This course gives an overview of important concepts in classical dynamics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, quantum physics, atomic physics, and special relativity. Emphasis is placed on demonstrating key phenomena using experiments, and in developing skills for quantitative problem solving.

Basic topics in classical as well as modern physics, interplay between basic research and applications.

Introductory course on quantum and atomic physics including optics and statistical physics.

Classical and semi-classical introduction to Quantum Electronics. Mandatory for further elective courses in Quantum Electronics. The field of Quantum Electronics describes propagation of light and its interaction with matter. The emphasis is set on linear wave and beam propagation in dispersive media, interference, diffraction, optical anisotropic materials, waveguides and lasers.

Introduction to ultrafast laser physics with an outlook into cutting edge research topics such as attosecond science and coherent ultrafast sources from THz to X-rays.

In condensed matter physics, “ultrafast” refers to dynamics on the picosecond and femtosecond time scales, the time scales where atoms vibrate and electronic spins flip. Measuring real-time dynamics on these time scales is key to understanding materials in nonequilibrium states. This course offers an overview and understanding of the methods used to accomplish this in modern research laboratories.