Modern Applications of Physics: From Research to Industry

Code

PHYS4025

School

Physics and Astronomy

Level

4

Credits

20

Semesters

Spring UK

Summary

This module aims to help the students gain insights into how physics is applied in a range of academic and industrial environments including research to advance knowledge, product development and problem solving.
The taught element of this module will consist of lectures given by staff and invited speakers from industry. Coursework will consist of problem sheets based upon the staff lectures, and a written report describing the physics, history and practical factors involved in the development of a piece of modern technology. There will be a project in which you will work in teams of 3 or 4 to address a specific problem and to propose a solution. The assessment of the project will take the form of a group presentation and individual briefing documents.


 

Target Students

Students in the 4th year of MSci Physics, Mathematical Physics, CMP and Natural Sciences programmes.

Classes

The module will consist of lectures, reports, and presentation of product concept or problem solution to “board”. Lectures will be given by staff and by experts from the UK’s industries. It is also planned to organise a visit to Diamond Lightsource.

Assessment

• 30% Problem sheet: Problem Set based on lectured material
• 70% Project: 2500 word report on the development of a piece of modern technology

Assessed by end of spring semester

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

Knowledge and Understanding 
On successful completion of the course the students will: 
have gained an awareness of the range of research activities within the School of Physics and Astronomy in Nottingham, and of the type of modern/future technologies that are likely to come out of such research. 
have gained knowledge of some of the modern techniques used in physics research. 
have gained knowledge of how physics is applied in modern interdisciplinary research. 
understand some of the roles physicists play within industry and how they apply physics to design products and to solve problems. 
 

Intellectual Skills 
On successful completion of the module, students will have demonstrated their ability to: 
apply physics concepts to real world applications. 
understand the relevance of physics to everyday life. 

Professional/Practical Skills 
On successful completion of the module, students will have demonstrated their ability to: 
apply physics concepts to solve real-world technological problems. 
communicate ideas and difficult concepts effectively. 
be aware of the career opportunities that are available. 
 

Transferable/Key Skills 
On successful completion of the module, students will have demonstrated their ability to: 
develop appropriate strategies for study, including the use of library, human, and electronic sources of information. 
work successfully both independently and as a member of a small team. 
meet deadlines and manage their time effectively. 
make effective use of general IT tools for acquiring, processing, and presenting information. 
communicate effectively in writing, in particular to report critically on the results of an investigation. 
prepare and deliver presentations at a variety of levels and on advanced topics. 
manage effectively their time over a range of activities including collaborative working.

Conveners

• Dr Neil Kemp