The LASCALA Erasmus Mundus Programme in Large Scale Accelerators and Lasers is a prestigious two-year Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s designed for students aiming to become leading researchers, engineers, and project managers in the fields of accelerator physics, high-power lasers, laser–plasma interaction, and gravitational wave technologies. Delivered entirely in English by a consortium of world-renowned European universities, the programme combines advanced theoretical training with practical immersion at large-scale research facilities and intensive schools, ensuring strong scientific and transferable skills.
LASCALA Erasmus Mundus equips graduates with deep expertise across the most innovative areas of modern physics and engineering linked to large scientific infrastructures. Its international mobility model encourages academic and cultural exchange while fostering readiness for doctoral research or high-impact professional roles in academia, industry, and research organizations worldwide.
Key Details of the LASCALA Erasmus Mundus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | LASCALA Erasmus Mundus Programme in Large Scale Accelerators and Lasers |
| Duration | 2 academic years (120 ECTS) |
| Degree Type | Joint Master’s Degree |
| Language of Instruction | English |
| Study Model | Year 1 at Université Paris-Saclay or Universidad de Salamanca, Year 2 at partner universities for specialization |
| Scholarship Type | Erasmus+ Joint Master Funding, Paris-Saclay Scholarships, Partial Scholarships |
| Academic Focus | Accelerator Physics, High Power Lasers, Laser-Plasma Interaction, Gravitational Wave Technologies |
Project Status and Erasmus+ Funding Information
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Status | Ongoing |
| Start Date | 01 September 2025 |
| End Date | 31 October 2031 |
| Action Type | Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree (EMJM) |
Universities and Countries Involved in LASCALA Erasmus Mundus
| University | Country |
|---|---|
| Université Paris-Saclay | France |
| Università di Roma La Sapienza | Italy |
| Universidad de Salamanca | Spain |
| Lunds Universitet | Sweden |
Programme Structure
| Year | Location | Academic Components |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Université Paris-Saclay or Universidad de Salamanca | Core modules in physics fundamentals, methods, and introductory specialization paths |
| Year 2 | Partner universities (Sapienza, Lund, Salamanca, Paris-Saclay combinations) | Advanced specialization modules and thematic training + Master thesis/internship |
| Optional Mobility | Additional research term | Winter/Winter and Summer Schools; professional internships |
Research and Industry Links
The LASCALA Erasmus Mundus programme maintains strong research and industry connections, collaborating with leading large-scale facilities and innovation hubs across Europe and beyond, including Synchrotron SOLEIL, APOLLON Petawatt Laser, MAX IV Synchrotron, ELI-ALPS, HUN-REN Research Centre, and companies like Thales accelerator RF department. This integration enriches students’ practical experience and bridges the academic–industry divide.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the LASCALA Erasmus Mundus must meet the following criteria:
- Bachelor’s degree (180 ECTS or equivalent) in Physics, Engineering, Optics, Photonics, or related fields by the time of application submission
- Strong academic records in physics or closely related disciplines
- Proof of English language proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent)
- Motivation for international research and workforce mobility
- Relevant academic recommendations and research interest
Required Documents
- Bachelor’s degree certificate and official academic transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter
- Passport or national ID page
- Reference contact details and referee-submitted recommendation letters
- Any additional documents required by the consortium
How to Apply – Step-By-Step
- Visit the official LASCALA website and access the online application portal
- Complete personal, academic, and background details
- Upload all required PDF documents in English
- Submit referee contact information for recommendation uploads
- Review the application carefully
- Submit before the published deadline
- If shortlisted, prepare for selection follow-up as indicated by the consortium
Application Timeline 2025 and 2026 Intake
| Stage | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | October |
| Application Deadline | May |
| Selection and Review | June |
| Final Results Notification | June-July |
| Programme Start | Early September |
Scholarship Benefits for LASCALA Erasmus Mundus Applicants
- Comprehensive Erasmus+ Joint Master’s Funding, including tuition fee waivers and monthly subsistence stipends (~€1,400 per month for 24 months)
- Paris-Saclay Scholarships (approximately €20,000 total) for eligible students
- Partial scholarships and additional support for individual special needs
- Travel, visa, and installation cost coverage under Erasmus+
- Access to international research communities, seminars, and network opportunities
Guidance for a Strong Application
- Present a clear academic motivation for physics and interdisciplinary research
- Emphasise international research interest and mobility readiness
- Provide detailed physics-relevant academic achievements
- Include high-quality recommendation letters
- Demonstrate proficiency in English and research communication
Alumni Experience
Graduates from the LASCALA Erasmus Mundus programme report high employability and academic continuation, with the majority entering PhD programmes across Europe and others securing engineering and research roles shortly after graduation. The programme’s international exposure and research-intensive structure are often cited as key accelerators of professional growth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the LASCALA Erasmus Mundus Program?
The LASCALA Erasmus Mundus Program is a two-year Master’s in Large Scale Accelerators and Lasers, designed to train students in accelerator physics, high-power lasers, and laser–plasma interactions.
Who can apply for the LASCALA Erasmus Mundus Program?
Applicants to the LASCALA Erasmus Mundus Program must hold a Bachelor’s degree (or be in the final year) in Physics, Engineering, Photonics, or a related field, and demonstrate English language proficiency.
What funding is available through the LASCALA Erasmus Mundus Program?
Students admitted to the LASCALA Erasmus Mundus Program may receive Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s scholarships, which typically cover tuition, travel costs, and a monthly living allowance.
What career opportunities are available after completing the LASCALA Erasmus Mundus Program?
Graduates of the LASCALA Program are prepared for careers in research centers, accelerator and laser facilities, advanced industry roles, or doctoral studies worldwide.
How can I apply for the LASCALA Erasmus Mundus Program?
Applications for the LASCALA Erasmus Mundus Program must be submitted online with required documents such as CV, transcripts, motivation letter, English proficiency proof, and recommendation letters.
