Astro- & Particle Physics

Astro- and particle physics aim at an understanding of physics at the largest and smallest scales. In this branch of the Master’s programme we address the physics of the cosmos and its constituents, ranging from (exo-)planets, stars, the interstellar medium, galaxies  to the large-scale structure. Extreme states of matter in the universe are considered, including the most extreme matter densities, magnetic-field strengths or energies. Students are provided with a thorough background on astrophysics, particle physics and high energy physics processes pertaining to both of these fields. Current research topics include galactic and extragalactic astrophysics, – with a focus on the physics of galaxies, stellar atmospheres, stellar structure and evolution –, high energy and astroparticle physics, and experimental particle physics.  This branch provides students with knowledge on experimental, observational and theoretical methods relating to sub-atomic and astrophysical processes of relevance for an academic or professional career inside or outside physics.

Here we provide an incomplete list of lectures that we intend to offer regularly in specialization Astro- & Particle Physics in the future and a suggestion how to fill the associated modules. Lectures and topics can and are intended to evolve with time depending on promising research directions, academic staff, and interest of the Master students.

Those elective modules that are required for the specialization Astro- and Particle Physics are highlighted in bold.

First and second semester/winter and summer

• Compulsory module: Modern Physics (5 ECTS) – all physics master students
• Elective module 1: Advanced Laboratory Class (10 ECTS)
  • Astrophysics: Advanced Lab Course A+B: Telescope Lab Course (10 ECTS)
  • Astroparticle and Particle Physics: Advanced Lab Course A (5 ECTS), Advanced Lab Course B (5 ECTS), Lab Course Computational Physics (5 ECTS) 

• Elective Module 16: Astrophysics and Particle Physics (10 ECTS)
  • Astrophysics 2: Observational Techniques (5 ECTS)
  • Astrophysics 4: Stellar Structure and Evolution (5 ECTS)
  • Astroparticle Physics I (5 ECTS)
  • Relativity (5 ECTS)
  • Numerical Mathematics (5 ECTS)

• Elective Module 17: Astrophysics and Particle Physics (10 ECTS)
  • Astrophysics 3: Extragalactic Astrophysics  (5 ECTS)
  • Astrophysics 5: Physics of the Interstellar Medium (5 ECTS)
  • Astroparticle Physics II (5 ECTS)
  • Advanced Particle Physics (5 ECTS)
  • Astroparticle Physics on the Computer (5 ECTS)

During 1st to 3^rd semester: suggested topics (in total 30 ECTS) from: 

• Elective module: Specialisation A
• Elective module: Specialisation B
• Elective module: Theoretical Specialisation
• Elective module: Interdisciplinary Skills
• Stellar Atmospheres & Stellar Winds
• Asteroseismology
• Variable Stars
• Cosmic Nucleosynthesis
• The Cosmic Distance Scale
• Observational Cosmology
• Theoretical Astrophysics
• Scientific Writing
• Gamma-ray Astronomy
• Practice Course in Relativity
• Theoretical Astrophysics
• Fundamentals of Cosmology
• Astroparticle Physics III
• Particle Detection Techniques
• Relativistic Electrodynamics & Radiation
• Scientific Writing

Third semester/winter

It is recommended to discuss possible thesis projects with potential advisors 4-12 weeks before the semester starts. Potential thesis advisors are all research group leaders at the Institute of Astro- and Particle Physics, see the webpage for further information and contact details: https://www.uibk.ac.at/astro/

• Compulsary module: Critical Research Analysis (22.5 ECTS)
• HINT: The Research Study is the preparatory phase for your master thesis in consultation with your thesis supervisor.
  • 1a: Research Study (12.5 ECTS)
  • 1b: Research Seminar: Astrophysical Seminar (5 ECTS)
  • 1c: Research Analysis: Statistics & Data Analysis (5ECTS)

• Compulsary module: Preparation of the Master’s Thesis (2.5 ECTS)
• Elective modules: Specialization A, Specilization B, Theortical Specialization, Interdisciplinary Skills

Fourth semester/summer

• Compulsary module: Master thesis (27.5 ECTS)
• Compulsary module: Defence of the master’s thesis (2.5 ECTS)

We further recommend to participate in the research seminar of your group.