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402-0843-00L 10 Credits DR , MSC D-PHYS , D-MATH
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Quantum Field Theory I

Lecturers & Examiners: Prof. Dr. Gian Michele Graf
Special Students UZH must book the module PHY551 directly at UZH.
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-02-05 15:48:21

Abstract

This course discusses the quantisation of fields in order to introduce a coherent formalism for the combination of quantum mechanics and special relativity.Topics include:- Relativistic quantum mechanics- Quantisation of bosonic and fermionic fields- Interactions in perturbation theory- Scattering processes and decays- Elementary processes in QED- Radiative corrections

Objective

The goal of this course is to provide a solid introduction to the formalism, the techniques, and important physical applications of quantum field theory. Furthermore it prepares students for the advanced course in quantum field theory (Quantum Field Theory II), and for work on research projects in theoretical physics, particle physics, and condensed-matter physics.

Resources

Lecture Notes

Will be provided as the course progresses

General Information

Language
English
Levels
DR , MSC
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
session examination
Mode
written 180 minutes
Aids
none

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
lecture Quantum Field Theory I
**together with University of Zurich** Lecture starts on 23 September 2021.
  • Mon 13:45-15:30 (HPV G 4)
  • Mon 15:45-16:30 (HPV G 4)
  • Thu 09:45-11:30 (HPV G 5)
4 h weekly
exercise Quantum Field Theory I
**together with University of Zurich** Thu 14-16 or Fri 10-12 Exercises start in the second week of the semester.
  • Thu 13:45-15:30 (HCP E 47.4)
  • Thu 13:45-15:30 (HIL B 21)
  • Thu 13:45-15:30 (HIL D 10.2)
  • Thu 13:45-15:30 (HIT H 42)
  • Fri 09:45-11:30 (HIT J 51)
  • Fri 09:45-11:30 (HIT J 53)
  • Fri 09:45-11:30 (HIT K 52)
2 h weekly

Offered In

  • Mathematics Master
    • Application Area (Only necessary and eligible for the Master degree in Applied Mathematics. One of the application areas specified must be selected for the category Application Area for the Master degree in Applied Mathematics. At least 8 credits are required in the chosen application area.)
      • Theoretical Physics (In the Master's programme in Applied Mathematics 402-0205-00L Quantum Mechanics I is eligible as a course unit in the application area Theoretical Physics, but only if 402-0224-00L Theoretical Physics wasn't or isn't recognised for credits (neither in the Bachelor's nor in the Master's programme). For the category assignment take contact with the Study Administration Office ( ) after having received the credits.)
    • Electives (For the Master's degree in Applied Mathematics the following additional condition (not manifest in myStudies) must be obeyed: At least 15 of the required 28 credits from core courses and electives must be acquired in areas of applied mathematics and further application-oriented fields.)
  • Physics Master
    • Core Courses (One Core Course in Experimental or Theoretical Physics from Physics Bachelor is eligible; however, this Core Course from Physics Bachelor cannot be used to compensate for the mandatory Core Course in Experimental or Theoretical Physics. For the category assignment keep the choice "no category" and take contact with the Study Administration ( ) after having received the credits.)
  • High-Energy Physics (Joint Master with IP Paris)
  • Doctoral Department of Mathematics (More Information at: The list of courses (together with the allocated credit points) eligible for doctoral students is published each semester in the newsletter of the ZGSM. WARNING: Do not mistake ECTS credits for credit points for doctoral studies!)