Foundational Lecture Series on Theoretical Physics 2026
The IMSc Foundation Series on Theoretical Physics is a week-long program organized by the Outreach Team at the Institute of Mathematical Sciences (IMSc), Chennai. The 2026 edition, scheduled from June 1 to 5, will offer a set of intensive short courses designed to introduce students to advanced topics in theoretical physics. The theme for 2026 edition is "Symmetries, Quantum Mechanics and Quantum Information".
This program is intended for early-stage physics students from Chennai and nearby regions. It aims to bridge the gap between standard university coursework and contemporary research by presenting core Master’s-level topics from a research-oriented perspective.
The courses will be delivered by faculty members of IMSc, providing participants with exposure to current approaches and developments in theoretical physics. Through these lectures, students will gain deeper conceptual understanding and insight into how advanced topics are explored in modern research.
The initiative seeks to encourage motivated students to pursue higher studies and careers in theoretical physics and related areas.
Applications are open to students who have completed their Bachelor’s degree, as well as those who have completed the first year of their Master’s program in 2026. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply.
Registration
Application form is closed now.
Speakers and Topics
- M. V. N. Murthy, IMSc Chennai [Retd.] | Group Theory: From concrete to abstract!
- V. Ravindran, IMSc Chennai | Basics of Quantum Mechanics
- Sibasish Ghosh, IMSc Chennai | Quantum Information Theory
Venue
The event will take place at IMSc Campus. Click here for directions: Reaching IMSc
Schedule
| Timings | June 1 | June 2 | June 3 | June 4 | June 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 09:30 am - 10:45 am | Sibasish Ghosh | Sibasish Ghosh | Sibasish Ghosh | Sibasish Ghosh | Sibasish Ghosh |
| 11:00 am - 11:30 am | Tea | Tea | Tea | Tea | Tea |
| 11:30 am - 12:45 pm | M. V. N. Murthy | M. V. N. Murthy | M. V. N. Murthy | M. V. N. Murthy | M. V. N. Murthy |
| 01:00 pm - 02:30 pm | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch | Lunch |
| 02:30 pm - 03:45 pm | V. Ravindran | V. Ravindran | V. Ravindran | V. Ravindran | V. Ravindran |
| 04:00 pm - 04:30 pm | Tea | Tea | Tea | Tea | Tea |
| 04:30 pm - 05:30 pm | Tutorials | Sibasish Ghosh (Colloquium) | Tutorials |
Lecture Notes
Symmetries and Groups in Quantum Mechanics From Concrete to abstract!
Colloquium - Quantum Battery: Science Fiction or Reality by Sibasish Ghosh
Date and Time: 17:00 - 18:00, 3 June 2026
Venue: Ramanujan Auditorium, IMSc






