
NEW MASTER · PENDING OFFICIAL APPROVAL
MASTER IN CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS AND QUANTUM MATERIALS
A new one-year master of the University of the Basque Country (EHU), the Materials Physics Center (CFM), the Donostia International Physics Center (DIPC) and CIC nanoGUNE in Donostia / San Sebastián
The interaction between electrons and ions gives rise to complex and emerging phenomena, such as magnetism and superconductivity, and defines, for instance, the optical and transport properties of materials. The technologies that define modern society, from computers and smartphones to medical imaging devices and advanced sensors, are deeply rooted in fundamental discoveries made in condensed matter physics. Demonstrating its immense impact, this field accounts for more Nobel Prizes in Physics than any other domain.
Today, the field stands at the center of a new scientific and technological revolution driven by quantum materials, from topological to two-dimensional systems, which are reshaping the future of technology. The Master in Condensed Matter Physics and Quantum Materials provides students with the advanced knowledge and practical skills needed to face the most important challenges in the field from an academic point of view and to be part of the development of the materials that will shape the next generation of technological innovations.
Students joining this program will become part of one of the most dynamic and internationally recognized scientific hubs for condensed matter physics in Europe. These institutions bring together world-leading researchers, cutting-edge facilities, and a vibrant international scientific community, offering students daily exposure to frontier research and an exceptional environment for academic and professional growth.
EXPERIMENT, THEORY AND COMPUTATION
A distinctive feature of the program is its balanced training across experimental, theoretical and computational approaches, with the possibility of focusing on one of them.

Experimental
Laboratory work and real lab experience at CFM, DIPC or nanoGUNE.

Theoretical
Theoretical modelling of quantum materials, from many-body physics to topology.

Computational
Advanced computational methods, from density functional theory to artificial intelligence.
WHY STUDY THIS MASTER?
✔ To acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to shape the technologies of tomorrow.
✔ To prepare yourself for an academic career in one of the most important fields in physics.
✔ To join one of Europe’s most dynamic condensed matter physics ecosystems.
✔ To develop a unique combination of experimental, theoretical and computational skills in the field of condensed matter physics.

CURRICULUM
The program covers a whole academic year with 60 ECTS and consists of mandatory courses, elective courses and a Master’s thesis project.
- Fundamentals of Condensed Matter Physics (6 ECTS)
- Experimental Methods in Condensed Matter Physics (6 ECTS)
- Computational Methods in Condensed Matter Physics (6 ECTS)
Five elective courses of 4 ECTS each:
- Hands-On Experimental Condensed Matter Physics
- Classical and Quantum Transport
- Magnetism and Spintronics
- Optical Properties in Materials
- Many-Body Physics
- Modern Theory of the Electronic Structure and Topology
- Advanced Density Functional Theory Methods
- Group Theory in Condensed Matter Physics
- Superconductivity
- Artificial Intelligence Methods in Condensed Matter Physics
- Advanced Theory of Lattice Vibrations
- Quantum Devices and Quantum Computing in Condensed Matter Physics
- Strongly Correlated Physics
The Master’s thesis project is developed under the supervision of leading researchers at the EHU, CFM, DIPC or nanoGUNE.
LECTURERS
Maider Ormaza · Ion Errea · Iñaki Juaristi · Jon Zubeltzu · Antton Babaze · Ivo Souza · Stefan Kurth · Juan Borge · Vitaly Golovach · Marco Gobbi · Sebastián Bergeret · Félix Casanova · Julen Ibañez · Daniel Hernangómez · Adolfo Grushin · Fernando de Juan · Maia G. Vergniory · María Gastiasoro · Pablo Piaggi · Fernando González Zalba
Master’s thesis projects will also be offered by other researchers at the EHU, CFM, DIPC and nanoGUNE.

SPECIFICS
- The program is aimed primarily at graduates in Physics, as well as students from related disciplines such as Chemistry, Mathematics, Materials Science and Engineering, provided they possess a solid background in physics, quantum mechanics and advanced mathematics.
- Students selected for the dual track will be hired at CFM, DIPC or nanoGUNE during their Master’s thesis project.
- All lectures will be in English.
- Lectures will take place at the premises of the CFM.
- Real lab experience at CFM, DIPC or nanoGUNE will be possible in the elective subject Hands-On Experimental Condensed Matter Physics.
ENROLLMENT
Enrollment will open in late spring or early summer 2027.
Interested in pre-registering? Send an email to Ion Errea (ion.errea@ehu.eus) attaching your CV and your academic track record.
Pending official approval. Expected to begin in the 2027/2028 academic year. Updated information: Faculty of Engineering of Gipuzkoa (EHU) – Postgraduate studies.
