A PhD is a fundamental step in the training of a researcher, with research work at its core. For doctoral students, this takes place primarily within a research group, where they learn the approach, the techniques, as well as the use of advanced instrumentation required for cutting-edge scientific research. 

The Physics Department currently has 62 faculty members, conducting theoretical, computational and experimental research in a vast range of disciplines: field theory, statistical and quantum mechanics; fundamental nuclear and particle physics; astrophysics and cosmology; condensed matter and atomic physics; quantum science and technologies; medical physics and imaging. In the last 5 years, the Physics Department secured around 7 M€ through competitive national and international funding schemes. Thanks to its high-quality research, it was recognized by MUR among the 8 Departments of Excellence 2023-2027 in Physical Sciences in Italy, receiving 7 M€ for recruitments and infrastructures. 

Beyond the Physics Department, the “Sistema Trieste” includes ICTP, SISSA, Elettra Sincrotrone, the local sections of INFN and INAF, CNR-IOM and CNR-INO. This rich network fosters an exceptionally dynamic and diverse community in which members of the Department often take leading roles, with PhD students naturally becoming involved. Students have also access to leading laboratories in which our research groups are engaged with coordination responsibilities: CERN, NASA, ESO, ICSC and NQSTI.