Photonics and Quantum Materials

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PHOTONICS
& QUANTUM
MATERIALS

Master of Science
in Applied Mathematics and Physics

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about the program

The Skoltech Photonics and Quantum Materials program curriculum is based on an extensive educational program in modern solid-state physics, quantum technologies, and photonics, providing a broad education in the field, along with innovation and commercialization courses that teach students to leverage their newfound knowledge. In addition to foundational courses, students can choose from a wide range of optional courses to tailor their experience to their specific interests. All students are expected to carry out an experimental or theoretical project within Skoltech’s research groups and laboratories, typically leading to publication in peer-reviewed international journals. Graduates commonly continue their career in academia or pursue R&D positions in research-intensive companies.

Mode, duration
2 years (full-time)
Language
English
Fees
Full tuition coverage
Application
The application period for Skoltech programs for 2025 is now open
Benefits
Monthly scholarship (up to 55.000 rub/month), relocation & accommodation, private medical insurance (in accordance with Skoltech policies)
Upcoming deadline
The first wave deadline is March 10

available tracks

All students are expected to choose between the two following tracks, shaping their education experience

Applied Photonics

The track is aimed at studying the modern aspects of optics and photonics, such as laser physics, optical communications, nano-optics, and biophotonics.
Quantum Technology

The track focuses on key aspects of quantum technologies and materials, including superconducting quantum technologies, nanotechnology, and quantum spectroscopy.

joint programs

Various network and collaborative programs are available to the students of the program

The possibility of obtaining a double degree with the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology. Documents for enrolling in this program are submitted both at MIPT and at Skoltech.
The opportunity to carry out a joint research project with IPG Photonics, which allows students to work on applied projects under the guidance of both industry and academia representatives. As a rule, a research project is associated with high-power fiber lasers and their various applications.

the key features of the Photonics and Quantum Materials MSc are

01

broad education program in contemporary photonics and condensed matter physics

02

access to state-of-the art research laboratories

03

'project-driven education', with students expected to carry out innovative research and to publish in renowned journals

04

innovation-driven program, with strong support for student-led startups

05

international and Russian faculty with strong international ties, offering opportunities

06

optional industrial track providing training in applied optical engineering for a more industry-oriented career

The 2-year program comprises of a number of courses in key areas of photonics and condensed matter physics, which the student can tune to its specific individual needs, in addition to other learning opportunities such as academic English courses. Access to entrepeneurship and innovation activities is provided to all students, along with supporting schemes for student-led startups (seed funding, mentoring from experts in the field, help in starting a company). All students are expected to find a research supervisor, with whom they will devise and carry out an experimental project in Skoltech's state-of-the-art laboratories. A 2 month industrial immersion period will also offer students the opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture and research of an industrial partner.

Check out the course catalog of the Photonics and Quantum Materials program here (select the Photonics and Quantum Materials option on the page).

Curriculum (2023 year of admission)

master thesis options

Research
Perform world class science and application
Start-up as a thesis
Transform your idea into a start-up
2+3 PhD
Seamless continuation into PhD Program

research

independent research work at world-class laboratories as a key component of study

Optical computing and neuromorphic systems
Photonic integrated circuits
Photonics technologies for metrology
Plasmonic structures and metamaterials
Materials and nanostructures for optoelectronics and sensorics
Biophotonics

labs

Students of the Photonics & Quantum Materials have access to state-of-the-art research facilities equipped with the latest technologies.

future career

our graduates shape their own futures by choosing from a variety of career opportunities in industry, science and business

industry

successful career in R&D intensive companies within Russia and abroad, for instance in Tinkoff, Megafon, IPG Photonics, A* Singapore

science

PhD, either at Skoltech or at other leading academic institutions such as the Weizmann Institute of Science, MIPT, EPFL, MSU, University of Berlin, Cambridge University, etc.

startup

launching a startup based on student research and ideas, or to joining the teams of existing startups, such as the Skolkovo residents PICsTech, NovaPrint 3D, and TetraQuant

Skoltech gives you an opportunity to create your own academic path by choosing different courses, improve your English skills by studying in a multicultural environment, get international academic experience by exchange programs with the top universities around the world. During the two-years MSc program in Photonics at Skoltech I had an exchange semester in Canada and an expedition to Lake Baikal. Also, I had the opportunity to learn from intelligent qualified professors from the top universities, and also study with outstanding fellows always driven by an innovative spirit. I deeply value being a Skoltech alumni. It certainly contributed greatly to my further career and achievements in life.

Elena Gromova

BSc, Tomsk Polytechnic University → MSc, Skoltech → Linde Engineering

Here people become magicians. On the nanoscale it is impossible to rely on intuition only. Imagination with problem-solving is what attracts me to photonics. Production principles of integrated devices, imaging instruments for the human body, modeling nanoscale systems provoke your creativity if you are prepared enough. After studying here, graduates will have an opportunity to work as a researcher in optic communication, nanodevice production companies or launch a deep-tech startup. The latter is a challenge, but very demanded in the industry.

Semyon Fast

BSc, Novosibirsk State University → MSc, Skoltech → Bazar (bazarapp.ru)

In the Photonics MSc program I have discovered so many possibilities of prospective revolutions in this area of science that are occurring. This forms the building blocks for the next-generation technologies that will change the world as we know. In this program, you are going to learn the physics of light and its interaction with the matter you can even go far to its different applications in different sectors from biomedical to IT.

Aly Elakshar

BSc, Menofia University → MSc, Skoltech

During my masters, I had the privilege to collaborate with two supervisors, both of which are famous not only in Russia but also on the international level. I think their willingness to contribute to my training forms the basis of my ongoing research. Their international experience helped me to understand just how broad modern opportunities are. I think Skoltech is unique in this regard of inviting outstanding researchers from around the world. I also want to admit that my English significantly improved during my studies, because all the classes were taught in English.

Pavel Dolgirev

BSc, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology → MSc, Skoltech → PhD, Harvard University

Roman Barmin

PQM MSc student, class of 2021, now doing a PhD in Aachen, Germany

Daniil Nozdriukhin

PQM MSc student, class of 2020, now doing a PhD at ETH Zurich, Switzerland

Ivan Gnusov

PQM MSc student, class of 2020, now doing a PhD at Skoltech

Stanislav Perevoschikov

PQM MSc student, class of 2020, now doing a PhD at Skoltech

Diana Galiakhmetova

PQM MSc student, class of 2020, now doing a PhD in Aston University, United Kingdom

Iliya Fradkin

PQM MSc student, class of 2019, now doing a PhD at Skoltech

Pavel Kokhanchik

PQM MSc student, class of 2021, now doing a PhD at Université Clermont Auvergne, France

Daria Satco

PQM MSc student, class of 2019, now Data Science Team Lead at Megafon Big Data, ex-McKinsey

Nikita Kaydanov

PQM MSc student, class of 2020, now doing a PhD at EMBL, Heidelberg, Germany

Aram Mkrtchyan

PQM MSc student, class of 2019, PhD and now researcher at Skoltech

partners

Skoltech has strongly established connections with leading companies in the industry and academia

MIPT
ISSP RAS
ITMO
NSU
IREE
MSU
MEPhI
ISP
Lebedev PI
Prokhorov GPI
ITEP
Landau ITP
Ioffe PTI
IAP
Institute of Spectroscopy of the Russian Academy of Sciences (ISAN)

MIT
University of Cambridge
Aalto University
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
UA
UNC
NYU
University of Southampton
UNT
UTD
Columbia University
Stony Brook University
University of California
University of Chicago
University of Illinois at Chicago
University of Massachusetts
University of Manchester
Darmstadt Technical University

IPG Photonics
IBM
Russian Space Systems
RTI
OKB Planeta
T8
Luxtaltek
Terasense

admissions

applications for competitive selection can be submitted online. Most of the selection process is conducted online, and only the final stage of the selection is conducted offline at the Skoltech campus

1

registration

Choose the language of the selection process. If you select the Russian path and successfully pass the selection, you will be required to attend a one-month English bootcamp with a covered tuition fee before your program begins. Note that you can only choose a Russian path if your English proficiency level is at least B1 according to CEFR. If you choose the English path, you must either pass an English exam on-site or present valid proof of English proficiency. You will also earn additional points for choosing an English path.

Prepare your portfolio:

CV
Motivation letter
2 letters of recommendation
Diploma or transcript from the university
Certificates and awards

2

submit your application

Upload your materials into the SIA application system (apply.skoltech.ru)

Note: If you are applying for the joint track with MIPT, you should submit your application to both MIPT and Skoltechh, for more information contact pk.magistr@mipt.ru

3

online testing

Every candidate must take an online subject test. You will be notified via email about the specific date and time of your test.

Exam sample
Exam sample (NEW)

4

final stage

The final selection will take place in Moscow. You will need to pass an in-person interview and an entrepreneurship challenge. Please note that extra written examinations may be required for certain programs during this time, and you will be notified in advance if this applies to you.

5

enrollment

You will be enrolled in Skoltech based on the results of all the competitive selection procedures

entry requirements

knowledge, skills and education background for successful enrollment into the program

knowledge and skills

General Physics (mechanics, electro-magnetism, thermodynamics), Analysis, Linear algebra, Basic probability, Basic quantum mechanics, Programming.

education

Bachelor's degree in material science, physics or engineering (optical, electric or mechanical).

english language

If your education has not been conducted in English, you will be expected to demonstrate evidence of an adequate level of English proficiency or attend a one-month English bootcamp in August.

faculty

enjoy courses and supervision by world-renowned scientists and engineers

Professor of the Practice

Alexander Korotkevich

application

The application period for Skoltech master's programs is now open. The first wave deadline is March 10. To apply, press the button below.

Apply

Contact us

e-mail: admissions@skoltech.ru
phone: +7 (495) 280-1481_ext.3387

address: 30с1 Bolshoi boulevard,
Skolkovo, 121205, Russian Federation
Room E-R3-2026

We are more than happy to meet visitors Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 18:00. Please arrange a visit 48 hours in advance by contacting admissions@skoltech.ru