This PhD program is run by the entire physics section of the department and it aims at optimally supporting particularly gifted students in their own independent research. To this end, the program conveys and advances in particular research topics of the area Soft Matter Physics, Solid State Physics and Nonlinear Dynamics, in addition to promoting interdisciplinary knowledge and soft skills.
Physics is a science at the cross section of many areas. In addition to a high standard of physics expertise, it therefore requires a solid familiarity with interdisciplinary concepts and an ability to communicate complex scientific issues to both specialists and non-specialists alike. In this program, we foster the ability of PhD students to carry out independent research within a broad scientific context and we advance their ability to communicate science. The program aims eventually at enabling students to take over high-profile jobs with responsibility in education, research, industry or society.
The scientific research project forms the core of each doctorate, yet in the context of this PhD program, we offer additional qualifications to young scientists. These qualifications go beyond the immediate research topic and enable the young scientists to contribute creatively to the development and dissemination of novel scientific concepts. In addition to his or her research work, every PhD student therefore acquires individual qualifications, tailored to suit the needs of his or her scientific research project as well as to suit personal abilities and preferences. In this way, the PhD program prepares for the various and different tasks physicists take on in our society.