Department of Physics

Welcome to the Department of Physics, BITS Pilani

Campus

Pilani Campus

Department Contact Details

Contact Name

Prof. Manjuladevi V

Designation

Head, Department of Physics

Phone

+91-1596-25-5657

Fax

+91-1596-244183

manjula@pilani.bits-pilani.ac.in

Address

Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani - 333031 (Rajasthan) India

Department E-mail

Department Summary

Welcome to the Department of Physics at BITS Pilani. We have faculty with interests ranging from experimental to theoretical aspects of condensed matter physics, optics, spectroscopy, image processing, field theory, and quantum computation. The department is supported by UGC-DRS-SAP and DST-FIST. Apart from teaching physics courses and guiding students in their projects and theses, faculty members actively engage in regular seminars and discussion forums and popular talks. Regular visits of experts and scholars from Academia and industry for technical and popular talks add to the vibrant academic culture of sharing and collaboration. The students of the Physics Club organise Physics Week as part of APOGEE (a technical festival of the institute), and those of the Astronomy club conduct periodic observation sessions

The Faculty of Physics at BITS Pilani is a vibrant campus of educational distinction and research ingenuity. Strongly focused on both instruction and investigation, the faculty provides an enriched setting for students to investigate the basic concepts of physics while acquiring functional skills to apply in the real world. The faculty are not only dedicated teachers but also research-active, advancing knowledge in various areas. The curriculum is integrated to balance theory and practice with experiments, aiming to prepare students for a wide range of careers in academia, research, and industry.

Our faculty department specializes in various cutting-edge fields in physics, such as condensed matter physics, optics, spectroscopy, image processing, field theory, and quantum computation. Whether it is deciphering the attributes of new materials or venturing into the abstract dimensions of quantum mechanics, the department is always at the cutting edge of scientific investigation. Research efforts are heavily backed by elite funding bodies like the University Grants Commission under the DRS-SAP initiative and the Department of Science and Technology via the FIST program. These initiatives offer facilities crucial for sustained academic productivity and innovativeness.

In addition to classroom instruction, the department has a strong interest in student mentoring and joint research. Faculty members engage undergraduate and postgraduate students regularly in independent research studies, thus exposing them to important research experience in the laboratory techniques, writing, and critical thinking. To further enhance the intellectual environment, the department holds regular seminars, workshops, and science popular talks. These offer the students exposure to the upcoming themes and provide an opportunity to engage with top scientists and inventors in the field.

An open and collaborative mindset characterizes the academic atmosphere of the Physics Department. We invite renowned specialists from top-notch institutes and the industry from India and elsewhere regularly to disseminate knowledge and share insights. These exchanges enrich the learning process as well as foster interdisciplinary discussions and possible collaborations. Consequently, the department continues to be an active, concept-oriented place where students and faculty immerse themselves in the secrets of the physical world while making valuable contributions to the scientific community.

Message from Head of Department (HOD)

Welcome to BITS Pilani's Department of Physics! We take great pride in our dynamic academic life, driven by a dedicated faculty, indefatigable students, and a common passion for the quest for knowledge. With a tradition of excellence as its cornerstone, the department has long been attuned to the increasing requirements of the scientific community. Our vision is to cultivate intellectual curiosity and critical thinking among all who enter our doors. We are committed to creating a community in which learning is rigorous and joyful and where students can cultivate an abiding appreciation for the complexity and beauty of the physical world.

At the core of our department is a firm academic foundation based on well-organized coursework, experiential learning, and creative teaching methods. Our faculty brings their varied experience into the classroom and labs, so that students are introduced to both traditional concepts and frontier areas of physics. Topics like quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, electrodynamics, and solid-state physics are presented with clarity and relevance to everyday life. Students are also encouraged to question concepts, have good discussions, and explore interdisciplinary methods—gaining confidence and a greater appreciation of science.

Research is an integral part of our department's identity. We are actively involved in a broad spectrum of research fields, such as but not limited to condensed matter physics, optics, spectroscopy, image processing, quantum computing, and theoretical physics. Research groups led by faculty members interact frequently with national and international institutions, incorporating emerging developments into the academic mainstream. Undergraduate and postgraduate students are also urged to participate in research work early on in their academic pursuit, where they can gain hands-on experience in scientific communication, problem-solving, and critical analysis. Our modern research facilities and laboratories provide a perfect platform for innovation and discovery.

Whether you are a prospective student, visiting scholar, or simply someone interested in physics, we warmly encourage you to investigate what our department has to share. We believe in a culture of inquiry and approachability, where every question counts and every experiment is a step towards knowing nature more profoundly. Through public lectures, collaborative projects, seminars, and outreach activities, we seek to create a community that prizes curiosity, creativity, and knowledge. Join us as we embark on our thrilling mission of exploring the universe's wonders—one discovery, one idea, and one question at a time.

Department Responsibilities

The Department of Physics at BITS Pilani is strongly dedicated to providing quality education both at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Our pedagogical focus is on clarity of course concepts, analytical thinking, and practical relevance. The faculty creates and offers a variety of physics courses ranging from classical and modern areas, from mechanics, electrodynamics, and thermodynamics to quantum mechanics and advanced theoretical models. The syllabus is regularly revised to keep pace with new developments in the discipline to ensure that students are suitably equipped for careers in academia, research, or industry. Class lectures are supplemented by demonstrations, simulations, and collaborative problem-solving to stimulate greater participation and insight.

Mentoring students through research-based learning is an essential part of our pedagogy. Student projects and theses are actively guided by members of the faculty staff in both theoretical and experimental studies. These projects not only allow students to delve into their particular area of interest but also hone critical research skills like scientific inquiry, data analysis, and academic writing. Whether a short-term undergraduate or an in-depth postgraduate thesis, our department provides each student with individual mentorship to create meaningful, high-quality output. This experiential learning often leads to students presenting their results at conferences or publishing in peer-reviewed journals.

Aside from formal studies, the department takes an active role in academic enrichment by conducting seminars, popular science lectures, and casual discussion sessions. These activities serve as a venue for students and teachers to interact with new concepts, new research, and ongoing issues in the world of science. Our speaker series and seminar sessions regularly host distinguished scientists and industry leaders, generating interesting discussions and introducing students to a wide range of views outside of class. Open discussion periods also facilitate peer learning and collaborative approaches, fostering an active intellectual community in the department.

To enhance a spirit of scientific interest and outreach, the department hosts stimulating activities like Physics Week, stargazing events, and observation sessions. These events mark the beauty of physics and seek to engage the academic community with the general public. Through interdisciplinary and collaborative research, the department also enhances its connection to other scientific fields and institutions. Our faculty and students often collaborate on collective projects within or outside the departments, promoting innovation and inter-disciplinary understanding. This integral strategy not only enriches the university experience but also enhances the reach of our scientific output.

Academic Programs Offered

M.Sc.(Physics)

Ph.D – Physics

Research & Innovation

Preferred Research Areas

Condensed Matter Physics is a highly active and varied research field in the Department of Physics at BITS Pilani. It concerns itself with studying the physical properties of matter in its solid and liquid phases. Our researchers and faculty members study the behavior of electrons, atoms, and molecules in condensed phases and the phenomena of superconductivity, magnetism, phase transitions, and nanomaterials. The research in this area not only enhances our theoretical knowledge of materials but also has immediate technological applications in the invention of new technologies, such as semiconductors, sensors, and energy storage devices. With state-of-the-art laboratories and collaborative research work, students are invited to engage in experimental and computational research to provide them with hands-on experience.

Optics and Spectroscopy constitute a major area of emphasis in the department, providing a window into the interaction between matter and light. Scientists investigate a broad variety of subjects, from the basic principles of the propagation of light and interference to the sophisticated methods of laser-based spectroscopy and nonlinear optics. Spectroscopic techniques are applied to study the electronic and structural properties of atoms, molecules, and materials to allow for applications in medicine, environmental monitoring, and material science. Both the theoretical tools and experimental apparatus utilized in this intriguing field are encountered through dedicated labs and interdepartmental collaborations by students.

Quantum Computation is a new and rapidly expanding discipline at the interface of physics, mathematics, and computer science. In BITS Pilani, the department is involved in researching the foundations of quantum mechanics that allow for quantum computing, e.g., superposition, entanglement, and quantum gates. Professors lead students to see how these concepts can be used to construct quantum algorithms and solve difficult problems that are not accessible to classical computers. This research area is especially interesting because of the potential to transform industries such as cryptography, optimization, and machine learning, and the department wants to be at the forefront of this technological revolution.

Field Theory and Image Processing are also part of the department's interdisciplinary research portfolio. Field Theory, a foundation of theoretical physics, seeks to characterize the dynamics of particles and forces in spacetime. Researchers examine quantum field theory and classical field models to gain insights into key issues of particle physics, cosmology, and gauge theories. Image Processing, on the other hand, uses mathematical and computational methods to analyze visual information. It is used in applications from medical imaging and remote sensing to machine vision and artificial intelligence. By providing students with the ability to work on theoretical models as well as actual algorithms, the department gives students the power to make contributions to areas essential for contemporary science and technology.

Ongoing Research Projects

The faculty members of the Department of Physics at BITS Pilani are actively engaged in a wide range of research projects funded by prominent national agencies such as the Department of Science and Technology (DST), University Grants Commission (UGC), and the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB). These funding bodies support innovative research that aligns with national scientific priorities and global technological advancements. By securing competitive grants, our faculty demonstrate the department's strong research capabilities and its commitment to contributing to the broader scientific community.

One of the major areas of focus is quantum physics, which explores the fundamental behavior of matter and energy at the smallest scales. Faculty-led research in this domain includes quantum entanglement, quantum information theory, and quantum simulation. These studies aim to unravel the complex principles governing quantum systems, with potential applications in quantum computing, secure communication, and advanced sensing technologies. Such cutting-edge work is not only intellectually stimulating but also paves the way for next-generation technologies that could transform various industries.

Another significant research area is the development and characterization of advanced materials. Faculty members investigate novel materials with unique electrical, magnetic, and optical properties, which are essential for the advancement of nanotechnology, energy-efficient devices, and sustainable materials. Studies include work on thin films, two-dimensional materials, superconductors, and metamaterials. These projects often involve interdisciplinary collaborations, blending physics with materials science, chemistry, and engineering to create functional materials with real-world applications.

In addition, our faculty conducts in-depth studies in optical systems and computational physics. Research in optical systems spans the design and analysis of lasers, fiber optics, and nonlinear optical devices, with implications in communications, medical technologies, and precision instrumentation. Computational physics, on the other hand, leverages advanced algorithms and simulations to model complex physical systems that are difficult to study experimentally. This includes topics like molecular dynamics, statistical mechanics, and electronic structure calculations. Together, these research efforts reflect the department’s broad expertise and its role in advancing both theoretical knowledge and practical innovations.

Research Scholars

The Department of Physics at BITS Pilani is host to a lively community of research scholars who are seeking doctoral and postgraduate research. These scholars are a critical component of the department's teaching and research environment and engage closely with the faculty on a wide variety of subjects, ranging from theoretical, experimental, and computational physics. With the availability of state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, computational facilities, and the support of a robust academic community, the department offers an exciting learning environment for students to engage in advanced scientific research. Their research helps in furthering our understanding of intricate physical phenomena and pushing the frontiers of contemporary science.

Research is prompted at the PhD and postgraduate levels from the initial stages of their academic careers. With guidance from skilled mentors, they tackle difficult problems, create experiments or simulations, and construct novel theoretical models. This active learning not only enhances their competence but also promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific depth. Ongoing interaction with faculty and students through research meetings, journal clubs, and internal presentations provides ongoing academic development and a culture of intellectual camaraderie.

One of the major highlights of the scholars' scholarly progress is being actively engaged in the publication of research articles in scholarly national and international journals. These publications are a determinant of the quality and relevance of their work and a milestone in their scholarly careers. The students are also encouraged to share their work at conferences, workshops, and symposia, where they get exposed to the broader scientific community, learn from feedback, and mingle with others from other institutions. Attending these events is critical in developing their confidence, communication skills, and international perspective.

Beyond their research endeavors, the scholars also make meaningful contributions to the department's ongoing studies. Whether under a funded proposal or collaborative project, they inject vitality, innovation, and new ways of thinking into the research being conducted. Their presence guarantees that departmental research stays vibrant and adaptive to emerging trends in the discipline. By sponsoring and developing such scholars, the Department of Physics remains true to its mission of academic excellence, frontier research, and the building of science and technology leaders.

Patents & Innovations

The Department of Physics at BITS Pilani is not only known for its academic excellence and rigorous research but also for its growing contributions to innovation and technology development. Faculty members and researchers regularly engage in projects that go beyond theoretical understanding, aiming to solve real-world problems through scientific innovation. This practical, application-oriented approach has often resulted in novel ideas with potential for commercial or societal use. Encouraging creativity and experimentation, the department fosters a research culture where breakthrough discoveries are not only possible but actively pursued.

One of the most promising areas for innovation within the department is optics, where ongoing research into lasers, fiber optics, imaging systems, and light-matter interaction has led to the development of unique optical devices and processes. These innovations have applications in fields such as communication technology, medical diagnostics, environmental sensing, and precision instrumentation. Faculty members working in optics are continually exploring how to translate complex physical concepts into tools and technologies that can be patented and potentially commercialized, thereby making a tangible impact beyond the laboratory.

Materials science is another field where the department’s research efforts have yielded notable advances. Projects involving the synthesis, characterization, and modification of new materials, such as thin films, nanostructures, and metamaterials, often result in properties that can be harnessed for industrial or technological use. Whether it is developing energy-efficient materials, sensors, or next-generation coatings, the department’s work often reaches the level of innovation where filing for patents becomes a natural next step. These contributions not only help solve contemporary challenges but also position the department as a hub for applied physics and technological advancement.

The journey from research to patenting is actively supported by the institutional ecosystem, which includes innovation cells, legal support, and industry partnerships. Faculty and students are encouraged to document their novel ideas and go through the formal process of intellectual property protection. Through workshops, guidance sessions, and collaboration with technology transfer offices, the department ensures that promising innovations are not left unrecognized. This growing emphasis on patentable research reflects the department’s evolving vision—one that integrates high-level academic inquiry with practical solutions that serve society and stimulate further technological growth

Publications & Journals

The Department of Physics at BITS Pilani places a strong emphasis on research dissemination through publications in reputed national and international journals. Faculty members and research scholars alike are actively involved in advancing scientific knowledge through their work, which spans a wide spectrum of topics—from fundamental physics to applied technologies. Publishing in peer-reviewed journals not only affirms the quality and originality of their research but also ensures that their contributions are recognized and accessible within the global academic and scientific community. These efforts reflect the department’s commitment to maintaining high standards of scholarship and research excellence.

Our faculty members, with their deep expertise and innovative approaches, lead research projects that often result in significant scientific findings. These are regularly documented and published in high-impact journals, many of which are widely read and cited by physicists and interdisciplinary researchers across the world. The topics covered in these publications range from quantum physics, materials science, and optics to theoretical modeling and computational studies. Through these scholarly articles, our faculty not only contribute new insights to their respective fields but also shape the direction of future research and technological development.

Equally commendable is the involvement of our research students in the publication process. Doctoral and postgraduate students are encouraged to co-author papers and take the lead in presenting their findings to the academic community. This experience provides them with essential skills in scientific writing, critical analysis, and academic presentation. The process of preparing a manuscript for publication—reviewing literature, designing methodology, interpreting results, and responding to peer review—plays a key role in their development as independent researchers. It also helps them build a strong academic portfolio that supports future opportunities in academia and industry.

Publications serve not only as academic achievements but also as bridges connecting our department to the broader scientific world. By sharing their work through journals, our researchers contribute to the global dialogue in physics and related disciplines. These contributions often spark collaborations, invite citations, and lead to participation in international research networks and conferences. As a result, the Department of Physics continues to grow its reputation as a center for impactful and globally relevant research, strengthening its ties with institutions and scholars around the world.

Department of Physics

Department Summary

Message from Head of Department (HOD)

Department Responsibilities

Academic Programs Offered

Research & Innovation

Preferred Research Areas

Ongoing Research Projects

Research Scholars

Patents & Innovations

Publications & Journals

Infrastructure and Facilities

News And Events

Downloads

General Info

Additional Info

Contact info