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The IMRS curriculum comprises intensive course modules in key areas relevant to time dependent phenomena. Students are also exposed to data analysis methods, coherent lensless imaging and phasing methods for image recontruction, as well as the machine physics behind the new generation of electron and x-ray sources.
A core curriculum of the IMPRS has been developed for the first year of PhD studies with the view to provide students with an appropriate amount of training throughout the 3 years of their PhD studies. Research remains at the heart of PhD studies and the course load pays tribute to this.
All courses are taught in English.
Curriculum elements
Core courses
Core courses are offered in year 1. They are designed to provide all IMPRS students with a common foundation in the fields of ultrafast imaging and structural dynamics. There are 4 core courses in total which are mandatory for all IMPRS students.
IUI-1: Probing with X-rays and Electrons: Scattering, Spectroscopy and Coherent Imaging
ISD-1: Basics of Ultrafast Spectroscopy: Molecular to Solid State Systems
IUI-2: Image Refinement and Elements of Quantum Tomography
ISD-2: Time Dependent Theoretical Methods for Studying Structural Dynamics>
Focus courses
Focus or advanced courses will be offered in the 2nd and 3rd year. These courses cover specialist topics and will be taught by IMPRS colleagues as well as international guest speakers. They are offered as intensive block courses.
Methods, academic and soft skills training courses
These courses are offered in all years of study. Courses will normally be organised as half day (1 credit) or day courses (2 credits) and will be provided by internal as well as external providers.
IMPRS PhD Seminar
The PhD Seminar is a weekly 1h seminar during which students present on their own research projects, latest developments or progress or particular aspects. The seminar is mandatory for all IMPRS students and is an important forum of scientific exchange within the IMPRS. The sessions are open to supervisors and IMPRS faculty members.
Electives
Electives are courses which students can choose based on their training needs and interests. IMPRS students are asked to complete a certain amount of credits in this areaof over the 3 years of their PhD studies. Electives can be chosen from the offer of focus courses, methods and academic skills courses, lectures/seminars offered at the University of Hamburg or participation in a summer school.
Other course/training offers
Modules/ Lectures at the University of Hamburg
IMPRS students may choose modules from the Master curriculum of the Physics or Chemistry departments at the University of Hamburg as part of their Electives.
It is also possible to choose from the offer of general academic skills or other skills training courses offered through the Career Center if they are relevant to the PhD Studies.
In each of the above options an appropriate amount of IMPRS credits per course/workshop will be determined. Students must contact the IMPRS Office prior to the start of the course/module.
Seminars and Colloquia within CFEL and ZOQ
The Center for Free-Electron Laser Science (CFEL) and the Zentrum für Optische Quantentechnologien (ZOQ) host a series of national and international guest speakers throughout the year who present on specific topics and new research.
Attendance is optional, no IMPRS credits will be awarded.
