Computational Materials Science, Master's Programme (Two-Year)

The programme features a mix of content in materials science and computation, and includes both foundational courses and those covering advanced applications. The latter includes scientific programming and implementation of various models with Python and Matlab, electronic and atomistic modeling with professional tools like QuantumEspresso and LAMMPS, and component- and micro-scale finite element modelling using professional engineering packages. Other courses provide you with surveys of important concepts and applications in modern materials science, as well as an introduction to the advanced X-ray and neutron techniques used for materials research at the state-of-the-art facilities MAX IV and ESS, located in nearby Lund. The 2-year programme concludes with a 30-credit thesis on a topic of interest to the student.

The development, reliable production and application of high-performance materials is key to competition for companies operating in many sectors, from energy and transportation to consumer electronics and food packaging. Rapidly expanding computer power and new algorithms mean that companies can increasingly replace relatively slow and expensive experimental materials development with computer simulations. This allows companies to speed up their R&D, reduce its cost and improve product reliability. Companies need engineers with skills in both computational methods and materials science. Our program develops these skills and teaches you how to connect them to solve real materials problems.

Malmö University has close connections with a number of Swedish companies. Students interested in moving directly to industry are encouraged to carry out thesis projects in collaboration with one of these companies, or to seek out new opportunities in line with their interests at others. In this way, they will expand their professional networks and gain experience working in the private sector environment while demonstrating and further developing their technical skills.

New materials promise to transform tomorrow’s technology. However, to enable the leap from the laboratory to the marketplace, a robust understanding of these materials’ properties and performance is required. Labs around the world labs are intensively engaged in advanced materials research. Among other things, this research aims to develop the high-performance structural materials that might facilitate expanded space travel or faster and more climate-friendly transportation. Improved battery and solar materials could help us shift toward green energy. Better electronic materials may lead to more powerful, efficient, and secure computer systems, etc. The programme provides the technical skills and materials science foundation to contribute to this research, as well as the scientific and communication skills required for entry to a doctoral program, including Malmö University’s PhD in Applied Physics.

The programme courses are taught by Malmö University researchers. They are engaged in a variety of exciting projects in which master's students have the opportunity to participate. Malmö University is also located at the centre of an extensive and vibrant research community, with large universities in nearby Copenhagen, Lyngby and Lund, as well as the state-of-the-art X-ray facilities MAX IV and the ESS. Guest lectures are held regularly, as are visits to the research facilities. Thesis projects are available with Malmö University researchers or with researchers at any of the neighbouring institutions.