Specialization in Molecular Simulation and Photonics
General programme structure
The specialization in Molecular Simulation and Photonics focuses on state-of-the-art computational and photonic research of structure, dynamics and function in atomic, (bio)molecular and multiscale systems. The programme is closely linked to leading international research programmes in the Amsterdam area, allowing the integration of teaching and research in:
- Molecular Photoscience
- Computational Physics and Chemistry
- Theoretical Chemistry
- Biophysics
- Biomedical Physics
- Quantum Atom Optics
Programme outline
Students can start this specialization in Molecular Simulation and Photonics twice per academic year, in September and in February.
The September programme starts with three compulsory courses on common themes within this track: Master Quantum Theory of Molecules and Matter, Lasers and Molecular Photonics and Statistical Theory of Complex Molecular Systems. During the rest of the year advanced courses are offered that are related to the selected study path, either in computational chemistry or molecular photonics. These study paths consist of specialisation courses, which are compulsory for one track and optional for the other.
Students entering the programme in February will start with one or more of the specialisation courses. Importantly, the programme provides ample choice in courses, not requiring knowledge obtained in the obligatory courses given in the first semester.
The interaction between research and teaching forms the basis for a high-level academic programme tailored to individual students' interests. Students design their own programme of study in consultation with the Programme Coordinator and Research Supervisors, and submit it to the examination committee for approval.
Course schedule
| Period | Course | Type |
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| Sep - Oct |
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| Nov - Dec |
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| Jan |
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| Feb - Mar |
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| Apr - May | ||
| June |
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*) 2 courses in year 1, 1 course in year 2
**) scheduled in consultation with lecturer
Research training
A small literature-based project and a large research project form an essential part of the programme. These take a year and are concluded with a thesis and a colloquium. Usually they are conducted within one of the associated research groups:
- Division of Theoretical Chemistry (VU University Amsterdam)
- Computational Chemistry Group (University of Amsterdam, Faculty of Science)
- Division of Physical Chemistry (VU University Amsterdam)
- Molecular Photonics (University of Amsterdam)
- Physics of light and matter (VU University Amsterdam)
- Biomedical- and BioPhysics (VU University Amsterdam)
Degree requirements
A Master of Science in Chemistry is awarded upon successful completion of all the core courses in the curriculum and a written Master's thesis based on an independent research project. This translates into a total of 120 ECTS credits.
Along with the Chemistry track, a Physics track allows an MSc in Physics. Courses from the Physics track can be selected in the Chemistry track and vice versa.
Two entry points
Care has been taken to make it possible for students to enroll and start their studies at two points during the academic year. It is recommended to start the programme in September (the regular start date), but enrolling in February is also possible.
Career prospects
Graduates of this specialization are eligible to apply for PhD positions all around the world. Career options also include scientific positions at various governmental institutions or in industry; for example, in the laboratories of large international corporations, based in the Netherlands, such as Philips, ASML, Shell, DSM and research institutes such as TNO, KNMI or SRON.
Graduates of this programme have experience in analytical thinking providing an excellent foundation for careers in software and computer companies, investment banks, consultancy and even politics. Students with strong writing and communication skills go on to careers at major newspapers, magazines or science-oriented non-profit organisations.
Read more about ongoing research at the department of Theoretical Chemistry and Physical Chemistry.
Contact
If you would like to know more about this specialization, please contact the Master coordinator:
Prof. dr. Luuk Visscher
Phone: +31 (0)20 59 87624
E-mail: msc-molecular-simulation-and-photonics@few.vu.nl
