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Today's research is inherently interdisciplinary, bridging science and technology while transcending conventional subject boundaries. Physics graduates are highly sought after in diverse scientific and engineering fields, as their training provides valuable perspectives for various research pursuits.
Per Academics Analytics, Rice University's Applied Physics Graduate Program (APP) ranks among the top 10 U.S. applied physics programs by Scholarly Research Index, alongside prestigious institutions like Caltech and Stanford. Operating within the Smalley-Curl Institute under the Office of Research and jointly administered by the School of Natural Sciences and School of Engineering, Rice's APP program stands out. Building on Rice Quantum Institute's 1970s legacy of interdisciplinary collaboration, it provides cross-disciplinary training for students applying core physics concepts to contemporary scientific and engineering challenges.
APP students develop strong physics foundations through demanding coursework covering quantum mechanics, solid-state physics, electrodynamics, and statistical mechanics. They then apply this knowledge to tackle advanced applied research. Current APP research spans photonics and plasmonics, nanomaterials and nanodevices, quantum and ultracold matter, neuroengineering and biotechnology, as well as theoretical and computational studies.