physics phd uc berkeley

Physics of Climate

The climate physics group @ uc berkeley, get a phd in our group.

Become a leading expert on climate change by joining the Climate Physics Group and getting your PhD from the Department of Earth and Planetary Science (EPS) at the University of California, Berkeley. Or, if you are already a graduate student in the Department of Physics at UC Berkeley, come talk to us about joining our group as a Physics PhD candidate. Our group is interested in fundamental unsolved problems related to global warming, including: how do cloud feedbacks work, why and by how much will severe weather intensify, what is the limit of a human's heat tolerance, how much sea-level rise is the planet committed to, for how long does global warming last, why does the land surface dry out, and what is Earth's climate sensitivity? And we are deeply interested in communicating basic climate science to the public.

If you are more interested in communicating climate science and climate solutions to the public, join the Climate Physics Group and get your PhD from UC Berkeley's School of Education via the Graduate Group in Science and Mathematics Education (SESAME) . Help us figure out how to dramatically increase the American public's acceptance of the basic science, which is almost certainly a prerequisite for any sustained effort to avert climate catastrophe.

The application deadline for EPS is December 1, 2022.

• Click here to learn about applying to EPS
• Click here to learn about applying to SESAME

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Berkeley Berkeley Academic Guide: Academic Guide 2023-24

About the Program

Bachelor of arts (ba).

The Physics major is designed to give the student a broad and thorough understanding of the fundamentals of physics. Therefore, the emphasis is on this general understanding rather than on specialized skills, although some specialized courses are among the options open to the student. Those considering a physics major are urged to consult a departmental adviser early, in order to discuss the content of the major and also the opportunities after graduation. Recent graduates have entered graduate work in a number of scientific fields, and others have gone on to jobs in academic, industrial, and government laboratories.

Declaring the Major

Students may declare a physics major when all of the prerequisites for the major have been completed or their equivalent with a 2.0 grade-point average (GPA) in the prerequisites and a 2.0 GPA in all University courses. For further information regarding the prerequisites, please see the Major Requirements tab on this page.

The department will consider applications to declare a physics major throughout the academic year. Students (continuing and transfer) declaring must furnish a copy of their grade record or past transcripts which include the prerequisite courses or their equivalents. Students must have their records reviewed and have a departmental file prepared by the undergraduate advisors in 368 or 374 Physics North prior to seeing a faculty major adviser for departmental approval of the petition to declare a physics major. Students should be prepared to discuss a tentative schedule of their upper division courses.

Honors Program

Students with an overall grade point average (GPA) of 3.3 or higher in all courses in the major, upper division courses in the major, and all University courses may be admitted to the honors program. A major advisor should be consulted before the student's last year of residence. This program requires completion of the major, at least one semester of PHYSICS H190 , and a senior thesis,  PHYSICS H195A  and  PHYSICS H195B .

Minor Program

The department also offers a minor program in Physics. Students may petition for a minor in Physics from the time that the requirements are complete until the student graduates from the College of Letters & Science. Students who have completed the requirements for the minor will be required to furnish transcripts (official or unofficial) to the undergraduate advisors (in 368 or 374 Physics North) to show their work and GPA in physics and math. After completing a confirmation of minor program petition (available in 368 or 374 Physics North), the students will be directed to a faculty major adviser who will approve the completion of the minor program.

Visit Department Website

Major Requirements

In addition to the University, campus, and college requirements, listed on the College Requirements tab, students must fulfill the below requirements specific to their major program.

General Guidelines

• All courses taken to fulfill the major requirements below must be taken for graded credit, other than courses listed which are offered on a  Pass/No Pass  basis only. Other exceptions to this requirement are noted as applicable.
• No more than two upper division courses may be used to simultaneously fulfill requirements for a student's double major and no more one course may be used to fulfill minor program requirements with the exception of minors offered outside of the College of Letters & Science.
• A minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 must be maintained in both upper and lower division courses used to fulfill the major requirements.

For information regarding residence requirements and unit requirements, please see the College Requirements tab.

Lower Division Requirements

In addition to the requirements below, students who: 1) Have not taken a substantial chemistry course in high school are urged to take a one-year sequence or 2) Unfamiliar with a computer programming language are encouraged to include an introductory course in computer science.

Upper Division

Recommended courses.

Students who are interested in graduate school should consult Physics Undergraduate Advisors for more information on additional recommended courses. 

Minor Requirements

Students who have a strong interest in an area of study outside their major often decide to complete a minor program. These programs have set requirements.

All minors must be declared before the first day of classes in your Expected Graduation Term (EGT). For summer graduates, minors must be declared prior to the first day of Summer Session A. 

All upper-division courses must be taken for a letter grade. 

A minimum of three of the upper-division courses taken to fulfill the minor requirements must be completed at UC Berkeley.

A minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 is required in the upper-division courses to fulfill the minor requirements.

Courses used to fulfill the minor requirements may be applied toward the Seven-Course Breadth requirement, for Letters & Science students.

No more than one upper division course may be used to simultaneously fulfill requirements for a student's major and minor programs.

All minor requirements must be completed prior to the last day of finals during the semester in which the student plans to graduate. If students cannot finish all courses required for the minor by that time, they should see a College of Letters & Science adviser.

All minor requirements must be completed within the unit ceiling. (For further information regarding the unit ceiling, please see the College Requirements tab.)

Requirements

 The following upper division courses will not fulfill minor requirements: PHYSICS 100 , PHYSICS H190 ,  PHYSICS H195A ,  PHYSICS H195B ,  PHYSICS 198 , and  PHYSICS 199 .

College Requirements

Undergraduate students must fulfill the following requirements in addition to those required by their major program.

For detailed lists of courses that fulfill college requirements, please review the  College of Letters & Sciences  page in this Guide. For College advising appointments, please visit the L&S Advising Pages. 

University of California Requirements

Entry level writing.

All students who will enter the University of California as freshmen must demonstrate their command of the English language by fulfilling the Entry Level Writing requirement. Fulfillment of this requirement is also a prerequisite to enrollment in all reading and composition courses at UC Berkeley. 

American History and American Institutions

The American History and Institutions requirements are based on the principle that a US resident graduated from an American university, should have an understanding of the history and governmental institutions of the United States.

Berkeley Campus Requirement

American cultures.

All undergraduate students at Cal need to take and pass this course in order to graduate. The requirement offers an exciting intellectual environment centered on the study of race, ethnicity and culture of the United States. AC courses offer students opportunities to be part of research-led, highly accomplished teaching environments, grappling with the complexity of American Culture.

College of Letters & Science Essential Skills Requirements

Quantitative reasoning.

The Quantitative Reasoning requirement is designed to ensure that students graduate with basic understanding and competency in math, statistics, or computer science. The requirement may be satisfied by exam or by taking an approved course.

Foreign Language

The Foreign Language requirement may be satisfied by demonstrating proficiency in reading comprehension, writing, and conversation in a foreign language equivalent to the second semester college level, either by passing an exam or by completing approved course work.

Reading and Composit ion

In order to provide a solid foundation in reading, writing, and critical thinking the College requires two semesters of lower division work in composition in sequence. Students must complete parts A & B reading and composition courses in sequential order by the end of their fourth semester.

College of Letters & Science 7 Course Breadth Requirements

Breadth requirements.

The undergraduate breadth requirements provide Berkeley students with a rich and varied educational experience outside of their major program. As the foundation of a liberal arts education, breadth courses give students a view into the intellectual life of the University while introducing them to a multitude of perspectives and approaches to research and scholarship. Engaging students in new disciplines and with peers from other majors, the breadth experience strengthens interdisciplinary connections and context that prepares Berkeley graduates to understand and solve the complex issues of their day.

Unit Requirements

120 total units

Of the 120 units, 36 must be upper division units

• Of the 36 upper division units, 6 must be taken in courses offered outside your major department

Residence Requirements

For units to be considered in "residence," you must be registered in courses on the Berkeley campus as a student in the College of Letters & Science. Most students automatically fulfill the residence requirement by attending classes here for four years, or two years for transfer students. In general, there is no need to be concerned about this requirement, unless you go abroad for a semester or year or want to take courses at another institution or through UC Extension during your senior year. In these cases, you should make an appointment to meet an adviser to determine how you can meet the Senior Residence Requirement.

Note: Courses taken through UC Extension do not count toward residence.

Senior Residence Requirement

After you become a senior (with 90 semester units earned toward your BA degree), you must complete at least 24 of the remaining 30 units in residence in at least two semesters. To count as residence, a semester must consist of at least 6 passed units. Intercampus Visitor, EAP, and UC Berkeley-Washington Program (UCDC) units are excluded.

You may use a Berkeley Summer Session to satisfy one semester of the Senior Residence requirement, provided that you successfully complete 6 units of course work in the Summer Session and that you have been enrolled previously in the college.

Modified Senior Residence Requirement

Participants in the UC Education Abroad Program (EAP), Berkeley Summer Abroad, or the UC Berkeley Washington Program (UCDC) may meet a Modified Senior Residence requirement by completing 24 (excluding EAP) of their final 60 semester units in residence. At least 12 of these 24 units must be completed after you have completed 90 units.

Upper Division Residence Requirement

You must complete in residence a minimum of 18 units of upper division courses (excluding UCEAP units), 12 of which must satisfy the requirements for your major.

Student Learning Goals

The goal of the Physics major is to provide students with a broad understanding of the physical principles of the universe, to help them develop critical thinking and quantitative reasoning skills, to empower them to think creatively and critically about scientific problems and experiments, and to provide training for students planning careers in physics and in the physical sciences broadly defined including those whose interests lie in research, K-12 or college teaching, industrial jobs, or other sectors of society.

Physics majors complete a program which includes foundational lower division course work in math and physics and in-depth upper division course work. These topics are traditionally broadly divided into classical and modern physics. Some core topics, such as special relativity, classical optics, and classical thermodynamics, are covered only in lower division courses. Other topics, such as quantum mechanics, classical mechanics, statistical mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, and optics, are covered first at an introductory level in lower division and then at a more advanced level in the upper division courses. Advanced elective courses provide students the opportunity to further their knowledge in specific areas (such as atomic physics, condensed matter physics, optical properties, quantum computing, biophysics, astrophysics, particle physics). A two-semester upper division laboratory course provides additional training in electronic instrumentation, circuits, computer interfacing to experiments, independent project design, and advanced laboratory techniques experiments. This laboratory course also provides the capstone experience to the core courses, bringing the knowledge gained in different courses together and making the connection between theoretical knowledge taught in textbooks/homework problems and the experimental foundations of this knowledge. Activities outside the classroom, such as independent research or study, allow students to further develop their knowledge and understanding.

A student graduating from Berkeley with a major in physics will understand classical and modern physics (as outlined in the course requirements below) and will also acquire the skills to apply principles to new and unfamiliar problems. Their understanding should include the ability to analyze physical problems (often posed as word problems), be able to derive and prove equations that describe the physics of the universe, understand the meaning and limitations of these equations, and have both physical and numerical insight into physical problems (e.g., be able to make order-of-magnitude estimates, analyze physical situations by application of general principles as well as by textbook type calculations). They will also have developed basic laboratory, library, and computational skills, be familiar with important historical experiments and what physics they revealed, and be able to make both written and oral presentations on physics problems posed to them. At graduation, physics majors will have a set of fundamental competencies that are knowledge-based, performance/skills-based, and affective.

Learning Goals for the Major

Graduates will have the following:

• Mastered a broad set of knowledge concerning the fundamentals in the basic areas of physics (quantum mechanics, classical mechanics, statistical mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity and magnetism, optics, and special relativity). This does not refer to knowledge about specific facts, but rather to a working knowledge of fundamental concepts that can then be applied in many different ways to understand or predict what nature does.
• An understanding of the physical principles required to analyze a physical question or topic, including those not previously seen, and both quantitative and qualitative physical insight into these principles in order to understand or predict what happens. This includes understanding what equations and numerical physical constants are needed to describe and analyze fundamental physics problems.
• A set of basic physical constants that enable their ability to make simple numerical estimates of physical properties of the universe and its constituents.
• An understanding of how modern electronic instrumentation works, and how both classical and modern experiments are used to reveal the underlying physical principals of the universe and its constituents.
• An understanding of how to use computers in data acquisition and processing and how to use available software as a tool in data analysis.
• An understanding of modern library search tools used to locate and retrieve scientific information.

Graduates will have the following abilities: 

• Solve problems competently by identifying the essential parts of a problem and formulating a strategy for solving the problem. Estimate the numerical solution to a problem. Apply appropriate techniques to arrive at a solution, test the correctness of the solution, and interpret the results.
• Explain the physics problem and its solution in both words and appropriately specific equations to both experts and non-experts.
• Understand the objective of a physics laboratory experiment, properly carry out the experiments, and appropriately record and analyze the results.
• Use standard laboratory equipment, modern instrumentation, and classical techniques to carry out experiments.
• Know how to design, construct, and complete a science-based independent project (specifically in the area of electronics).
• Know and follow the proper procedures and regulations for safely working in a lab.
• Communicate the concepts and results of their laboratory experiments through effective writing and oral communication skills.

Graduates will be able to do the following:

• Successfully pursue career objectives in graduate school or professional schools, in a scientific career in government or industry, in a teaching career, or in a related career.
• Think creatively about scientific problems and their solutions, to design experiments, and to constructively question results they are presented with, whether these results are in a newspaper, in a classroom, or elsewhere.

Major Maps help undergraduate students discover academic, co-curricular, and discovery opportunities at UC Berkeley based on intended major or field of interest. Developed by the Division of Undergraduate Education in collaboration with academic departments, these experience maps will help you:

Explore your major and gain a better understanding of your field of study

Connect with people and programs that inspire and sustain your creativity, drive, curiosity and success

Discover opportunities for independent inquiry, enterprise, and creative expression

Engage locally and globally to broaden your perspectives and change the world

• Reflect on your academic career and prepare for life after Berkeley

Use the major map below as a guide to planning your undergraduate journey and designing your own unique Berkeley experience.

View the Physics Major Map PDF.

All students interested in the Physics major should come in for major advising as soon as possible starting their first semester on campus for individualized assistance. Professional advisers can assist with a wide range of matters including academic course planning, research, career, and graduate school goals.

Undergraduate Advisor

Kathleen Cooney [email protected] 374 Physics North 510-664-7557

Academic Opportunities

Berkeley connect in physics.

Berkeley Connect in Physics is a mentoring program that pairs physics graduate mentors with undergraduate physics students. The goals of the program are to help students develop understanding, community, and career preparedness that go beyond what traditional courses provide. Interactions with graduate students and faculty will play a large role throughout the semester. The course is a small seminar class led by the physics graduate student mentor. Some of the meetings will include the following:

• Visits to research labs on campus and at the national labs to talk to faculty, scientists, and graduate students.
• Preparing students for a broad range of career trajectories including ones outside of academia.
• Discussions of science in the news and science and society.
• Resources for finding research opportunities on campus, REUs, internships.
• Developing skills that will make you an attractive candidate for undergraduate research.
• Exploration of the idea of scientific models.
• Building a community of physics student scientists.

Berkeley Connect is a 1 unit seminar course that meets once a week for one hour. It is designed to be very low workload but have large benefits for physics undergraduates. For more information please visit the Berkeley Connect website .

PHYSICS 5A Introductory Mechanics and Relativity 3 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023 Kinematics, dynamics, work and energy, rotational motion, oscillations, fluids and relativity. Use of calculus and vector algebra will be emphasized. Intended for students with an interest in pursuing a major in physics, astrophysics, engineering physics, or related disciplines. Successor to the Physics H7 series. Start of three semester 5A-5B-5C sequence. Introductory Mechanics and Relativity: Read More [+]

Rules & Requirements

Prerequisites: Prerequisites: Math 1A; Math 1B (which may be taken concurrently)

Repeat rules: Course may be repeated for credit under special circumstances: Only repeatable to replace deficient grade.

Hours & Format

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 3 hours of lecture and 2 hours of discussion per week

Additional Format: Three hours of lecture and two hours of discussion per week.

Additional Details

Subject/Course Level: Physics/Undergraduate

Grading/Final exam status: Letter grade. Final exam required.

Introductory Mechanics and Relativity: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 5B Introductory Electromagnetism, Waves, and Optics 3 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023 Electric fields and potential, circuits, magnetism and induction. Introduction to optics including light propagation, reflection, refraction and interference. Intended for students with an interest in pursuing a major in physics, astrophysics, engineering physics, or related disciplines. Successor to the Physics H7 series. Continuation of 5A-5B-5C sequence. Introductory Electromagnetism, Waves, and Optics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Prerequisites: Physics 5A or 7A; Math 53 (which may be taken concurrently)

Introductory Electromagnetism, Waves, and Optics: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 5BL Introduction to Experimental Physics I 2 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023 Part one of a two-semester laboratory sequence to introduce students to experimental physics and prepare them for research. Covers a variety of modern and historical experiments, emphasizing data analysis, clear scientific communication, and development of skills on modern equipment. Successor to the Physics H7 series. Introduction to Experimental Physics I: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Prerequisites: Physics 5A or 7A; 5B or 7B (which may be taken concurrently)

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 5 hours of laboratory per week

Summer: 6 weeks - 12.5 hours of laboratory per week

Additional Format: Two 2.5-hr labs per week for 14 weeks, which include lectures for the first five weeks. Twelve and one-half hours of laboratory per week for 6 weeks.

Grading/Final exam status: Letter grade. Alternative to final exam.

Introduction to Experimental Physics I: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 5C Introductory Thermodynamics and Quantum Mechanics 3 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023 Temperature, kinetic theory, entropy; particle/wave nature of matter, Schrodinger equation, hydrogen atom, applications of quantum physics. Intended for students with an interest in pursuing a major in physics, astrophysics, engineering physics or related disciplines. Continuation of 5A-5B-5C sequence. Successor to the Physics H7 series. Introductory Thermodynamics and Quantum Mechanics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Prerequisites: Physics 5B or 7B; Physics 89 or Math 54 (which may be taken concurrently)

Introductory Thermodynamics and Quantum Mechanics: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 5CL Introduction to Experimental Physics II 2 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023 Part two of a two-semester laboratory sequence to introduce students to experimental physics and prepare them for research. Covers a variety of modern and historical experiments, emphasizing iterative experimental design, clear scientific communication, and development of skills on modern equipment. Successor to the Physics H7 series. Introduction to Experimental Physics II: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Physics 5B & 5BL or 7B; Physics 5C or 7C (which may be taken concurrently)

Additional Format: Two 2.5-hr labs per week for 14 weeks. Twelve and one-half hours of laboratory per week for 6 weeks.

Introduction to Experimental Physics II: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 7A Physics for Scientists and Engineers 4 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Summer 2024 8 Week Session, Spring 2024 Mechanics and wave motion. Physics for Scientists and Engineers: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: High school physics; Math 1A; Math 1B (which may be taken concurrently)

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 3 hours of lecture, 2 hours of discussion, and 2 hours of laboratory per week

Summer: 8 weeks - 6 hours of lecture, 4 hours of discussion, and 4 hours of laboratory per week

Additional Format: Three hours of lecture and four hours of laboratory/workshop per week.Six hours of lecture and eight hours of laboratory/workshop per week for eight weeks.

Physics for Scientists and Engineers: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 7B Physics for Scientists and Engineers 4 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Summer 2024 8 Week Session, Spring 2024 Heat, electricity, and magnetism. Physics for Scientists and Engineers: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 7A, Math 1A-1B, Math 53 (may be taken concurrently)

PHYSICS 7C Physics for Scientists and Engineers 4 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023 Electromagnetic waves, optics, relativity, and quantum physics. Physics for Scientists and Engineers: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 7A-7B, Math 1A-1B, Math 53, 54 (Math 54 may be taken concurrently)

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 3 hours of lecture, 1 hour of discussion, and 3 hours of laboratory per week

Summer: 8 weeks - 6 hours of lecture, 2 hours of discussion, and 6 hours of laboratory per week

Additional Format: Three hours of Lecture, One hour of Discussion, and Three hours of Laboratory per week for 15 weeks. Six hours of Lecture, Two hours of Discussion, and Six hours of Laboratory per week for 8 weeks.

PHYSICS H7A Physics for Scientists and Engineers 4 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2015, Fall 2014, Fall 2013 Honors sequence corresponding to 7A-7B-7C, but with a greater emphasis on theory as opposed to problem solving. Recommended for those students who have had advanced Physics on the high school level and who are intending to declare a major in physics. Entrance into H7A is decided on the basis of performance on an examination given during the first week of class or the consent of the instructor, and into H7B-H7C on performance in previous courses in a standard sequence. Physics for Scientists and Engineers: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: High school physics; Math 1A; Math 1B (may be taken concurrently)

Credit Restrictions: Students will received no credit for H7A after taking 7A.

Additional Format: Three hours of Lecture, One hour of Discussion, and Three hours of Laboratory per week for 15 weeks.

PHYSICS H7B Physics for Scientists and Engineers 4 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2016, Spring 2016, Fall 2015 Honors sequence corresponding to 7A-7B-7C, but with a greater emphasis on theory as opposed to problem solving. Recommended for those students who have had advanced Physics on the high school level and who are intending to declare a major in physics. Entrance into H7A is decided on the basis of performance on an examination given during the first week of class or the consent of the instructor, and into H7B-H7C on performance in previous courses in a standard sequence. Physics for Scientists and Engineers: Read More [+]

Credit Restrictions: Students will receive no credit H7B after taking 7B.

PHYSICS H7C Physics for Scientists and Engineers 4 Units

Physics 8a introductory physics 4 units.

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Summer 2024 10 Week Session, Spring 2024 Introduction to forces, kinetics, equilibria, fluids, waves, and heat. This course presents concepts and methodologies for understanding physical phenomena, and is particularly useful preparation for upper division study in biology and architecture. Introductory Physics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Mathematics 1A, 10A, 16A, or equivalent, or consent of instructor

Credit Restrictions: Students with credit for 7A will not receive credit for 8A.

Summer: 8 weeks - 6 hours of lecture, 4 hours of discussion, and 4 hours of laboratory per week 10 weeks - 6 hours of lecture, 4 hours of discussion, and 4 hours of laboratory per week

Additional Format: Three hours of lecture and four hours of discussion/laboratory week. Six hours of lecture and eight hours of laboratory/workshop per week for eight weeks.

Introductory Physics: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 8B Introductory Physics 4 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Summer 2024 8 Week Session, Spring 2024 Introduction to electricity, magnetism, electromagnetic waves, optics, and modern physics. The course presents concepts and methodologies for understanding physical phenomena, and is particularly useful preparation for upper division study in biology and architecture. Introductory Physics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 8A or equivalent

Credit Restrictions: Students with credit for 7B or 7C will not receive credit for Physics 8B.

Additional Format: Three hours of lecture and four hours of discussion/laboratory section per week. Six hours of lecture and eight hours of laboratory/workshop per week for eight weeks.

PHYSICS 10 Descriptive Introduction to Physics 3 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Fall 2018 The most interesting and important topics in physics, stressing conceptual understanding rather than math, with applications to current events. Topics covered may vary and may include energy and conservation, radioactivity, nuclear physics, the Theory of Relativity, lasers, explosions, earthquakes, superconductors, and quantum physics. Descriptive Introduction to Physics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Open to students with or without high school physics

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 3 hours of lecture and 1 hour of discussion per week

Summer: 8 weeks - 6 hours of lecture and 2 hours of discussion per week

Additional Format: Three hours of Lecture and One hour of Discussion per week for 15 weeks. Six hours of Lecture and Two hours of Discussion per week for 8 weeks.

Descriptive Introduction to Physics: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS C10 Descriptive Introduction to Physics 3 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022, Spring 2022 The most interesting and important topics in physics, stressing conceptual understanding rather than math, with applications to current events. Topics covered may vary and may include energy and conservation, radioactivity, nuclear physics, the Theory of Relativity, lasers, explosions, earthquakes, superconductors, and quantum physics. Descriptive Introduction to Physics: Read More [+]

Also listed as: L & S C70V

PHYSICS 21 Physics of Music 3 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2003, Spring 2002, Spring 2000 Physical principles encountered in the study of music. The applicable laws of mechanics, fundamentals of sound, harmonic content, principles of sound production in musical instruments, musical scales. Numerous illustrative lecture demonstrations will be given. Only the basics of high school algebra and geometry will be used. Physics of Music: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: No previous courses in Physics are assumed, although Physics 10 is recommended

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 2 hours of lecture and 1 hour of discussion per week

Additional Format: Two hours of lecture and one hour of discussion per week.

Physics of Music: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS C21 Physics and Music 3 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022, Spring 2021 What can we learn about the nature of reality and the ways that we humans have invented to discover how the world works? An exploration of these questions through the physical principles encountered in the study of music. The applicable laws of mechanics, fundamentals of sound, harmonic content, principles of sound production in musical instruments, musical scales. Numerous illustrative lecture demonstrations will be given. Only the basics of high school algebra and geometry will be used. Physics and Music: Read More [+]

Credit Restrictions: Students will receive no credit for Physics C21/Letters and Science C70W after completing Physics 21. A deficient grade in Physics 21 may be removed by taking Physics C21/Letters and Science C70W.

Also listed as: L & S C70W

Physics and Music: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 24 Freshman Seminars 1 Unit

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023 The Berkeley Seminar Program has been designed to provide new students with the opportunity to explore an intellectual topic with a faculty member in a small-seminar setting. Berkeley Seminars are offered in all campus departments, and topics vary from department to department and semester to semester. Freshman Seminars: Read More [+]

Repeat rules: Course may be repeated for credit when topic changes.

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 1 hour of seminar per week

Additional Format: One hour of Seminar per week for 15 weeks.

Grading/Final exam status: The grading option will be decided by the instructor when the class is offered. Final exam required.

Freshman Seminars: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 39 Lower Division Physics Seminar 1.5 - 4 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2010, Spring 2009, Fall 2008 Enrollment limited to 20 students per section. Physics seminar course designed for both non major students and students considering a major in physics. Topics vary from semester to semester. Lower Division Physics Seminar: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Enrollment by consent of instructor during the week of pre-enrollment. Consult bulletin boards outside 366 Le Conte for more information

Repeat rules: Course may be repeated for credit without restriction.

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 1.5-4 hours of seminar per week

Summer: 6 weeks - 3.5-10 hours of seminar per week

Additional Format: One and one-half to four hours of seminar per week. Three and one-half to ten hours of seminar per week for 6 weeks.

Lower Division Physics Seminar: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 49 Supplementary Work in Lower Division Physics 1 - 3 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2021, Fall 2018, Spring 2018 Students with partial credit in lower division physics courses may, with consent of instructor, complete the credit under this heading. Supplementary Work in Lower Division Physics: Read More [+]

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 0 hours of independent study per week

Summer: 8 weeks - 1-3 hours of independent study per week

Additional Format: Meetings to be arranged.

Grading/Final exam status: Letter grade. Final exam not required.

Supplementary Work in Lower Division Physics: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 77 Introduction to Computational Techniques in Physics 3 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Summer 2024 10 Week Session, Spring 2024 Introductory scientific programming in Python with examples from physics. Topics include: visualization, statistics and probability, regression, numerical integration, simulation, data modeling, function approximation, and algebraic systems. Recommended for freshman physics majors. Introduction to Computational Techniques in Physics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Math 1A, Math 1B (can be taken concurrently); Physics 5A or 7A (which may be taken concurrently) or permission of instructor

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of workshop per week

Summer: 10 weeks - 3 hours of lecture and 3 hours of workshop per week

Additional Format: Two hours of lecture and two hours of workshop per week. Three hours of lecture and three hours of workshop per week for 10 weeks.

Introduction to Computational Techniques in Physics: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 88 Data Science Applications in Physics 2 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023 Introduction to data science with applications to physics. Topics include: statistics and probability in physics, modeling of the physical systems and data, numerical integration and differentiation, function approximation. Connector course for Data Science 8, room-shared with Physics 77. Recommended for freshmen intended to major in physics or engineering with emphasis on data science. Data Science Applications in Physics: Read More [+]

Objectives & Outcomes

Student Learning Outcomes: Learning goals for Physics 88 The following learning goals will guide the presentation of material as well as development of HWs, rubrics for assessment, and practice problems for use in discussion section: 1) Use of representations, 2) Communication, 3) Tools, 4) Problem-Solving, 5) Making connections, 6) Intellectual maturity and metacognition, 7) Resourcefulness.

Prerequisites: Math 1A, 1B (1B can be taken concurrently), Physics 5A or 7A (may be taken concurrently), Data Science 8 (may be taken concurrently), or permission of instructor

Fall and/or spring: 9 weeks - 2 hours of lecture and 2 hours of workshop per week

Summer: 6 weeks - 3 hours of lecture and 3 hours of workshop per week

Additional Format: Three hours of lecture and three hours of workshop per week for 6 weeks. Two hours of lecture and two hours of workshop per week for nine weeks.

Data Science Applications in Physics: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 89 Introduction to Mathematical Physics 4 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Summer 2024 10 Week Session, Spring 2024 Complex numbers, linear algebra, ordinary differential equations, Fourier series and transform methods, introduction to partial differential equations, introduction to tensors. Applications to physics will be emphasized. This course or an equivalent course required for physics major. Introduction to Mathematical Physics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Math 53; Physics 5A or 7A (can be taken concurrently) or instructor’s consent

Summer: 10 weeks - 4 hours of lecture and 3 hours of discussion per week 10 weeks - 4 hours of lecture and 3 hours of discussion per week

Additional Format: Three hours of lecture and two hours of discussion per week. Four hours of lecture and three hours of discussion per week for 10 weeks. Four hours of lecture and three hours of discussion per week for 10 weeks.

Introduction to Mathematical Physics: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS W89 Introduction to Mathematical Physics 4 Units

Terms offered: Summer 2023 10 Week Session, Summer 2022 10 Week Session, Summer 2021 10 Week Session Math is the natural language of physics. Of central importance to nearly all areas of physics are the fields of linear algebra and differential equations. A solid understanding of the structure and techniques of these fields will allow you to dig deeper into all of your physics courses and give you a greater appreciation of the beauty of physical theory. In this course we will develop and explore a collection of tools including complex numbers, linear algebra, differential equations, Fourier series and transform methods, and tensors. Along the way this course will explore many example systems you were exposed to in your introductory physics classes including waves, circuits, rotations, and oscillations. Introduction to Mathematical Physics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Math 53; Physics 5A or 7A (can be taken concurrently) or Instructor’s Consent

Credit Restrictions: Students will receive no credit for PHYSICS W89 after completing PHYSICS 89 . A deficient grade in PHYSICS W89 may be removed by taking PHYSICS 89 , or PHYSICS 89 .

Summer: 10 weeks - 6 hours of web-based lecture and 2 hours of web-based discussion per week

Additional Format: Two hours of web-based discussion and six hours of web-based lecture per week for 10 weeks.

Online: This is an online course.

PHYSICS 98 Directed Group Study 1 - 4 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023 Directed Group Study: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Restricted to freshman and sophomores only; consent of instructor

Credit Restrictions: Enrollment is restricted; see the Introduction to Courses and Curricula section of this catalog.

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 1-4 hours of directed group study per week

Summer: 8 weeks - 1.5-7.5 hours of directed group study per week

Additional Format: One to Four hour of Directed group study per week for 15 weeks. One and one-half to Seven and one-half hours of Directed group study per week for 8 weeks.

Grading/Final exam status: Offered for pass/not pass grade only. Final exam not required.

Directed Group Study: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 98BC Berkeley Connect 1 Unit

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023 Berkeley Connect is a mentoring program, offered through various academic departments, that helps students build intellectual community. Over the course of a semester, enrolled students participate in regular small-group discussions facilitated by a graduate student mentor (following a faculty-directed curriculum), meet with their graduate student mentor for one-on-one academic advising, attend lectures and panel discussions featuring department faculty and alumni, and go on field trips to campus resources. Students are not required to be declared majors in order to participate. Berkeley Connect: Read More [+]

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 1 hour of directed group study per week

Additional Format: One hour of directed group study per week.

Berkeley Connect: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 99 Supervised Independent Study 1 - 3 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2017, Spring 2016, Fall 2015 Supervised Independent Study: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Restricted to freshmen and sophomores only; consent of instructor

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 1-4 hours of independent study per week

Summer: 8 weeks - 1.5-7.5 hours of independent study per week

Additional Format: One to Four hour of Independent study per week for 15 weeks. One and one-half to Seven and one-half hours of Independent study per week for 8 weeks.

Supervised Independent Study: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 100 Communicating Physics and Physical Science 2 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2010, Spring 2009, Spring 2008 For undergraduate and graduate students interested in improving their ability to communicate scientific knowledge by teaching science in K-12 schools. The course will combine instruction in inquiry-based science teaching methods and learning pedagogy with 10 weeks of supervised teaching experience in a local school. Students will practice, with support and mentoring, communicating scientific knowledge through presentations and hands-on activities. Approximately three hours per week including time spent in school classrooms. Communicating Physics and Physical Science: Read More [+]

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 2 hours of lecture per week

Additional Format: Two hours of lecture/fieldwork per week.

Communicating Physics and Physical Science: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 105 Analytic Mechanics 4 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Summer 2024 8 Week Session, Spring 2024 Newtonian mechanics, motion of a particle in one, two, and three dimensions, Lagrange’s equations, Hamilton's equations, central force motion, moving coordinate systems, mechanics of continuous media, oscillations, normal modes, rigid body dynamics, tensor analysis techniques. Some knowledge of Python required for homework assignments. Students who have not taken Physics 77 or Data Science 8 are encouraged to complete the Python tutorials provided by the Physics Department. Analytic Mechanics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Physics 5A, 5B, 5C or 7A, 7B, 7C

Additional Format: Three hours of lecture and one hour of discussion per week. Six hours of lecture and two hours of discussion per week for 8 weeks.

Analytic Mechanics: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 110A Electromagnetism and Optics 4 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023 Part I. A course emphasizing electromagnetic theory and applications; charges and currents; electric and magnetic fields; dielectric, conducting, and magnetic media; relativity, Maxwell equations. Wave propagation in media, radiation and scattering, Fourier optics, interference and diffraction, ray optics and applications. Electromagnetism and Optics: Read More [+]

Electromagnetism and Optics: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 110B Electromagnetism and Optics 4 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023 Part II. A course emphasizing electromagnetic theory and applications; charges and currents; electric and magnetic fields; dielectric, conducting, and magnetic media; relativity, Maxwell equations. Wave propagation in media, radiation and scattering, Fourier optics, interference and diffraction, ray optics and applications. Electromagnetism and Optics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Physics 5A, 5B, 5C or 7A, 7B, 7C and 110A

Additional Format: Three hours of Lecture and One hour of Discussion per week for 15 weeks.

PHYSICS 111A Instrumentation Laboratory 4 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023 The instrumentation lab (formerly Basic Semiconductor Circuits) is an introductory course in basic design, analysis and modeling of circuits, and data analysis and control. Topics include but not limited to: linear circuits, semiconductor diodes, JFETS, Op-Amps, Labview programming, ADC and DAC converters, signal processing, and feedback control. Instrumentation Laboratory: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Consent of Instructor

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 8 hours of laboratory and 1.5 hours of lecture per week

Summer: 10 weeks - 12 hours of laboratory and 4.5 hours of lecture per week

Additional Format: One and one-half hours of lecture and eight hours of laboratory per week. Four and one-half hours of lecture and twelve hours of laboratory per week for 10 weeks.

Instrumentation Laboratory: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 111B Advanced Experimentation Laboratory 1 - 3 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023 In the advanced experimentation lab students complete four of 20+ advanced experiments. These include many experiments in atomic, nuclear, particle physics, biophysics, and solid-state physics, among others. Advanced Experimentation Laboratory: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Physics 111A and 137A or consent of instructor

Credit Restrictions: Three units of the Advanced Experimentation lab required for physics major; After the first three units, lab may be repeated for additional credit. No more than three units may be completed in one semester.

Repeat rules: Course may be repeated for credit with instructor consent.

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 3-9 hours of laboratory per week

Additional Format: Three to nine hours of laboratory per week.

Formerly known as: Physics 111

Advanced Experimentation Laboratory: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 112 Introduction to Statistical and Thermal Physics 4 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023 Basic concepts of statistical mechanics, microscopic basis of thermodynamics and applications to macroscopic systems, condensed states, phase transformations, quantum distributions, elementary kinetic theory of transport processes, fluctuation phenomena. Some knowledge of Python required for homework assignments. Students who have not taken Physics 77 or Data Science 8 are encouraged to complete the Python tutorials provided by the Physics D epartment. Introduction to Statistical and Thermal Physics: Read More [+]

Introduction to Statistical and Thermal Physics: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 129 Particle Physics 4 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022 Tools of particle and nuclear physics. Properties, classification, and interaction of particles including the quark-gluon constituents of hadrons. High energy phenomena analyzed by quantum mechanical methods. Course will survey the field including some related topics in nuclear physics. Some knowledge of Python required. Students who have not taken Physics 77 or Data Science 8 are encouraged to complete the Python tutorials provided by the Physics Department. Particle Physics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 137A, 137B (may be taken concurrently), or consent of instructor

Formerly known as: 129A

Particle Physics: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 130 Quantum and Nonlinear Optics 3 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2022, Spring 2020 The detailed theory and experimental basis of quantum and nonlinear optics is presented and used to exhibit basic concepts of quantum measurements and noise, stochastic processes and dissipative quantum systems. Topics covered may include the second-quantization treatment of electromagnetic fields, photodetection, coherence properties of quantum-optical fields, light-atom interactions, cavity quantum electrodynamics, several non-linear optical systems, squeezed light and its applications, aspects of quantum information science, and selected topics at the forefront of modern optics research. Quantum and Nonlinear Optics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 110A and 137A-137B, or consent of instructor

Additional Format: Three hours of lecture and one hour of discussion per week.

Quantum and Nonlinear Optics: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 137A Quantum Mechanics 4 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Summer 2024 8 Week Session, Spring 2024 Part I. Introduction to the methods of quantum mechanics with applications to atomic, molecular, solid state, nuclear and elementary particle physics. Quantum Mechanics: Read More [+]

Quantum Mechanics: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 137B Quantum Mechanics 4 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023 Part II. Introduction to the methods of quantum mechanics with applications to atomic, molecular, solid state, nuclear and elementary particle physics. Quantum Mechanics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Physics 7A, 7B, 7C and 137A

PHYSICS 138 Modern Atomic Physics 3 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2023, Spring 2021, Spring 2019 Atomic, molecular, and optical physics is at once a precise and quantitative description of atoms, molecules and light; a generalized toolbox for manipulating and probing quantum systems; and an active field of contemporary research. This course exposes students to all these aspects. Lectures will cover topics such as atomic structure and spectra, the interaction of atoms with static and time-varying electromagnetic fields, some topics in quantum electrodynamics, methods of resonant manipulation of quantum systems, and resonance optics. Through lectures, discussion sessions, and homework assignments, students encounter contemporary research foci. Modern Atomic Physics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 137A-137B

Modern Atomic Physics: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 139 Special Relativity and General Relativity 3 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022 Historical and experimental foundations of Einstein's special theory of relativity; spatial and temporal measurements, particle dynamics, electrodynamics, Lorentz invariants. Introduction to general relativity. Selected applications. Designed for advanced undergraduates in physics and astronomy. Special Relativity and General Relativity: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 105, 110A or consent of instructor

Special Relativity and General Relativity: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 141A Solid State Physics 4 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023 Part I. A thorough introductory course in modern solid state physics. Crystal symmetries; classification of solids and their bonding; electromagnetic, elastic, and particle waves in periodic lattices; thermal magnetic and dielectric properties of solids; energy bands of metals and semi-conductors; superconductivity; magnetism; ferroelectricity; magnetic resonances. Solid State Physics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 137A-137B; 137B may be taken concurrently

Solid State Physics: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 141B Solid State Physics 3 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022 Part II. A thorough introductory course in modern solid state physics. Crystal symmetries; classification of solids and their bonding; electromagnetic, elastic, and particle waves in periodic lattices; thermal magnetic and dielectric properties of solids; energy bands of metals and semi-conductors; superconductivity; magnetism; ferroelectricity; magnetic resonances. Solid State Physics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 137A-137B and 141A

PHYSICS 142 Introduction to Plasma Physics 4 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2022, Spring 2021 Motion of charged particles in electric and magnetic fields, dynamics of fully ionized plasma from both microscopic and macroscopic point of view, magnetohydrodynamics, small amplitude waves; examples from astrophysics, space sciences and controlled-fusion research. Introduction to Plasma Physics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 105, 110A-110B (110B may be taken concurrently)

Introduction to Plasma Physics: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 151 Elective Physics: Special Topics 3 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Spring 2023 Topics vary from semester to semester. The subject matter level and scope of the course are such that it is acceptable as the required elective course in the Physics major. See Department of Physics course announcements. Elective Physics: Special Topics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Consent of instructor

Elective Physics: Special Topics: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 153 Foundational Course for Physical Science Transfer Students 1 Unit

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022 This course is designed to assist physics and other physical sciences transfer students in their transition to UC Berkeley. Over the course of a semester, students will learn about campus resources, how to navigate the campus, establish connections with other students in their cohorts, receive physics transfer peer mentorship and advising. Students will work in small-groups to solve challenging mathematical and physics concepts to assist with academic success. Foundational Course for Physical Science Transfer Students: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Open only to physics and other physical sciences transfer students

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 1 hour of lecture per week

Additional Format: One hour of lecture per week.

Foundational Course for Physical Science Transfer Students: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS C161 Relativistic Astrophysics and Cosmology 4 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022 Elements of general relativity. Physics of pulsars, cosmic rays, black holes. The cosmological distance scale, elementary cosmological models, properties of galaxies and quasars. The mass density and age of the universe. Evidence for dark matter and dark energy and concepts of the early universe and of galaxy formation. Reflections on astrophysics as a probe of the extrema of physics. Relativistic Astrophysics and Cosmology: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Astro 7B recommended; Physics 7A-7B-7C (7C may be taken concurrently) or Physics 5A-5B-5C (5C may be taken concurrently)

Instructors: Lee, Ma, Kasen

Also listed as: ASTRON C161

Relativistic Astrophysics and Cosmology: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 177 Principles of Molecular Biophysics 3 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022 We will describe how concepts of free energy and entropy help us understand cooperative folding, conformational switching, and phase separation of proteins and explain the dynamics of biological molecules in a viscous and crowded cellular environment. We will then develop analytical approaches to a wide range of collective biophysical phenomena, including bacterial chemotaxis, swimming of sperm, stepping of molecular motors, neuronal firing , vision, photosynthesis, biological networks, pattern formation, and evolution. The course will also introduce advanced biophysical methods, such as single-molecule imaging and manipulation, and electrophysiology. Principles of Molecular Biophysics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: 112 or consent of instructor

Principles of Molecular Biophysics: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS C180 Order-Of-Magnitude Physics 4 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024 Learn how to understand the world around you to within a factor of 10, how to solve real-life problems from physical first principles, how to make ill-posed questions well-posed, and how to sketch solutions quickly and avoid long and formal derivations. These skills build physical intuition and are crucial for all lines of work, especially research. You will learn how to guess intelligently, how to follow your hunches while guided by the laws of physics, and how to maximize understanding from just a modicum of information --- how to reason inductively and quantitatively. All of undergraduate physics --- mechanics, E&M, quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics --- will be covered in useful, memorable, and entertaining ways. Order-Of-Magnitude Physics: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Physics 7A, 7B, 7C (or 5 equivalent) + preferably at least 1 upper-division course in the physical sciences. Suitable also for graduate students

Credit Restrictions: Students will receive no credit for PHYSICS C101 after completing PHYSICS 101. A deficient grade in PHYSICS C101 may be removed by taking PHYSICS 101.

Grading/Final exam status: Letter grade. Final exam required, with common exam group.

Formerly known as: Physics C101/Astronomy C101

Also listed as: ASTRON C180

Order-Of-Magnitude Physics: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 188 Bayesian Data Analysis and Machine Learning for Physical Sciences 4 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Fall 2023, Fall 2022 The course design covers data analysis and machine learning, highlighting their importance to the physical sciences. It covers data analysis with linear and nonlinear regression, logistic regression, and gaussian processes. It covers concepts in machine learning such as unsupervised and supervised regression and classification learning. It develops Bayesian statistics and information theory, covering concepts such as information, entropy, posteriors , MCMC, latent variables, graphical models and hierarchical Bayesian modeling. It covers numerical analysis topics such as integration and ODE, linear algebra, multi-dimensional optimization, and Fourier transforms. Bayesian Data Analysis and Machine Learning for Physical Sciences: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Physics 77 or Data Science 8 or Computer Science 61A or an introductory Python course, or equivalent, or permission from instructor; Physics 89 or Mathematics 54 or Electrical Engineering 16A/B

Bayesian Data Analysis and Machine Learning for Physical Sciences: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS H190 Physics Honors Course 2 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2024, Spring 2023, Spring 2022 A seminar which includes study and reports on current theoretical and experimental problems. Open only to students officially in the physics honors program or with consent of instructor. Physics Honors Course: Read More [+]

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 2 hours of seminar per week

Additional Format: Two hours of Seminar per week for 15 weeks.

Physics Honors Course: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS C191 Introduction to Quantum Computing 4 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Spring 2024, Fall 2023 This multidisciplinary course provides an introduction to fundamental conceptual aspects of quantum mechanics from a computational and informational theoretic perspective, as well as physical implementations and technological applications of quantum information science. Basic sections of quantum algorithms, complexity, and cryptography, will be touched upon, as well as pertinent physical realizations from nanoscale science and engineering. Introduction to Quantum Computing: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Linear Algebra ( EECS 16A or PHYSICS 89 or MATH 54 ) AND either discrete mathematics ( COMPSCI 70 or MATH 55 ), or quantum mechanics ( PHYSICS 7C or PHYSICS 137A or CHEM 120A )

Also listed as: CHEM C191/COMPSCI C191

Introduction to Quantum Computing: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS H195A Senior Honors Thesis Research 2 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2022, Fall 2019, Spring 2016 Thesis work under the supervision of a faculty member. To obtain credit the student must, at the end of two semesters, submit a satisfactory thesis. A total of four units must be taken. The units may be distributed between one or two semesters in any way. Senior Honors Thesis Research: Read More [+]

Prerequisites: Open only to students in the honors program

Additional Format: Zero hours of Independent study per week for 15 weeks.

Grading/Final exam status: Letter grade. This is part one of a year long series course. A provisional grade of IP (in progress) will be applied and later replaced with the final grade after completing part two of the series. Final exam not required.

Senior Honors Thesis Research: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS H195B Senior Honors Thesis Research 2 Units

Terms offered: Spring 2016, Fall 2015, Spring 2015 Thesis work under the supervision of a faculty member. To obtain credit the student must, at the end of two semesters, submit a satisfactory thesis. A total of four units must be taken. The units may be distributed between one or two semesters in any way. Senior Honors Thesis Research: Read More [+]

Grading/Final exam status: Letter grade. This is part two of a year long series course. Upon completion, the final grade will be applied to both parts of the series. Final exam not required.

PHYSICS 198 Directed Group Study 1 - 4 Units

Terms offered: Fall 2024, Summer 2024 Second 6 Week Session, Spring 2024 Enrollment restrictions apply; see the Introduction to Courses and Curricula section in this catalog. Directed Group Study: Read More [+]

Summer: 6 weeks - 2.5-10 hours of directed group study per week 8 weeks - 1.5-7.5 hours of directed group study per week

Additional Format: One to Four hour of Directed group study per week for 15 weeks. One and one-half to Seven and one-half hours of Directed group study per week for 8 weeks. Two and one-half to Ten hours of Directed group study per week for 6 weeks.

PHYSICS 198BC Berkeley Connect 1 Unit

Physics 198f frontiers of physics 2 units.

Terms offered: Prior to 2007 Discussion-based introduction to contemporary research in physics for advanced undergraduates. Presentation of different weekly topics in physics research led by graduate students, postdocs, or professors in a particular field to connect upper division physics majors with contemporary research and to increase dialogue between upper division undergraduates and researchers in the department. Frontiers of Physics: Read More [+]

Course Objectives: -- To connect upper division physics majors with contemporary research in a way that traditional coursework does not. -- To connect upper division physics majors with contemporary research in a way that traditional coursework does not. -- To increase dialogue between upper division undergraduates and researchers in the department. -- To help undergraduates make more informed career choices.

Student Learning Outcomes: -- Students left the course with a more broadened and more concrete understanding of what “pursuing research in physics” consists of. They also found themselves interested in areas of physics they didn’t expect or hadn’t known existed. -- Students gained connections in the department. This has resulted in research projects for several students -- Students received mentoring from the graduate student on many career path issues. -- Small class size and discussion format strengthened the physics community both laterally and vertically.

Prerequisites: Physics 7A, 7B, 7C or consent of instructor

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 2 hours of directed group study per week

Additional Format: Two hours of directed group study per week.

Grading/Final exam status: Offered for pass/not pass grade only. Alternative to final exam.

Frontiers of Physics: Read Less [-]

PHYSICS 199 Supervised Independent Study 1 - 3 Units

Terms offered: Summer 2024 Second 6 Week Session, Spring 2024, Summer 2023 Second 6 Week Session Enrollment restrictions apply; see the Introduction to Courses and Curricula section in this catalog. Supervised Independent Study: Read More [+]

Fall and/or spring: 15 weeks - 2-6 hours of independent study per week

Summer: 3 weeks - 10-25 hours of independent study per week 6 weeks - 2.5-7.5 hours of independent study per week 8 weeks - 1.5-5.5 hours of independent study per week 10 weeks - 1.5-4.5 hours of independent study per week

Additional Format: Two to six hours of independent study per week. One and one-half to four and one-half hours of independent study per week for 10 weeks. One and one-half to five and one-half hours of independent study per week for 8 weeks. Two and one-half to seven and one-half hours of independent study per week for 6 weeks. Ten to twenty five hours of independent study per week for three weeks.

Contact Information

Department of physics.

366 Physics North

Phone: 510-642-3316

Fax: 510-643-8497

Department Chair

Professor James Analytis

[email protected]

Director of Student Services

Claudia Trujillo

376 Physics North

Phone: 510-643-5261

[email protected]

Assistant Director of Student Services, Lead Graduate Advisor

Joelle Miles

378 Physics North

Phone: 510-642-7524

[email protected]

Graduate Advisor

370 Physics North

Kathleen Cooney

374 Physics North

Phone: 510-664-7557

[email protected]

368 Physics North

Phone: 510-642-0481

[email protected]

Scheduler and BPIE Advisor

Isabella Mariano

372 Physics North

Phone: 510-664-5506

[email protected]

Visiting Student Program Coordinator

[email protected]

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Doctoral (Ph.D.) Program

In order to receive the Ph.D. in Nuclear Engineering, all students must successfully complete the following three milestones:

• Required coursework: major and minor requirements
• Departmental Exams: first year screening exams and the oral qualifying exam

Dissertation

Major Field Requirement

The major field is always defined as “Nuclear Engineering”, not the student’s specific research area.  All six courses required for this field must be NE courses in the department.  Occasionally students may petition to include courses taught by NE faculty in other departments.

Minor Requirements (two minors required)

In addition to a major field, each student must select two minor fields that serve to broaden the base of the studies and lend support to the major field. Each minor program field should have an orientation different from the major program.  Typically, at least one minor field consists of regular courses taken outside the department (i.e., no 298 or 299 independent studies or non-graded courses).  Each field must contain at least 6 units of course credit.

Department Exams

Screening Exam

During the first year in graduate study, students must pass the screening exams, consisting of four written exams in four different subject areas. Choose four subjects from the following eight subject areas: (1) radiation detection, (2) heat transfer and fluid mechanics, (3) nuclear physics,(4) neutronics, (5) fusion theory, (6) nuclear materials, (7) radioactive waste management, and (8) Radio Biophysics. All graduate students, whether MS or PhD students, must pass four screening exams during the first year of study if they wish to be admitted to, or continue into the PhD program.

Qualifying Exam (QE)

After completing the required coursework for the PhD the student takes the oral Qualifying Exam (QE).  Students must apply to the Graduate Division to take the QE no later than three weeks before the exam date, and they they are required to list at least three subject areas to be covered during the examination, as well as the members of their QE exam committee.

Advancement to PhD candidacy 

After passing the QE, the student submits an application for advancement to PhD candidacy to the Graduate Division.  The application should be submitted no later than the end of the semester following the one in which the student passed the QE.

Non-resident students who have been advanced to PhD candidacy are eligible for a waiver of the non-resident tuition fee for a maximum calendar period of three years.

Candidacy for the doctorate is only valid for a limited time.  The Graduate Division informs the student of the number of semesters they are eligible to be a PhD candidate. Students who do not complete the dissertation within that time, plus a two-year grace period, will have their candidacy lapsed.

In order to receive a degree in any given term, all work for the degree must be completed by the last day of the term.  Students must meet the Graduate Division eligibility requirements to file a dissertation .

A dissertation on a subject chosen by the candidate, bearing on the principal subject of the student's major study and demonstrating the candidate's ability to carry out independent investigation, must be completed and receive the approval of the dissertation committee and the dean of the Graduate Division.   Students should consult " Dissertation Writing and Filing " on the Graduate Division's website.

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Irfan Siddiqi sees a bright future ahead for Berkeley Physics

For Irfan Siddiqi, becoming chair of the Department of Physics is about giving back. Since his arrival at UC Berkeley in 2006, Siddiqi has enjoyed the opportunity to teach, write a quantum textbook, and work with stellar graduate students in his lab. Now, he is helping the department plan how to build the “labs of the future” to advance education and research with modern tools. Globally recognized as an expert in quantum mechanics, Siddiqi specializes in electronic circuits made of superconducting materials that work at ultra-low temperatures within a fraction of absolute zero. His lab produces extremely small circuits — about the size of fifty nanometers, or fifty billionths of a meter — that are critical components in the dilution refrigerators that enable quantum computing. Siddiqi keeps an old, hand-built cryo-refrigerator outside his Quantum Nanoelectronics Laboratory as a reminder of how far the quantum mechanics field has come. Siddiqi sat down for an interview to share his appreciation and priorities for the physics department.

What is unique about the Department of Physics at Berkeley?

When I think about Berkeley Physics, the phrase that comes to mind is avant-garde. Here, we have a collection of thinkers who are not afraid to go outside of the box, and what’s unique about our department is that, if you have a question about something that’s not in your field, if you walk down two doors, you’ll find an expert in that field. Putting all those ideas together makes us much more the sum than the individual parts that we are. Berkeley Physics is a powerhouse for understanding how our universe works, from the smallest scales — looking at atoms and the particles within those particles — to thinking about how those pieces fit together with different theories of physics — such as quantum mechanics and general relativity — to form the universe as we know it, including black holes, dark matter, and dark energy. Others often measure the quality of a department in terms of statistical metrics — how many prizes have the faculty won and so on — and Berkeley Physics excels in all of these categories. We have numerous Nobel Prize winners . Our faculty are thought leaders across many fields of science, driving innovation both within the country and internationally. But really, what makes Berkeley Physics very special is the vibrant community that comes together when we have the synergy between students, postdocs, faculty, and staff all wanting to explore that scientific frontier together. That, in essence, is what makes Berkeley Physics an incubator for innovation.

Irfan Siddiqi opens the fall 2023 semester with a talk to physics students, faculty, and staff.

VIDEO: Physics Chair Irfan Siddiqi on the field’s evolution

Physics chair irfan siddiqi on the field’s evolution.

Watch clips from Professor Siddiqi's interview.

How has the field of physics changed?

Physics has changed in many ways, from a science that was often done in a small-scale laboratory setting to something that’s done with a lot of collaborators. In my field, we often did experiments with quantum circuits with only a few people in the lab, but as the field has grown, it has become a very large community. People are thinking about how we pool talents from across the globe to build something that is much more complex. Physics, at its core, is about problem solving. It allows us to look at the world in a very rational, mathematical, and quantitative way and think about how to change the things around us in a dramatic fashion. What we’ve seen physicists do across the board is amazing. There are no boundaries to where problem solving can take us. Each generation of students has seen a different era in physics, and what’s particularly special about the time in which we live is that fields and disciplines that were traditionally separated are coming together in a very cross-cutting fashion. For example, in the domain of quantum information science and technology, thinking about how to produce devices that will influence our world from materials that have never been used before is tremendously exciting. That involves folks who are thinking about the materials, the theory of these devices, how to design them, and how to engineer them.

Why did you choose to accept the role of department chair?

What we’ve seen physicists do across the board is amazing. There are no boundaries to where problem solving can take us. Irfan Siddiqi

I’ve taken a lot from this department. I’ve gotten some of the best students and postdocs that one can hope to get. Many of them have now gone on to become professors and leaders in the field. I’ve enjoyed looking at different scientific frontiers. I’ve had the ability to write a textbook now on quantum measurement. I think it’s high time I give something back.

What priorities are important to the department and you, as chair, over the next year?

We’re evolving as a department and a society into a realm where devices explore new rules of physics, and that requires new types of experimental tools. One of the most important things we must invest in going forward is infrastructure for new types of science. For example, the quantum science that we do now requires us to be able to remove every single particle of light from our experiment so it doesn’t spoil the quantum mechanics and to remove the vibration from every single material so that we don’t have any single atom vibrating. This is both a challenge and a frontier that remains to be explored. So, we’d like to build those labs of the future and pair them with the pedagogical tools that allow students to exchange ideas using the modern techniques available to us in the digital age. One of the major projects that Berkeley Physics is looking at is called the Physics Atrium Project. At its core, it's a new face to the building and an ability to interact with each other in a way that’s — through its glass doors — both inviting and open.

The Campanile rises above the Physics building.

Slideshow: A look inside the Physics Department

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This is our house, so we have a collective responsibility to think about how to bankroll it, support it, make it go into the next generation, and make it the laboratory for our children. Irfan Siddiqi

Why should someone give to the Department of Physics?

As a public university, we strive to think about what new programs and innovations will have an impact on a broad cross-section of society. Berkeley Physics is a truly public institution. We are able to bring together the best minds from every corner of the world. That community gives us the freedom to think about new ideas, new topics, and new issues — but, like any other freedom, the flipside of that coin is responsibility. This is our house, so we have a collective responsibility to think about how to bankroll it, support it, make it go into the next generation, and make it the laboratory for our children.

As a professor, you’ve had many researchers come through your labs. What moments make the job feel rewarding to you?

As a professor, I’ve been fortunate to have some of the most talented graduate students, postdocs, and researchers come through my lab. At last count, we have somewhere between nine and 10 of them who are now professors in the field of quantum information science. That’s a great feeling — to look at folks who have come through this lab, taken ideas that were there, and built upon them in their own independent and unique ways. Moreover, coming together as a lab, we really come together as a family. I remember one particular incident where a lab member came to my shoulder, brushed off a little bit of dust from my collar, and said, “You represent all of us together as a family.” That was a very touching moment where you can see that everyone’s looking out for each other.

Irfan Siddiqi inspects a quantum refrigerator.

To support the Department of Physics, visit give.berkeley.edu/fund/FN7151000.

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Introduction

The energy sector is on the cusp of a revolution. We're rapidly shifting from traditional, centralized systems to a more interconnected and renewable-based model. This evolution presents both unprecedented challenges and incredible opportunities. At the forefront are Distributed Energy Resources (DERs), like rooftop solar and electric vehicles. These technologies are fundamentally transforming power grids and presenting a critical challenge for utilities: limited visibility into consumer-owned resources.

This is where GridVue comes in. Our innovative machine learning solution provides utilities with visibility into the customer-side of the grid, traditionally opaque "behind the meter" activity. By synthesizing data from smart meters and weather stations, GridVue estimates a customer's energy use and solar generation. With this insight, utilities can navigate the new energy landscape more effectively, optimizing operations and enhancing grid reliability. Recognizing the value of behind-the-meter visibility, a landmark survey was conducted by Siemens AG and Oxford Economics, polling 100 utility decision-makers across North America. When asked about the potential benefits, the following percentage of executives highlighted: 60% think it can improve overall grid reliability, 53% believe it can improve capital allocation, 50% believe it can reduce operational costs, and 50% believe it can extend asset lifettime.

Basic Principel

Behind a typical utility meter, we can represent the key components as two nodes: a load node for customer demand and a solar node for photovoltaic (PV) generation. This creates three distinct signals which can be tracked:

• Gross Load: The total electricity consumption at the customer site.
• Solar Generation: The amount of electricity generated by the on-site PV system (represented as a negative value).
• Net Load: The combined power flow recorded at the meter, calculated as Gross Load minus Solar Generation. This represents the net power delivered by the utility, with Solar Generation acting as a negative contribution.

GridVue's machine learning model is trained to predict the current Solar Generation value based on a history of Net Load data and solar irradiance measurements from the closest available weather station.

GridVue's platform seamlessly integrates smart meter data with weather station data (from third-party or utility-owned sources). Utilizing advanced machine learning, we estimate photovoltaic (PV) generation and gross load at the individual meter level. By continuously analyzing real-time energy usage along with environmental factors influencing production, we uncover insights previously hidden behind the meter. Our solution provides two primary dashboards and two integration endpoints:

• An Operations Dashboard for real-time grid monitoring and operational decision support.
• A Planning Dashboard with essential data for grid planning, infrastructure investment analysis, and long-term analytics.
• A DataMart providing easy access to processed data via simple APIs for integration with external applications.
• A real-time Data Stream to feed systems requiring immediate visibility, such as Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems.

Under the hood, a multi-model approach

GridVue employs a three-step process to estimate behind-the-meter solar generation and determine a building's total electricity usage:

• Solar Detection: First, the system analyzes a 2-day history of net load data from the smart meter along with corresponding solar irradiance data from nearby weather stations. A classification model examines this data to identify if a solar power system is likely present at that location.
• Solar Generation Estimation: If the classifier detects a solar system, a separate estimation model takes over. Using the same net load and irradiance data, this model estimates the current solar power output.
• Gross Load Calculation: Finally, by combining the estimated solar generation with the latest net load measurement, GridVue calculates the building's actual electricity consumption (gross load).
• Overcoming Data Scarcity: Since real-world behind-the-meter solar data is limited, GridVue trains its models using simulated data from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). The ResStock subset of NREL's " End Use Load Profiles for the U.S. Building Stock " dataset provides physics-based simulations of household electricity consumption, including scenarios with and without solar panels. This data, representing roughly 10,000 households across diverse locations over one year, allows the models to learn patterns across various home types, consumption patterns, and climate conditions
• Testing for Real-World Performance: To validate performance in real-world conditions, GridVue utilizes the Pecan Street dataset, providing high-resolution electricity consumption and solar generation data for nearly 2,000 homes across the U.S., including 550 homes with solar panels. Since Pecan Street doesn't directly record weather data, GridVue integrates solar irradiance data from Solcast , a solar forecasting company with historical data dating back to 2007. This combined dataset enables comprehensive testing against real-world conditions.

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2024 Fall PHYSICS 88 101 WOR 101

290S/290K Quantum Materials Seminar: Niclas Heinsdorf (Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research); Wednesday, April 17 at 2:00 PM Pacific Time in 402 Physics South

Time/Venue:  Wednesday, April 17 at 2:00 PM Pacific Time in 402 Physics South and via Zoom:

https://berkeley.zoom.us/j/99523499113?pwd=REovb3pyam03WXQwbEhrU3dqNHZvdz09

Meeting ID: 995 2349 9113 Passcode: 600704

Host:  Ehud Altman, Bartholomew Andrews

Title:  Higher Berry Curvature in Interacting Fermion Systems

Abstract:  The higher Berry curvature was introduced by Kapustin and Spodyneiko as an extension of the Berry curvature in quantum mechanical systems with finite degrees of freedom to quantum many-body systems in finite spatial dimensions. In this talk, I showcase an alternative formulation of the higher Berry curvature using translationally invariant matrix product states. They are the ground states of a set of gapped Hamiltonians which are evolved adiabatically through a discretized parameter space, and moreover represent interacting many-body wave functions. Because matrix product states transform under a projective representation, evaluating the Berry curvature on a closed loop through parameter space is not sufficient to fix all the gauge degrees of freedom. To obtain a gauge-invariant real quantity, the higher-dimensional Berry curvature is evaluated on small tetrahedra in parameter space. Numerical calculations confirm that the higher Berry curvature varies continuously throughout an adiabatic evolution and becomes quantized over a closed 3-dimensional parameter space. I demonstrate that the procedure works for fermions too, showing the correspondence of the higher invariant and the second Chern number for the free-fermion four-dimensional topological insulator. Lastly, I add many-body interactions, which have a nontrivial effect on the higher Berry curvature, and can lead to topological phase transitions.

See the Physics Department Calendar for future seminars.

Erickson, Schorr and Urban named NSF Grad Research Fellows

Ho, Redkar and Trevino also honored by the National Science Foundation

Brown School of Engineering graduate student Eva Erickson, senior Angelina Schorr and alumnus Joseph Urban ’21 have each been awarded a three-year fellowship in the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship Program (NSF GRFP). Additionally, Jason Ho ’22, and current graduate students Nikita Redkar and Avery Trevino were tabbed honorable mention candidates for the fellowship. 

The NSF GRFP helps ensure the vitality of the human resource base of science and engineering in the United States and reinforces its diversity. The program recognizes and supports outstanding graduate students in NSF-supported STEM disciplines who are pursuing research-based masters and doctoral degrees at accredited United States institutions. NSF Fellows are anticipated to become knowledge experts who can contribute significantly to research, teaching, and innovations in science and engineering. These individuals are crucial to maintaining and advancing the nation’s technological infrastructure and national security as well as contributing to the economic well-being of society at large.

Erickson is a second-year doctoral student in Professor Kenny Breuer’s fluids and thermal sciences lab, where she has transitioned from biomechanics to bio-inspired robotics, conducting research on vortex induced vibrations of elastically mounted bluff bodies in unsteady vortex wakes. Specifically, she is looking at how seal whisker inspired geometries can suppress vortex induced vibrations to act as underwater sensors. Erickson earned her bachelor of science degree in physics from Georgia Tech in 2022, where she  concentrated in Physics of Living Systems, studying centipede locomotion on complex terrains.

Schorr is completing a senior honors thesis in Howard M. Reisman ’76, P’09 Assistant Professor of Engineering Vikas Srivastava’s lab, evaluating cancer and healthy cell response to chemical stimuli in engineered tumor microenvironments. Previously, she was a researcher on a project that entailed increasing chemotherapeutic efficacy using pH-modulating and chemotherapeutic-releasing hydrogels, and co-authored a paper on this subject that was published in September 2023. Schorr was the recipient of Brown Engineering’s Neal B. Mitchell ’58 Systems Thinking Project Award, which helped fund the project over the summer of 2022. She then participated in the MIT Summer Research Program for the summer of 2023, working in the lab of Anders Sejr Hansen on a project related to genetic promoter characterization. After graduation, she will remain at Brown to begin her doctoral work with Assistant Professor Theresa Raimondo on RNA-lipid nanoparticles to modulate immunity.

Urban is currently working as a microfluidic systems engineer at Draper, where he has helped develop technologies used for multiplexed pathogen detection, microfluidic blood oxygenation, implantable device manufacturing, and CAR T-cell bioprocessing. While at Brown, he received his undergraduate degree in biomedical engineering with honors as a member of Professor Eric Darling’s lab. There, he investigated the use of hyper-compliant microparticles as drug delivery vehicles for long-term intravenous release, and was awarded the Domenico A. Ionata ’26 award for creativity in executing his thesis project. This fall, he will attend Boston University to obtain his Ph.D. in biomedical engineering, where he plans to pursue interdisciplinary research that applies systems biology principles and synthetic biology techniques to program the behavior of lab-grown tissues.

Ho, who received an honorable mention for the prestigious award, is currently in graduate school at the University of Texas at Austin. He is studying computer architecture, with a focus on neuromorphic (brain-inspired) machine learning hardware, examining the co-design of hybrid analog-digital neuromorphic (brain-like) computing systems that combine the energy efficiency of analog computing systems with the scalability of digital computing blocks. While at Brown, he did research with Associate Professor Jacob Rosenstein and Professor Sherief Reda.

Honorable mention awardee Redkar is a first year Ph.D. student in Yue Qi’s Materials Simulation for Clean Energy laboratory. Her undergraduate degree from UC Berkeley was in chemical engineering with chemistry and mathematics minors. At Brown, Redkar conducts research using computational methods to develop better battery technology with Professor Yue Qi. 

Trevino, also named an honorable mention selection, is a second year Ph.D. student . He earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, with an emphasis in applied math and physics, from UC Berkeley, and did undergraduate research at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory studying stochastic mesoscale systems and computational fluid dynamics. At Brown, he conducts research in biological flows, working with Professor Roberto Zenit and serves as a teaching assistant to several popular engineering undergraduate courses. 

In all, 31 Brown students and alumni in science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields were chosen to receive tuition support and a stipend as promising young STEM leaders.

Biophysics PhD

The Biophysics Graduate Group is an interdisciplinary PhD program hosted by the California Institute for the Biosciences (QB3). Our program trains graduate students for careers at the interface of the biological and physical sciences. This interdisciplinary group provides an opportunity for interested students to receive training leading to the PhD in Biophysics. Approximately 60 faculty members are affiliated with the Biophysics Group, spanning over a dozen departments and groups at UC Berkeley. Students may work under the supervision of any faculty member belonging to the group.

Students interested in pursuing graduate work in biophysics typically acquire undergraduate training in one of the basic physical or biological sciences and during the first two years at UC Berkeley take self-selected courses in topics such as biology, physics, and chemistry to fill in any gaps in foundational knowledge.

Contact Info

[email protected]

574 Stanley Hall

Berkeley, CA 94720

At a Glance

Department(s)

Biophysics Graduate Group

Admit Term(s)

Application Deadline

November 30, 2023

Degree Type(s)

Doctoral / PhD

Degree Awarded

GRE Requirements