Master Physique fondamentale et applications (M2) - Parcours : Soft Matter Physics and Engineering

Soft matter refers to a broad class of systems whose physical and mechanical properties lie between those of solids and liquids. These include macromolecules (polymers in solution or melt, liquid crystals), suspensions and dispersions (colloids, emulsions, foams, immersed granular materials), dry granular media, as well as self-assembled fluids (surfactant-based systems). Their applications are widespread across various fields, including the food industry, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, materials, construction, coatings, geophysics, environmental remediation, extraction, and storage.

The study of these systems requires specific theoretical and practical skills, which are often only partially addressed in traditional academic curricula (universities and engineering schools).

The program is jointly delivered by leading academic researchers (Université Paris Cité , Sorbonne University, ESPCI, CNRS) and industrial experts (IFPEN, Saint-Gobain, L’Oréal, Tarkett, etc.). This collaboration ensures high-level training aligned with industry needs and facilitates access to skilled and motivated young engineers.

The Master’s year consists of a first semester combining practical, methodological, and theoretical coursework, followed by a full-time internship. Numerous partner companies contribute to teaching and/or host interns across a wide range of sectors.

The Master’s curriculum is structured around five major topics explored within the framework of soft matter physics:

1. Mechanics 2. Rheology 3. Interface and Dispersion Physicochemistry 4. Microfluidics and Microfabrication 5. Granular Materials

For each topic, the fundamental concepts are introduced through lectures, tutorials, and laboratory sessions. These scientific foundations are then connected to industrial applications through dedicated teaching units and specialized seminars. Core concepts specific to each discipline are reviewed during the first sessions to ensure that all students share a common scientific background.

These scientific and technical courses are complemented by teaching units designed to facilitate students’ professional integration, particularly through advanced English training covering both technical communication and everyday language skills.