Physics of Extremes: From the Frontiers of Knowledge to Societal Applications
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The program focuses on research into the infinitely small (elementary particles and their interactions), quantum matter on the infinitely large scale, and the origins of the universe, stars, and planets. This research at the frontiers of knowledge holds promise for applications in numerous fields with significant societal implications, such as the digital transition and the energy transition. The advancement of this research relies on mastery of key cross-disciplinary tools for the field, including cutting-edge instrumentation, simulation, and the processing of big data.
Pushing the boundaries of knowledge requires the development of ExTreM experimental facilities: extremely low temperatures, strong magnetic fields, experiments conducted in close proximity to nuclear reactors, high-performance computing, large particle accelerators, and observatories in polar regions, high-altitude mountain areas, or in space. These developments enable high-impact technical advances that address numerous societal challenges, such as energy and new properties of matter.
The goal of this project is to place the dynamism and appeal of this research (the significant impact of the laboratories, the presence of major instruments on site) at the heart of our educational programs in order to elevate them to the top national level and give them high visibility internationally. In addition, extensive work in general physics will help foster interdisciplinary relationships.
The program’s goal is to promote education and research by attracting the best students (both nationally and internationally) and by placing research at the heart of our academic offerings. We aim to provide a coherent and attractive educational program that builds on Grenoble’s established strengths and fosters a seamless transition from the master’s to the doctoral level.
This program is primarily based on three tracks within the master's degree: "Astrophysics," "Cosmology, Astroparticle Physics, and Subatomic Physics," and "Quantum Matter," "Turbulence," "Materials and Energy," and "Nuclear Energy."
What sets these master’s programs apart is that they allow students to work on relevant instrumentation and equipment—something Grenoble is uniquely positioned to offer, particularly given the presence of “major instruments” such as IRAM, CERN, ESRF, ILL, EMFL, as well as Grenoble’s extensive capabilities in space instrumentation (CSUG) and cutting-edge, highly technical experiments (LNCMI, Institut Néel). The ExTreM program will help strengthen ties between the university and the partner institutions responsible for these instruments.
The ExTreM program will offer students:
Research-intensive programs, particularly for international students, that allow students to spend a significant portion of their time at a dedicated research institute;
The opportunity to participate, during the two years of the master’s program, in major research projects hosted by laboratories, large-scale research facilities, or CESUG;
Themed weeks, modeled after summer school, organized in collaboration with the relevant Labex;
The opportunity to participate in European schools such as ERCA, JUAS, and ESIPAP;
Dedicated funding.
Specific activities targeting undergraduate students
The ExTreM program will offer a wide range of educational activities to undergraduate students, thereby helping to create a pool of students interested in research-based training at the graduate level: organizing visits to scientific sites (major instruments, laboratories), lecture series, funding excellence-based internships, and presentations of the ExTreM program by master’s and doctoral students, structured around short presentations and poster sessions.
Courses Specific to a Thematic Program
Experimental Project (M1, 6 ECTS): Construction of a scientific apparatus. Tour of large-scale facilities.
Scientific Project (M2, 6 ECTS): Students conduct an experimental project using one of the major instrumental facilities
How to Apply
To apply for this program, you must first be admitted to a master's program in one of the fields listed below:
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