The curriculum provides advanced experimental and methodological training in the study and control of matter at the nanoscale and in quantum systems. It combines solid theoretical foundations with extensive hands-on laboratory experience, preparing students to design, perform, and interpret experiments at the forefront of nanoscience and quantum technologies. The program bridges fundamental physics and emerging applications, equipping students with the skills required in both academic research and high-tech innovation environments.

A modern experimental approach to nanophysics

Four mandatory courses establish a solid grounding in quantum physics and solid-state physics, complemented by extensive laboratory work and experimental projects. Students are trained to design and run experiments, manage state-of the-art instrumentation, and extract essential physical information from raw experimental data. Emphasis is placed on developing critical experimental judgment, enabling students to discern fundamental physical laws and phenomena while addressing real-world measurement challenges.

The curriculum introduces modern experimental techniques in optics, spectroscopy, microscopy nanofabrication, and low-temperature measurements. Through direct experience with advanced instrumentation, students acquire a deep un-derstanding of structure–property relationships in nanostructured materials, low-dimensional systems, and quantum devices, as well as the ability to devise and characterize novel experimental platforms.

Two complementary specialization tracks

The broad range of subjects and the flexible rules for elective choices support two main specialization tracks, while allowing students to tailor an interdisciplinary experimental profile.

The Nanoscience and Nanodevices track focuses on the experimental physics of nanostructures and functional materials. Students investigate the growth, fabrication, and structural, optical, and spectroscopic characterization of nanosystems such as quantum dots, nanowires, thin films, and two-dimensional materials. Particular attention is devoted to charge, spin, and energy transport phenomena at the nanoscale, with applications ranging from nanoelectronics and photonics to materials for energy and sensing technologies.

The Quantum Technologies track addresses the rapidly evolving field of quantum devices and information- related tech-nologies. Students learn to control, manipulate, and detect quantum states in solid-state, photonic, and hybrid platforms. Courses cover experimental aspects of spin, charge, and superconducting qubits, quantum optics, quantum sensing, and measurement protocols. Data analysis and experiment-driven approaches to quantum control are integrated, providing a strong background for research and technology transfer in quantum science.

Opportunities and perspectives

The final thesis project is carried out in state-of-the-art experimental research laboratories, often in collaboration with national and international facilities such as large-scale synchrotron radiation research infrastructures.

Graduates are well prepared to pursue international doctoral programs in physics, nanoscience, and quantum engineering, as well as to enter the job market in research-driven and high-technology industrial sectors. Their strong experimental background, combined with expertise in advanced instrumentation and data analysis, enables them to operate effectively at the interface between fundamental research and technological innovation.