Institutionen för teknisk fysik

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A researcher in protective gear working with a microscope in a laboratory.

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

Nine people stand on an indoor metal balcony in smart casual clothes, posing for a group photo.

Aalto University’s newest quantum hardware spinout announces €2.8M seed funding round

Coherence Quantum is the latest startup to spin out of Aalto University’s Department of Applied Physics, with vital support stemming from OtaNano research infrastructure enabling early success.

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Smiling man in a dark suit and glasses stands by a wooden staircase in a bright hallway

Professor Anton Zasedatelev awarded Väisälä grant to study how large particles behave near quantum limit

A better understanding of how macroscopic objects behave could unlock ultra-precise sensors or even help determine if gravity is quantum mechanical.

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Close-up of a complex gold-coloured machine with various wires and connectors.

What does ‘quantum’ mean?

Two quantum researchers at Aalto University explain how the seemingly impossible becomes a part of everyday reality.

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Three rising Aalto University researchers secure highly sought-after EU funding

In their research projects, Dominik Baumann, Tero Mäkinen and Owies Wani develop the training of reinforcement learning agents, a better understanding of the physics of material damage and electrolyte structures for energy storage.

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Professor Jukka Pekola stood in a hallway smiling at the camera

Aalto Distinguished Professor Jukka Pekola’s message: Basic research is at the heart of progress

Department of Applied Physics Professor Jukka Pekola was appointed Aalto Distinguished Professor on September 1, 2026.

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Associate Professor Andrea Sand appointed new head of applied physics department

Sand, a computational materials physics expert, is supported by new vice heads for research and education. All started their work on September 1, 2026.

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