Molecular Sciences

The Master's specialisation Physical Chemistry aims at fundamentally unravelling the properties of molecules and materials, trying to find answers by developing theory and applying physical set-ups.

Most chemical research involves synthesis and characterisation of new molecules. Basically, a trial and error approach. This specialisation goes one step further: it aims to fundamentally unravel the properties of molecules and materials. We try to find answers by developing theory and applying physical set-ups for advanced spectroscopic experiments, involving high magnetic fields, free-electron lasers, scanning probe microscopes, nuclear magnetic resonance, etc.

You will get an in-depth understanding of the fundamental behaviour of molecules and materials aiming to discover novel functionalities. Thanks to the many research facilities located on the Radboud campus, you’ll be able to perform advanced spectroscopic experiments on site. Besides experimental work it is possible to focus on the theoretical aspects of the research. You can follow your personal interests; work on bio(mimetic) molecules whereas others might prefer energy materials. It’s also possible to specialise in the development of new spectroscopic methods.

In Science, Management and Innovation you will gain expertise in societal challenges, work on the Sustainable Development Goals and learn the ability to speak the language of policy and business.

A unique programme in which you further develop your knowledge in your scientific field in the first year and then learn to apply your science-based background to a business or policy question in your second year.

The Science, Management and Innovation Master’s specialisation allows you to apply your science background to a societal theme and enables you to make a difference in your future field of work. You graduate in your original Master’s discipline but are also taught how innovation is managed in companies, how policy is made in government, and discuss several approaches to today’s societal challenges.

You will improve your ability to cooperate with actors from other disciplines. This combination of science, policy and business, and the capability to work in multi-disciplinary teams is in high demand, not only in companies but also in non-profit organisations and the public sector. You will create a unique profile with your disciplinary background and combine this with one of the focus track areas related to the sustainable development goals. These are Health, Climate & Energy, Green Industries & IT, or Biodiversity.

Science and technology fundamentally influence society. The reverse is also true: society shapes the ways in which science and technology evolve. You become a critical researcher and bridge-builder.

Science and technology fundamentally influence society. The reverse is also true: society shapes the ways in which science and technology evolve. You become a critical researcher and bridge-builder.

In the specialisation, you will learn how science and society influence each other, how the various social and scientific actors interact and how implicit assumptions, values, and interests of these actors can be made visible and open to discussion. You will also learn under which circumstances tensions arise between science and society, how we can understand these tensions and what solutions are possible.

In that process, you acquire skills in critical thinking, social research, and the analysis of media and culture. At the end, you will be a biologist, chemist, mathematician, etc. that understands the philosophical assumptions as well as political and social values in scientific developments. You will be able to make scientists familiar with societal perceptions, and to contribute to science-related consultancy for governments, businesses, or citizen groups.