Research at the Physics and Astronomy department is focused around three main themes:
- Physics of Life
- Physics of Energy
- Fundamental Physics
The department is involved in teaching in the programs Physics and Astronomy (joint degree with the University of Amsterdam), Science Business and Innovation, Medical Natural Sciences (all three BSc and MSc), and the BSc program in Mechanical Engineering (together with University of Twente).
Furthermore, the department has a strong track record in valorization of its research, including translational research to the clinic - often together with the Amsterdam UMC, location VUmc (on campus) and location AMC - collaborations with industry (e.g. ARCNL), and a thriving startup scene.