Physics

Doctoral studies organised in collaboration with the University of Southern Denmark.

The Physics PhD programme is designed for individuals seeking to explore the fundamental laws of nature and contribute to cutting-edge scientific discoveries. The programme provides in-depth theoretical knowledge and practical skills in condensed matter, radiation–matter interaction and optical spectroscopy.

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Values of the Science Field

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Relevance

Students work with advanced technologies and methods. They conduct research focused on the practical applications of biosensors, plasmonics, renewable energy and other high-tech fields. This contributes to scientific progress and the impact of innovations on industry and society.

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Opportunities

KTU’s doctoral programme in Physics offers collaboration with academic and non-academic partners, as well as access to state-of-the-art research equipment. Graduates gain the skills to conduct independent research and develop solutions that drive technological progress. The programme opens up a range of career opportunities, from academia to leadership roles in industry.

Female PhD student in laboratory attire conducting precise experimental research with microscope and specialized equipment in KTU laboratory – practical doctoral studies competencies and career prospects at Kaunas University of Technology.

Benefits

These studies offer the opportunity to pursue a double degree with the University of Bologna and earn the Doctor Europaeus Certificate through the PCAM network. Funding is also available for skills development in scientific communication, project management and research ethics. Doctoral students have an opportunity to engage in paid project work, teaching experience and participation in industry collaborations.

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Funding

A competitive monthly scholarship is offered, along with support for research and attendance at international conferences. Opportunities include up to one year of Erasmus+ research abroad and funding for international events. Additional scholarships are awarded for high academic performance and scientific activity.

Research Topics

Topic title	Possible scientific supervisors	Source of funding

Admission Requirements and Study Modules in the Field of Science

Cycle – third cycle

Form, duration – full-time studies (4 yr.)

Language – Lithuanian, English

Degree awarded – Doctor of Science

Study Modules

Main modules

Module name	Credits	Method of organisation

Elective Chapters of Condensed Matter Physics	9	On-campus learning
Radiation Interaction with Matter	9	On-campus learning

Alternative modules

Module name	Credits	Method of organisation

Determined Chaos Theory	6	On-campus learning
Physical Processes in Radiation and Vacuum Technologies	6	On-campus learning
Surface Physics and Chemistry	9	On-campus learning

Elective modules

Module name	Credits	Method of organisation

Emission Phenomena in Surface Analysis Methods	9	On-campus learning
Materials for Organic Optoelectronics	6	On-campus learning
Mathematical Basics for Engineering Experiment Theory	6	On-campus learning

Core skills modules

Module name	Credits	Method of organisation

Academic and Technical Research Writing	1	Blended learning
Design Thinking in Research	2	On-campus learning
Digital Support and Tools for Research Writing and Publication	2	Blended learning
Research Data Management	1	On-campus learning
Research Ethics	1	On-campus learning
Research Project Grant Management	2	Blended learning
Science Communication for the Public	1	Distance learning
Systematic Literature Review	1	Blended learning

Good to know

Main modules – provide essential knowledge in the field.
Alternative modules – allow deeper focus on alternative topics within the field.
Elective modules – help to individualize studies according to personal needs.
Core skills modules – develop general competences.

Main modules – provide essential knowledge in the field.
Alternative modules – allow deeper focus on alternative topics within the field.
Elective modules – help to individualize studies according to personal needs.
Core skills modules – develop general competences.

Main modules – provide essential knowledge in the field.
Alternative modules – allow deeper focus on alternative topics within the field.
Elective modules – help to individualize studies according to personal needs.
Core skills modules – develop general competences.

Main modules – provide essential knowledge in the field.
Alternative modules – allow deeper focus on alternative topics within the field.
Elective modules – help to individualize studies according to personal needs.
Core skills modules – develop general competences.

Admission requirements and minimum competition scores

Persons with a Master's Degree or equivalent degree of higher education may participate in an open competition for admission to doctoral studies.

Applicants to the doctoral field of science are accepted by competition according to the competition score.

Minimum competition score 7.0.

Selection criteria and their weighted coefficients

	0,35	weighted grade point average of the diploma supplement ⁱ
	0,3	research experience
	0,35	motivation interview

Additional admission requirements

Diploma and diploma supplement of the bachelor’s qualification degree.

Research proposal on the selected topic.

admission requirements dates and deadlines for admission all science (art) fields

Testimonials

A young man with short dark hair, wearing glasses and a beard, dressed in a red zip-up fleece, standing with his arms crossed, calm and neutral expression, photographed against a neutral background.

The most interesting part of doctoral studies is when experiments confirm hypotheses. KTU has a lot of high-tech equipment that doctoral students can easily access, so they can easily examine samples using SEM and AFM or grow thin film layers. Numerous projects provide experience of working in international teams.

Gvidas Klyvis

PhD student

FAQ

What additional benefits will I receive while studying in the science field of Physics?

KTU PhD students in Physics have the opportunity to pursue a double degree with the University of Bologna (Italy) and to obtain a European Doctorate certificate by participating in the international Physics and Chemistry of Advanced Materials (PCAM) network.

Is the motivation interview mandatory when applying?

Yes, all applicants to KTU doctoral studies must participate in a motivation interview. During the interview, the candidate’s motivation and preparedness for doctoral studies are discussed. English language proficiency is also assessed.