Advanced Quantum and Nanophotonic Systems

The Advanced Quantum and Nanophotonic Systems Master’s program equips students with an in-depth understanding of fundamental physics and hands-on lab experience necessary for their future careers in industry or academia. Its curriculum covers the fundamentals of electrodynamics, quantum mechanics, and solid-state physics. The program’s lecturers deliver a wide range of up-to-date courses (nanophotonics, quantum optics, numerical methods, etc.) and offer intensive lab training at the research center facilities using optical and radiofrequency devices, a laser writing technique, and nanofabrication. 

Deeply involved in research during their studies, students not only apply their knowledge in practice but also gain real-world experience working in cutting-edge scientific fields. Our students are engaged in international projects, work with high-tech equipment, publish articles in top peer-reviewed journals, speak at national and international events, as well as organize international scientific schools and workshops. Every week, the faculty helds open scientific workshops featuring Russian and international guest (visiting) researchers to discuss latest problems in theoretical physics, optics, and radiophysics.

The program includes four specializations:

Nanophotonics

Nanophotonics plays an important role in modern science, from fundamental research to medicine and information technology. ITMO’s Nanophotonics specialization is the only one in this field in Russia and one of the few programs in the world that trains specialists in nanophotonics and metamaterials. During their training, students not only gain knowledge and skills working on projects but also actively participate in advanced international research.

Hybrid Materials

Mainly focused on interdisciplinary research, the specialization is aimed at students with different career backgrounds (physicists, chemists, materials scientists, or biologists) wishing to carry out research at the intersection of disciplines. Students of the Hybrid Materials specialization study the basics of numerical modeling, materials science, experimental nanophotonics, and organic chemistry. All students will have the chance to work on projects under the supervision of specialists with an extensive interdisciplinary background. Our graduates are in demand in various research fields such as metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), targeted drug delivery, biosensors, and so on.

Quantum Materials

This specialization focuses on theoretical methods for modeling materials (and, in general, condensed matter) using multiparticle quantum correlations qualitatively changing the properties of systems. It provides an in-depth study of spintronics, as well as analytical and numerical methods for first-principles materials modeling.

In the course of their traning, students will take part in projects on quantum mechanical modeling of materials properties and study machine learning methods used in quantum physics and quantum computing.

Computer Modeling of Quantum and Nanophotonic Systems

Computational physics lies at the intersection of physics, mathematics, and information technology. A large amount of related research, both fundamental and applied, requires the use of various calculations and hence specialists with an expertise in physics and mathematics who can not only use ready-made software but also can develop their own programs. Students of the Computer Modeling specialization at ITMO obtain all the skills and knowledge needed to pursue their research careers or execute industrial projects related to both applied physics and IT. The specializations combine both specialized and general courses associated with physics, mathematics, and programming. The program covers the methods of computational and applied mathematics and machine learning, such aspects of computational physics as integration of dynamical systems, modeling of semiconductor and optical devices, and offers practical classes in software development. Students can also choose additional courses in physics and mathematics from other specializations, as well as join specialized group projects and develop their own software under the supervision of professional programmers.