Department of Applied Physics

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A hand with a blue vinyl glove adjusts complicated research instruments.

Who are we?

Our research focuses on materials physics, quantum technology, soft and living matter, and advanced energy solutions. Topics extend from fundamental research to important applications. The Department of Applied Physics educates future generations of research and development professionals, data specialists, technology experts, inventors and scientists for industry and society.

The department hosts the Academy of Finland Centres of Excellence Quantum Technology Finland (QTF, 2018-2025) and Life Inspired Hybrid Materials (LIBER, 2022-2029). Further quantum technologies are facilitated by InstituteQ, the national quantum institute coordinated by Aalto University since 2021.

The department is a major user of the national research infrastructure OtaNano which provides fabrication, characterisation and measurement equipment and facilities for students, scientists and high-tech businesses. The Nanomicroscopy Center and the Low Temperature Laboratory of OtaNano are critical assets for our researchers. We extensively utilise and contribute to the development of the national and international cloud and supercomputing resources and databases.

The Department also houses its own quantum computer, the AaltoQ20, for educational and research purposes. It can be accessed through FiQCI.

Top news

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Press releases Published:

Researchers measure energy below a zeptojoule–enough for a red blood cell to move a nanometer

A new method for measuring incredibly miniscule amounts of energy – less than a trillionth of a billionth of a joule – could give quantum computing and the hunt for dark matter a boost, while paving the way for counting individual photons.
Maarit Korpi-Lagg, Pekka Marttinen, Robin Ras
Appointments, University Published:

New vice deans appointed for the School of Science

Maarit Korpi-Lagg has been selected as vice dean for impact, Pekka Marttinen as vice dean for education and Robin Ras as vice dean for research.
Aalto University professor Mikko Mottonen, photo Mikko Raskinen
Awards and Recognition Published:

Mikko Möttönen selected as finalist for the European Inventor Award 2026

Möttönen is a finalist in the ‘Research’ category for developing an ultrasensitive cryogenic microwave sensor to diagnose interference in quantum computers.
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Press releases Published:

Ability to harness quantum speed gains now within sight after researchers solve massive simulation problem in a heartbeat

The use of a quantum-inspired algorithm to calculate the unworkably vast potential properties of quantum materials is an early example of how quantum technology can be used to improve itself. The discovery could have future applications in dissipationless technology, for example to mitigate data centre heating.
A white cylindrical machine with 'Aalto University' logo in an industrial setting.
Press releases Published:

Aalto University unveils AaltoQ20 – a state-of-the-art quantum computer for educating quantum talent of the future

AaltoQ20 is a unique quantum computer that researchers can also use to study quantum phenomena and develop new technology.
A conference hall filled with attendees sitting at tables, watching a presentation on a large screen.
Campus, Research & Art Published:

Physics Days 2026 gathered Finnish physicists to Aalto

The 2026 edition of the annual conference featured talks on moiré matter, women in physics and paper cuts.

Recent News

Aalto University professor Mikko Mottonen, photo Mikko Raskinen
Awards and Recognition Published:

Mikko Möttönen selected as finalist for the European Inventor Award 2026

Möttönen is a finalist in the ‘Research’ category for developing an ultrasensitive cryogenic microwave sensor to diagnose interference in quantum computers.
Maarit Korpi-Lagg, Pekka Marttinen, Robin Ras
Appointments, University Published:

New vice deans appointed for the School of Science

Maarit Korpi-Lagg has been selected as vice dean for impact, Pekka Marttinen as vice dean for education and Robin Ras as vice dean for research.
Old cream building beside modern beige block with many tall windows and a rust-coloured sculpture in front
Appointments, Cooperation Published:

Teaching and collaborating across Europe: Aalto researchers at TU Darmstadt

Hear from Aalto researchers about their experience at TU Darmstadt.
Sami Lauronen, Axel Hedman, Eero Virmavirta, Olli Latvakoski, Elina Heikkila.jpg
Awards and Recognition Published:

Awards presented for top doctoral and master’s theses at the School of Science

In 2025, there were altogether 71 doctoral and 607 master's degrees in the School of Science. In March, seven outstanding doctoral and six master's theses were awarded.

Research groups

Additional resources

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Department of Applied Physics Diversity Team

The Diversity Team of the Department of Applied Physics aims to build an inclusive, diverse and welcoming work environment

Department of Applied Physics
Life at the campus.

Careers at Aalto

Aalto University is where science and art meet technology and business. We are an international community of 20,000 bold thinkers who shape a sustainable future with education, research breakthroughs and innovative ideas and solutions. Join us in changing the world – we have many attractive career opportunities to offer.

InstituteQ

The goal at InstituteQ is to improve the readiness of Finland for the disruptive potential quantum technologies will have for society and the economy at large. By 2026, novel educational programs, growing quantum industry and eminent research directions are expected to be in full motion. The efforts of InstituteQ facilitate fundamental scientific findings, the adoption of novel technologies and the development of new commercial opportunities. The aim is to carry, implement and mutually benefit front line education, research, innovations, and infrastructures.

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InstituteQ - The Finnish Quantum Institute (external link)

InstituteQ coordinates quantum research, education, and business in Finland

QTF-hero logo

Quantum Technology Finland – The National Centre of Excellence (external link)

The national Quantum Technology Finland (QTF) Centre of Excellence brings together scientific and technological excellence and cutting-edge research infrastructures to harness quantum phenomena in solid-state-based quantum devices and applications.

A map of Finland sits on top of an artistic illustration of small-scale circuits.

Aalto University to coordinate Finnish quantum initiatives in latest national flagship programme

The flagship unites dozens of research institutions, companies, and startups in new collaborative front

News

Events

Students walking on the Aalto campus in the spring. Photo by Aalto University
Other

A! Walk

A! Walks is a summer course centered around walking-based learning, exploring Otaniemi campus and its surrounding urban–natural spaces. Rather than standalone lectures or experiments, the program is designed as a curated sequence of sensory, interdisciplinary walks, guiding participants toward experiences in coexistence, awareness, action, and futures. If successful, A! Walks may be continued during the regular semester.
Students walking on the Aalto campus in the spring. Photo by Aalto University
Other

A! Walk

A! Walks is a summer course centered around walking-based learning, exploring Otaniemi campus and its surrounding urban–natural spaces. Rather than standalone lectures or experiments, the program is designed as a curated sequence of sensory, interdisciplinary walks, guiding participants toward experiences in coexistence, awareness, action, and futures. If successful, A! Walks may be continued during the regular semester.
Students walking on the Aalto campus in the spring. Photo by Aalto University
Other

A! Walk

A! Walks is a summer course centered around walking-based learning, exploring Otaniemi campus and its surrounding urban–natural spaces. Rather than standalone lectures or experiments, the program is designed as a curated sequence of sensory, interdisciplinary walks, guiding participants toward experiences in coexistence, awareness, action, and futures. If successful, A! Walks may be continued during the regular semester.
Students walking on the Aalto campus in the spring. Photo by Aalto University
Other

A! Walk

A! Walks is a summer course centered around walking-based learning, exploring Otaniemi campus and its surrounding urban–natural spaces. Rather than standalone lectures or experiments, the program is designed as a curated sequence of sensory, interdisciplinary walks, guiding participants toward experiences in coexistence, awareness, action, and futures. If successful, A! Walks may be continued during the regular semester.
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