Physics and Geology share common approaches and methodologies, both in research and teaching, mainly relying on experimental techniques, data analysis, and complex models development. The Department of Physics and Geology of the University of Perugia is intrinsically characterized by these commonalities between the two disciplines, which represent its main added value. The Department was founded in 2013, when the former Physics and Earth Science Departments merged together, joining their well-established and ancient scientific traditions.
Today, integrating complementary skills and competences in all research stages, from the fundamental research to the technology transfer opportunities, represents the main challenge, with a special focus on the attempt to apply Physics methodologies to Geology issues.
The Department combines sophisticated laboratory equipment and high-level computational skills, thus providing an efficient and up-to-date research infrastructure, suitable for research and advanced training needs. Moreover, special attention is paid to interdisciplinary and inter-sectoral research activities, according to the traditional research collaborations of our researchers with the most advanced national and international research centers and agencies, e.g. CERN, NASA, ESA, ESRF, INGV, the Italian Antarctic Research base and the Italian National Crisis Department (Protezione Civile). In particular, the Department hosts the Perugia section of the Italian Institute for Nuclear Physics (INFN), developing common interest research programs in the field fundamental interactions Physics, and a group of researchers from the Italian National Research Council (CNR).
Fundamental research is related to Particle, High Energy and Condensed Matter Physics, Astrophysics, Geology and Geophysics, Cristallography and Paleoanthropology. As for applied research activities, they mainly focus on environmental studies, sustainable finding and use of geological resources, climate risks assessment, monitoring and mitigation, adaptation of space technologies to environmental challenges, development and testing of sensors and devices to be used in extreme conditions. Special support is provided to research activities with high technology transfer potential, especially concerning nanotechnologies and advanced materials.
The Department offers five courses:
- Undergraduate course in Physics
- Undergraduate course in Geology
- Graduate course in Physics
- Graduate course in Geology
- A specific graduate course in Petroleum Geology, organized in collaboration with Eni (the national Oil Company), which includes many traineeship and professional training opportunities. In addition, a PhD in Science and technology for Physics and Geology is also available, allowing PhD students to develop interdisciplinary research.