got aware of her Nobel Prize (2023) just as she was teaching atomic physics.
