MSc Optical Technologies

You'll study laser physics, laser optics and nonlinear optics as required for the work in many photonic labs.

You'll gain necessary skills in IT, working with literature, data analysis, and written and oral communication to support a great learning experience in your programme.

You'll gain experience of research techniques by performing an open-ended cutting-edge research project that runs over summer after the taught component of the MSc. The topic may be from a programme relevant field in physics or its interdisciplinary applications. Students with the corresponding ambition and relevant qualification will be supported to find an alternative placement in chemistry or an industrial placement but this depends on availability. The work is normally carried out in the research laboratories under the individual supervision of an experienced researcher.

You'll gain core skills needed to obtain research funding and successfully manage the resulting research in both an academic and a commercial environment.

You'll learn basic concepts relating to nanoscale physics and techniques associated with production and characterisation of nanomaterials/nanostructures, as well as their potential impact in engineering, energy and healthcare.

You'll study semiconductor physics, semiconductor electronics and semiconductor photonics with an outlook on micro and nano-structures and current hot topics.

You'll learn basic concepts, mathematical tools and design methods of classical control theory. The course enables you to analyse and design closed loop control system specifically using industrial three term (PID) controllers and to appreciate the application of control theory in industrial applications.

You'll gain a basic conceptual understanding and working knowledge of fibre optic communications systems and their component parts addressing basic principles, engineering, design and performance limits.

You'll study Python programming and its application to solve physics-problems as curve fitting, Fourier transforms, solving ordinary differential equations, etc.

You'll study advanced photonics devices including their principles and applications (quantum confinement, waveguide optics, photonic and electronic bandgaps, photonic crystals).

You'll study lens design, the characterisation and optimisation of system performance including practical exercises with Oslo software. (The course might not run every year depending on interest by a sufficient number of students).

You'll study laser-plasma interaction, in particular with very high power and ultrashort pulses, and the resulting applications in radiation sources from the terahertz to the X-ray region, laser fusion and laser-based particle acceleration.

You'll carry out open-ended practical work in the laboratory conveying the basic skills of instrument handling, data management, record keeping, and develop report-writing and oral presentation skills. You're required to complete two experiments selected from a range of topics.

You'll study spectroscopy, imaging and microscopy techniques associated with modern nanoscience such as:

• fluorescence methods
• single molecule imaging and microscopic techniques
• atomic force microscopy (AFM)
• electron microscopy