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Language skills
required, minimum level of B2
Programme length
Full time study for three academic years.
Study mode
Face-to-face learning
Application status
International students:
Students with Icelandic or Nordic citizenship:
Overview

  • Are you interested in how chemicals work?
  • Do you want to work in research and innovation?
  • Do you enjoy collecting data, measuring and calculating?
  • Do you want a diverse selection of courses that suit your interests?
  • Do you want to tackle diverse projects under the guidance of Iceland's leading chemists?
  • Do you want to open up future opportunities in challenging careers?

The main areas of chemistry are:

  • Organic chemistry
  • Inorganic chemistry
  • Physical chemistry
  • Computational chemistry
  • Analytical chemistry

Students spend the first year building up a strong foundation in general chemistry, physics and mathematics.

In the second year, students can choose between courses that require varying levels of mathematical competence.

In the third year, students choose restricted electives and free electives.

Course topics include:

  • Mathematical analysis
  • Probability and statistics
  • Computer programming
  • General physics
  • General chemistry
  • Chemical thermodynamics and electromagnetism
  • Physical chemistry and theoretical chemistry
  • Quantum mechanics, spectroscopy and computational chemistry
  • Analytical chemistry
  • Inorganic chemistry
  • Chemical synthesis and identification
  • Organic chemistry
  • Biochemistry

Icelandic matriculation examination or a comparable qualification including a minimum number of credits (e) in the following subjects: Mathematics 30e and science 40e of which 10e should be in physics, 10e in chemistry and 10e in biology.

Good knowledge of both Icelandic and English is indispensable. Most courses in the undergraduate program are taught in Icelandic.
Applicants for undergraduate studies must demonstrate proficiency in Icelandic that is at least level B2 according to the european language framework.
Proficiency in Icelandic can be demonstrated with an Icelandic matriculation (stúdetnspróf) exam or an assessment in Icelandic conducted by an authorized testing agency.

180 ECTS credits have to be completed for the qualification, organized as a three year programme. Courses totaling 134 ECTS are compulsory, 18-20 ECTS are restricted elective and 26-28 ECTS are elective courses from a list of courses. A research project may be part of the syllabus.

Programme structure

Check below to see how the programme is structured.

This programme does not offer specialisations.

First year | Fall
Physics 1 V (EÐL102G)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Concepts, units, scales and dimensions. Vectors. Kinematics of particles. Particle dynamics, inertia, forces and Newton's laws. Friction. Work and energy, conservation of energy. Momentum, collisions. Systems of particles, center of mass. Rotation of a rigid body. Angular momentum and moment of inertia. Statics. Gravity. Solids and fluids, Bernoulli's equation. Oscillations: Simple, damped and forced. Waves. Sound. Temperature. Ideal gas. Heat and the first law of thermodynamics. Kinetic theory of gases. Entropy and the second law of thermodynamics. Home problems: Once a week the students have to solve homeproblems on the website MasteringPhysics.

Laboratory work: Three exercises, mainly centered on mechanics, where students are trained in handling physical instruments, collecting and inspecting data. Students hand in their lab notebooks for a grade.

Note that the textbook is accessible to students via Canvas free of charge.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
First year | Fall
General Chemistry 1 (EFN108G)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The basis of the atomic theory. Stoichiometry. Types of chemical reactions and solution stoichiometry. Properties of gases. Chemical equilibrium. Acids and bases. Applications of aqueous equilibria. Chemical thermodynamics. Enthropy, free energy and equilibrium. Electrochemistry. Chemical kinetics. Physical properties of solutions.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
First year | Fall
Chemistry Laboratory 1 (EFN109G)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
3 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Molar volume of gases, thermochemistry, reaction enthalpies and Hesse's law, Rate of chemical reactions, decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, reaction reversibility and Le Chatelier's principle, determination of acid ionization constants, oxidation-reduction; electrochemistry, thermodynamics of an electrochemical cell.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Attendance required in class
First year | Fall
Introduction to Scientific Programming (EFN114G)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
3 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The goal of this course is to learn how to use the programming language Python for scientific programming. The basics of scientific computing, such as flow control with logical operators and loops, are explained. Plotting data in 1D, 2D and 3D will be taught, extracting data and changing it, evaluating sums, and how you can calculate simple problems in linear algebra (vectors and matrices). The course starts in week 6 and spans for 9 weeks of the semester. A written examination taken at a computer terminal constitutes 60% of the final mark. Projects handed in during the semester yield the other 40%.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
First year | Fall
Mathematical Analysis I (STÆ104G)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

This is a foundational course in single variable calculus. The prerequisites are high school courses on algebra, trigonometry. derivatives, and integrals. The course aims to create a foundation for understanding of subjects such as natural and physical sciences, engineering, economics, and computer science. Topics of the course include the following:

  • Real numbers.
  • Limits and continuous functions.
  • Differentiable functions, rules for derivatives, derivatives of higher order, applications of differential calculus (extremal value problems, linear approximation).
  • Transcendental functions.
  • Mean value theorem, theorems of l'Hôpital and Taylor.
  • Integration, the definite integral and rules/techniques of integration, primitives, improper integrals.
  • Fundamental theorem of calculus.
  • Applications of integral calculus: Arc length, area, volume, centroids.
  • Ordinary differential equations: First-order separable and homogeneous differential equations, first-order linear equations, second-order linear equations with constant coefficients.
  • Sequences and series, convergence tests.
  • Power series, Taylor series.
Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
First year | Fall
Linear Algebra (STÆ107G)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Basics of linear algebra over the reals.  

Subject matter: Systems of linear equations, matrices, Gauss-Jordan reduction.  Vector spaces and their subspaces.  Linearly independent sets, bases and dimension.  Linear maps, range space and nullk space.  The dot product, length and angle measures.  Volumes in higher dimension and the cross product in threedimensional space.  Flats, parametric descriptions and descriptions by equations.  Orthogonal projections and orthonormal bases.  Gram-Schmidt orthogonalization.  Determinants and inverses of matrices.  Eigenvalues, eigenvectors and diagonalization.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
First year | Spring 1
Physics 2 E (EÐL208G)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
4 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course is taught together with EÐL201G. The class is given for 8 weeks (spread over 11 week period).Topics: Charge and electric field. Gauss' law. Electric potential. Capacitors and dielectrics. Electric currents and resistance. Magnetic fields. The laws of Ampère and Faraday. Induction. Maxwell's equations. Electromagnetic waves. Reflection and refraction. Lenses and mirrors. Wave optics. Two laboratory exercises in optics.

Language of instruction: English
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
First year | Spring 1
General Chemistry 2 (EFN202G)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

This course focuses on the structure of the periodic table and properties of the elements based on their place in the periodic table. The students learn about the naturally occurring forms of the elements, isolation of the elements and common chemical reactions. Atomic theory is taught as a base for understanding the properties of the elements and their reactivity. Early theories of the structure of the hydrogen atome put forward by Bohr and their development to modern view of the atom structure are covered. The electronic structure of the atom is described, and theories describing formation of chemical bonds such as valence bond theory, VSEPR, and molecular orbital theory are used to determine structures and predict reactivity of molecules. Processes for purification of metals from their naturally occurring ores is covered as well as properties of metalloids and nonmetals. The transition metal elements, and the formation of coordination compounds with solubility, equilibria, ions and electron pair donors will be introduced. Radioactivity, formation and types of radioactive species, reactions and their applications will be introduced.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
First year | Spring 1
Analytical Chemistry (EFN208G)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Review of fundamental concepts in quantitative analysis. Gravimetric methods. Chemical equilibria: Acid-base, precipitation, complexation, oxidation-reduction. Theory and applications of titrations based on the aforementioned equilibria. Introduction to the electrochemistry. Potentiometric and electrogravimetric methods.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
First year | Spring 1
Chemistry Laboratory 3 (EFN209G)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
3 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course contains independent, individual exercises in qualitative analyses. The student will conduct analyses of cations from the first, second, third and fourth group as well as selected anions. Supporting lectures accompany the laboratory work.

In the first half of the course, students will analyze prepared aqueous solutions of unknown compositions. In the second half the student will analyze unknown metallic alloys and salt compositions.

The student will keep a laboratory workbook during the whole course and hand it in for evaluation at the end of every exercise section.

The final grade is composed of the teacher’s grade for performance, the grade for the laboratory workbook and the grade for a short oral examination at the end of the course.

Book: Qualitative Analysis and the Property of Ions in aqueous solutions, 2. Ed., by Slowinski and Masterton.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Attendance required in class
First year | Spring 1
Chemistry Laboratory 2 (EFN210G)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
3 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Standardization of a pipette. Quantitative determinations of Ni in steel, Ca in milk, Na in water and wine.  Quantitative analysis of acetic acid and hydrogenperoxide. Identification of amino acid. Quantitative analysis of fluoride using electochemical cells.  Two component analysis using photometry.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Attendance required in class
First year | Spring 1
Probability and Statistics (STÆ203G)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Basic concepts in probability and statistics based on univariate calculus. 

Topics: 
Sample space, events, probability, equal probability, independent events, conditional probability, Bayes rule, random variables, distribution, density, joint distribution, independent random variables, condistional distribution, mean, variance, covariance, correlation, law of large numbers, Bernoulli, binomial, Poisson, uniform, exponential and normal random variables. Central limit theorem. Poisson process. Random sample, statistics, the distribution of the sample mean and the sample variance. Point estimate, maximum likelihood estimator, mean square error, bias. Interval estimates and hypotheses testing form normal, binomial and exponential samples. Simple linear regression. Goodness of fit tests, test of independence.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
First year | Spring 1
Mathematical Analysis IIE (STÆ213G)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
4 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Open and closed sets. Mappings, limits and continuity. Differentiable mappings, partial derivatives and the chain rule. Jacobi matrices. Gradients and directional derivatives. Mixed partial derivatives. Curves. Vector fields and flow. Cylindrical and spherical coordinates. Extreme values and the classification of stationary points. Extreme value problems with constraints.  Line integrals, primitive functions and exact differential equations. Double integrals. Improper integrals.  Change of variables in double integrals. Multiple integrals. Change of variables in multiple integrals. 

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Second year | Fall
Introduction to Quantum Mechanics (EÐL306G)
Restricted elective course, conditions apply
8 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course is devoted to theoretical foundations of wave and quantum mechanics. The main concepts characterizing classical waves, such as wave equation, plane waves, wavepackets and phase and group velocity are discussed and then, after the introduction of the concept of particle-wave dualism are used to describe the properties of the de Broglie material waves corresponding to quantum particles. Dynamic and stationary Schrodinger equations are introduced, and their solutions for a set of physically important particular cases, including quantum tunneling, quantum potential well, quantum harmonic oscillator and Coulomb potential are analyzed in all necessary detail. The last part of the course is devoted to the quantum description of spin.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Second year | Fall
Physical Chemistry A (EFN311G)
Restricted elective course, conditions apply
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Content of course: Energy and the first law of thermodynamics. Chemical thermodynamics. Entropy and the second law of thermodynamics. The third  law of thermodynamics. Free energy. Phase equilibrium. Solutions, in particular ionic solutions. Chemical equilibrium. Electrochemistry. Transport processes: gas kinetics, diffusion and heat transport. Mechanism and rate of chemical reactions. Enzyme catalysis.

Text book:  Atkins' Physical Chemistry 11th Edition

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Second year | Fall
Thermodynamics and Introduction to Statistical Mechanics V (EFN315G)
Restricted elective course, conditions apply
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Basic principles and mathematical methods in thermodynamics,
laws of thermodynamics, state functions, Maxwell relations, equilibrium, phase transitions, quantum statistical mechanics, ideal and real gases, specific heat, rate theory.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Second year | Fall
Biochemistry 1 (LEF302G)
Restricted elective course, conditions apply
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

A thorough treatment of the fundamentals of biochemistry - part one; structure and function of macromolecules. The scope of biochemistry. Water and its properties. Interactions in biomolecules. Amino acids, peptides and the structure of proteins. Protein function.  Protein stability, folding, and dynamics related to function. Carbohydrates and glycobiology. Lipids, membranes and membrane proteins. Enzyme kinetics, regulation of enzyme activity, and mechanisms of enzyme catalysis. Signal transduction and membrane receptors. Structure of nucleic acids, stability, and basic recombinant technology. Final grade is combined from the final exam (85% ) and a midterm exam (15%).

Lectures:
Twice weekly (2 x 40 min.) Probelm solving class (2 x 40 min.) weekly.

Course evaluation:
Final exam (3 hours): 85% of final grade.
Midterm: 15% of final grade.

Textbook:
Nelson D.L. & Cox M.M. Lehninger: Principles of Biochemistry, 8th Edition, 2021

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Second year | Fall
Inorganic Chemistry 1 (EFN304G)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The main purpose of this course is to teach the principles of chemical structure and bonding. The main focus will be on using symmetry and group theory in constructing molecular orbitals for simple molecules and ions. VSEPR and VB methods will also be used to study bonding and structure of molecules. The crystalline solid state, formulas, structures and properties. Each students performance in two interm exams will count as 20% of the final grade. The assignments will count as 5% of the final grade

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Second year | Fall
Organic Chemistry I (EFN309G)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Organic chemistry appears all around us, both in the biological aspects of our world and in the production aspect of many of our daily products. Organic chemistry also appears in many other subjects, such as biochemistry, pharmaceutical science, food science, and medicine. Understanding of the organic chemistry can help deepen our understanding of  production processes in the chemical and food industry, biochemical pathways, and the manufacturing and bioactivity of drugs.

In this course, we will cover the basics of organic chemistry. We will cover the various functional groups, their properties and reactivity, with a special emphasis on alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, alkyl halides, and aromatic compounds. We will also cover stereochemistry of organic compounds and their analysis and identification using NMR, IR, and MS.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Second year | Fall
Organic Chemistry Laboratory 1 (EFN310G)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
3 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Many of the compounds we use in our daily lives (plastics, medicine, glue and more) are produced via organic chemistry. The pharmaceutical industry is a good example of where it is important to be able to synthesize the right products, isolate/purify them and identify whether the correct product was synthesized. In this course, students will be trained in the main laboratory techniques of organic chemistry and can be beneficial in the chemical industry. Students will also receive training in analyzing their results and writing scientific reports.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Attendance required in class
Second year | Spring 1
Physical Chemistry B (EFN410G)
Restricted elective course, conditions apply
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Content of course: Principles of quantum mechanics. Chemical bonds. Intermolecular- interactions. Relationship between quantum chemistry and spectroscopy. Spectroscopic methods. Spectral analysis. Introduction to laboratory exercises.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Second year | Spring 1
Numerical Analysis (STÆ405G)
Restricted elective course, conditions apply
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Fundamental concepts on approximation and error estimates. Solutions of systems of linear and non-linear equations. PLU decomposition. Interpolating polynomials, spline interpolation and regression. Numerical differentiation and integration. Extrapolation. Numerical solutions of initial value problems of systems of ordinary differential equations. Multistep methods. Numerical solutions to boundary value problems for ordinary differential equations.

Grades are given for programning projects and in total they amount to 30% of the final grade. The student has to receive the minimum grade of 5 for both the projects and the final exam.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Second year | Spring 1
Inorganic Chemistry 2 (EFN404G)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Lectures: Summary of the chemistry of the main group elements. Coordination chemistry of the transition metals with main emphasis on bonding, structures, magnetic properties and electronic spectra. Each students performance in two interm exams will count as 25% of the final grade.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Second year | Spring 1
Organic Chemistry 2 (EFN406G)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Alcohols and phenols, ethers and epoxides, aldehydes and ketones, carboxylic acids, derivatives carbanions, amines, carbohydrates, amino acids and proteins. Spectroscopical identification of organic compounds.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Second year | Spring 1
Organic Chemistry Laboratory 2 (EFN407G)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
3 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Laboratory work: Synthesis and analytical organic chemistry.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Attendance required in class
Second year | Spring 1
Physical Chemistry Laboratory AB (EFN413G)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
4 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Experiments: Solution calorimeter. Enthalpy of combustion (bomb calorimeter). Phase diagrams and distillation of liquid solutions. Chemical equilibrium and solubility derived from conductivity measurements. Reaction kinetics (rate equations). Electrolyte solutions. Heat of vaporization. Viscosity. Spectroscopy of organic dyes. Chemical equilibrium by spectroscopic methods. Fluorescence of micellar solution. NMR spectroscopy.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Attendance required in class
Second year | Spring 1
Instrumental Analysis A (EFN414G)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course is a practical course with weekly supportive lectures.  The lectures provide heroretical background of the instrumental methods and the instruments. The supportive lectures are part of lab exercises and attendance is compulsory.

The students learn about modern methods and instruments used in analytical chemistry based on interaction between chemical- and physical properties of the substances and the electromagnetic field. Chromatographic methods used to separate mixtures into single pure compounds will be introduced.  The focus of the course is the analysis of organic compounds.

Laboratory work: Fluorimetry, atomic absorption, spectrophotometry and applications of IR, UV and visible and NMR spectroscopy. Gas- and liquid (HPLC) chromatography. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS).

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Attendance required in class
Third year | Fall
Physical Chemistry Laboratory C (EFN509G)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
4 ECTS, credits
Course Description

.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Attendance required in class
Third year | Fall
Inorganic Chemistry 3 (EFN513M)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Reaction mechanisms in coordination chemistry. Stereochemistry of reactions. Organometallic chemistry. Organic ligands and nomenclature. General principles and survey of organometallic compounds. Organometallic reactions and mechanisms. Spectral analysis and characterization of organometallic complexes. Organometallic reactions and catalysis.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Third year | Fall
Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory 3 (EFN514M)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
4 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The objective of the laboratory work is to familiarize the students with synthetic inorganic chemistry. The students will prepare classical transition-metal complexes, main group and organometallic compounds. Common methods and techniques for handling air-sensitive inorganic compounds such as the use of a vacuum-line, reactions under inert atmosphere, high-temperature reactions and sublimation, will be introduced and used.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Attendance required in class
Third year | Fall
Organic Chemistry 3 (EFN515M)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Generation of carbanions and their reactions, such as alkylation of enolates, C vs. O alkylation, aldol condensation and acylation of carbons. Decarboxylation and formation of double bonds will also be covered, along with organometallic chemistry. General and specific laboratory techniques of synthesis and analysis and the use of databases (Scifinder). Spectroscopic identification of all compounds. 75% of homework must be turned in in order to be allowed to take the exam.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Third year | Fall
Organic Chemistry Laboratory 3 (EFN516M)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
4 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The students will be trained to work independently in the laboratory, which serves as preparation for research projects in graduate school or on the job. Instead of standard and well-tested protocols, like found in most undergraduate laboratory classes, general descriptions from books or journal articles will be used. Each student gets his own four-step synthesis project. The students will carry out the reactions, monitor their progress and isolate the products while documenting their work in their notebooks. They will solve problems that may come up while performing their experiments, including optimization of reaction conditions if the reactions don´t work as expected the first time around. The structures of the products will be verified by spectroscopic methods, in particular NMR.

The students will be shown how to find reaction conditions in journal articles using databases (Scifinder). The lectures will also cover how results are communicated in scientific journals. The students will write an article describing their synthetic work, instead of writing reports for each step. A template from Organic Letters will be used.

The synthesis projects are based on the material covered in EFN511G, where the theme is formation of C-C bonds, for example by alkylation of 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds, by the use of the Wittig and Grignard reactions, aldol condensations etc.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Attendance required in class
Third year | Fall
Research Project in Chemistry (EFN261L)
Free elective course within the programme
0 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Students are given the opportunity to conduct a special topic in chemistry under the guidance of a Faculty member. The Head of the department must accept the project and supervisor prior to registration. The project is governed by rules issued by the Department of Chemistry on such special topics. The work is completed with a short thesis which is graded by the faculty member in charge and an additional faculty member. 

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Self-study
Part of the total project/thesis credits
Third year | Fall
Thermodynamics and Introduction to Statistical Mechanics (EFN307G)
Free elective course within the programme
8 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Basic principles and mathematical methods in thermodynamics,laws of thermodynamics, state functions, Maxwell relations, equilibrium, phase transitions, quantum statistical mechanics, ideal and real gases, specific heat, rate theory, Bose and Fermi distributions.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Not taught this semester
Third year | Fall
Computational Chemistry G (EFN510G)
Free elective course within the programme
8 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Methods for calculating and predicting properties of matter and the rate of transitions. Students will learn to use software for setting up and carrying out calculations of various organic and inorganic compounds and to interpret
the results for deeper insight and understanding of chemistry. Among the methods that will be introduced for calculating electron distribution are Hartree-Fock, density functional theory and perturbation theory (MP2). The compromises that need to be made in choosing basis sets and level of theory will be discussed.  Among methods used to calculate structure of molecules and movement of atoms are minimization techniques, classical dynamics, vibrational mode analysis, Monte Carlo and transition state theory.  The coursework includes laboratory exercises  involving computer calculations.

Language of instruction: English
Face-to-face learning
Third year | Spring 1
Molecular spectroscopy and reaction dynamics (EFN612M)
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
8 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course deals with the determination of the structure, energy levels, and reaction dynamics of molecules using the spectra resulting from the interaction between electromagnetic radiation and matter. The fundamentals of quantum mechanics applied to molecular spectra as well as experimental aspects of modern spectroscopic methods will be covered. The focus is on rotational and vibrational spectroscopies, electronic spectroscopy including time-resolved and single-molecule techniques, nuclear magnetic resonance, and electron paramagnetic resonance. The course involves weekly assignments and visits to experimental labs.

Language of instruction: English
Face-to-face learning
Third year | Spring 1
Research Project in Chemistry (EFN261L)
Free elective course within the programme
0 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Students are given the opportunity to conduct a special topic in chemistry under the guidance of a Faculty member. The Head of the department must accept the project and supervisor prior to registration. The project is governed by rules issued by the Department of Chemistry on such special topics. The work is completed with a short thesis which is graded by the faculty member in charge and an additional faculty member. 

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Self-study
Part of the total project/thesis credits
Not taught this semester
Third year | Spring 1
Organic Chemistry 4 (EFN608M)
Free elective course within the programme
8 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course is focused on modern methods to synthesise organic compounds with emphasis on systematic build-up of knowledge to deal with modern organic synthesis. This is added to knowledge based on previous courses in organic chemistry, Organic Chemistry 1, 2 and 3, being prerequisites to this course. The lectures will deal with various nucleophilic substitutions and electrophilic additions, modern organometallic chemistry, heterocycles, reduction and selective reducing agents, pericyclic reactions and the Woodward-Hoffmann rules, oxidations and rearrangements. Stereochemistry and stereocontrol will also be discussed and its importance in organic syntheses. Application of enzymes in organic sythesis will also be covered. Protective groups and their importance in organic sytnhesis will be discussed and systematic design and performance of organic synthesis such as umpolung, retrosynthesis, retrosynthetic analysis together with relevant concepts and theories. Finally, various classical organic synthesis of complicated natural products in historical perspectives will be described and discussed in details.

The course is intended for chemistry graduate students and students fulfillinng the prerequisites with the main aim to enable students to understand modern total synthesis of organic compounds.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
Third year | Spring 1
Inorganic Chemistry 4 (EFN610M)
Free elective course within the programme
8 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The aim of this course is to provide an overview of the diverse and fascinating discipline of advanced inorganic chemistry. The course is divided into three topics; 1) bioinorganic chemistry with emphasis on the reaction chemistry of metals in proteins; 2) Metal organic frameworks (MOFs): detailed description of the synthesis and structural analysis of MOFs and their functional properties such as gas adsorption and heterogeneous catalysis; 3) Chemistry and periodicity among metals and nonmetals. Inorganic cages, rings, and clusters. Inorganic polymers. Industrial production processes of metals and metalloids. Inorganic chemical industry in Iceland.
The focus is to provide students with the skills, knowledge and experience to develop their minds as professionals and independent researchers. This course will help students to understand and reason, how to approach a problem and evaluate their approaches by literature review followed by their analysis.
The minimum requirements for this course are Inorganic chemistry 1, 2 and 3. Although, the course is intended for graduate students in chemistry, it is open to others who fulfill the requirements. The main goals are to train students to read and analyse modern inorganic chemistry and chemical process in a meaningful and professional way.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
Third year | Spring 1
Current topics in Chemistry and Biochemistry (EFN631G)
Free elective course within the programme
1 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Lectures in contemporary research in chemistry and biochemistry are given by invited speakers. Guest speakers will be from within the University of Iceland and from other universities, research institutes and companies.
Attendance is compulsory. Minimum of 10 lectures must be attended to complete the course.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Year unspecified | Fall
Solid State and Semiconductor Physics (EÐL301G)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Basics of quantum mechanics and statistical physics. The atom. Crystal structure. The band theory of solids. Semiconductors. Transport properties of semiconductors and metals. The band theory of solids. Optical properties of semiconductors. P-n junctions. Diodes. Transistors. MOS devices. Lasers, diodes and semiconductor optics.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Fall
Classical Mechanics (EÐL302G)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Newtonian dynamics of a particle in various coordinate systems. Harmonic, damped and forced oscillations of a pendulum. Nonlinear oscillations and chaos. Gravitation and tidal forces. Calculus of variations. Lagrangian and Hamiltonian dynamics, generalized coordinates and constraints. Central force motion and planetary orbits. Dynamics of a system of particles, collisions in a center-of-mass coordinate system and in a lab system. Motion in a non-inertial reference frame, Coriolis and centrifugal forces. Motion relative to the Earth. Mechanics of rigid bodies, inertia tensors and principal axes of inertia. Eulerian angles, and Euler's equations for a rigid body. Precession, motion of a symmetric top and stability of rigid body rotations. Coupled oscillations, eigenfrequencies and normal modes.

Language of instruction: English
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Fall
Nuclei and Particles (EÐL506G)
Free elective course within the programme
8 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course is devoted to the foundations of nuclear and elementary particle physics. It consists of the lectures on the corresponding theory and a laboratory of 2 week duration. In theoretical part students learn about basic ideas of nuclear physics, such as simplest nuclear models, basics of the scattering physics, types of elementary particles and their fundamental interactions. After that basics of the relativistic wave equations are introduced. The cases of Klein-Gordon, Higgs, and Dirac equations are considered. Higgs equation is used to introduce the fundamental concept of spontaneous symmetry breaking, necessary for the understanding of the appearance of a Higgs boson.  Solution of the Dirac equation for free particles is analyzed, and related fundamental concepts of antiparticles, helicity and chirality are considered in detail. 

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Fall
Quantum Mechanics 1 (EÐL509M)
Free elective course within the programme
8 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The postulates and formalism of quantum mechanics. One-dimensional systems. Angular momentum, spin, two level systems. Particles in a central potential, the hydrogen atom. Approximation methods. Time independent and time dependent perturbation. Scattering.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Fall
Condensed Matter Physics 1 (EÐL520M)
Free elective course within the programme
8 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course is an introduction to some basic concepts of condensed matter physics. Curriculum: Chemical bonds, crystal structure, crystal symmetry, the reciprocal lattice. Vibrational modes of crystals, phonons, specific heat, thermal conductivity. The free electron model, band structure of condensed matter, effective mass. Metals, insulators and semiconductors. The course includes three labs.

Language of instruction: Icelandic/English
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Fall
Engineering Management (IÐN103G)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The purpose of the course is to prepare students for working in technology-based firms and organizations. The course will give an overview of the management of firms and organizations, the role of engineers and the challenges they face. Students will learn about analysis tools used in decision making, interpret the results, and communicate both orally and in writing.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Fall
Groundwater Hydrology (JEÐ502M)
Free elective course within the programme
7,5 ECTS, credits
Course Description

A 7-week intensive course (first 7 weeks of fall term). 

Taught if sufficient number of students. May be taugth as a reading course.

Occurrence of groundwater, the water content of soil, properties and types of aquifers (porosity, retention, yield, storage coefficients; unconfined, confined, leaky, homogeneous, isotropic aquifers). Principles of groundwater flow. Darcy's law, groundwater potential, potentiometric surface, hydraulic conductivity, transmissivity, permeability, determination of hydraulic conductivity in homogeneous and anisotropic aquifers, permeability, flow lines and flow nets, refraction of flow lines, steady and unsteady flow in confined, unconfined and leaky aquifers, general flow equations. Groundwater flow to wells, drawdown and recovery caused by pumping wells, determination of aquifer parameters from time-drawdown data, well loss, capacity and efficiency. Sea-water intrusion in coastal aquifers. Mass transport of solutes by groundwater flow. Quality and pollution of groundwater. Case histories from groundwater studies in Iceland. Numerical models of groundwater flow.   Students carry out an interdisciplinary project on groundwater hydrology and management.

Language of instruction: English
Face-to-face learning
The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
Prerequisites
Course taught first half of the semester
Year unspecified | Fall
Biochemistry 1 (LEF302G)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

A thorough treatment of the fundamentals of biochemistry - part one; structure and function of macromolecules. The scope of biochemistry. Water and its properties. Interactions in biomolecules. Amino acids, peptides and the structure of proteins. Protein function.  Protein stability, folding, and dynamics related to function. Carbohydrates and glycobiology. Lipids, membranes and membrane proteins. Enzyme kinetics, regulation of enzyme activity, and mechanisms of enzyme catalysis. Signal transduction and membrane receptors. Structure of nucleic acids, stability, and basic recombinant technology. Final grade is combined from the final exam (85% ) and a midterm exam (15%).

Lectures:
Twice weekly (2 x 40 min.) Probelm solving class (2 x 40 min.) weekly.

Course evaluation:
Final exam (3 hours): 85% of final grade.
Midterm: 15% of final grade.

Textbook:
Nelson D.L. & Cox M.M. Lehninger: Principles of Biochemistry, 8th Edition, 2021

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Fall
Biochemistry 3 (LEF501M)
Free elective course within the programme
8 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Practical class with accompanying lectures where practical and theoretical aspects of the experiments are discussed. Enzyme purification by hydrophobic, ion-exchange, affinity and gel filtration chromatography. Gel electrophoresis. Enzyme kinetics and inhibitors. Specific chemical modification of enzymes. Thermal stability of proteins. Ligand-protein interactions. Immunoprecipitation. Restriction enzymes and agarose electrophoresis.  Bioinformatics by computer.

Practical projects:
The following laboratory sessions are performed: Enzyme kinetics and the effect of inhibitors. Purification of enzymes by hydrophobic interactions, ion-exchange chromatography, affinity chromatography, and gel-filtration. Electrophoresis of protein and nucleic acids. Stability of proteins toward heating and urea/guanidinium assessed by activity measurements, UV-absorbance and circular dichroism. Determination of activation enery (Ea) and Gibb’s free energy. Specific reactions of amino acid side-chains in proteins for determining number of disulfide bonds and thiol groups. Action of reactive compounds as proteinase inhibitors differentiating between serine and cysteine proteases. Digestion of DNA by restriction enzymes and melting of DNA under various conditions that affect its stability. Preparation of samples for mass spectrometry by trypsin digestion and spotting of samples for MALDI-MS. Fingerprint identification using the computer program and database of Mascot. Bioinformatics and analysis of protein structures on the computer screen (e.q. BLAST, DeepView).

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Fall
Applied Biochemistry (LEF509M)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Aimed at introducing students to aspects of applied biochemistry and biotechnology with emphasis on protein biotechnology. Lectures: Use of proteins in industry and medicine. Industrial use of enzymes. Enzyme reactors. Applications of immobilized enzymes. Biosensors. Use of recombinant DNA technology to genetically engineer organisms for production of biochemicals. Analytical biochemistry. Automaton in bioanalysis. Purification of bioproducts; scaling up of production lines and downstream processing. Tutorials: Recent research papers presented and discussed.

Teaching methods:
Lectures (about 40). Student lectures based on selected scientific papers.

The course is taught together with ILT102F - Introduction to Applied Biotechnology. Students can only take one of the courses, not both. 

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Year unspecified | Fall
Genetics (LÍF109G)
Free elective course within the programme
8 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Lectures: Mendelian inheritance. Sex chromosomes. Cytoplasmic inheritance. Chromosomes. Cell division (mitosis and meiosis). Life cycles. Linkage and recombination in eukaryotes. Bacterial genetics. Gene mapping and tetrad analysis. Genotype and phenotype. Chromosomal changes. DNA: Structure and replication. RNA: Transcription. Rgulation of gene transcription. Gene isolation and manipulation. Genomics. Transposons.  Mutations. Repair and recombination.  Model organisms. Laboratory work: : I. The fruitfly Drosophila melanogaster. II. Mitosis in onions. III. Plasmids and restriction enzymes. IV. PCR. V. Analysis of asci from Sordaria fimicola.

Exam: Laboratory and problems 25%, written 75%. Minimum mark needed for each part.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Attendance required in class
Year unspecified | Fall
Cell Biology (LÍF315G)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The cell biology part includes four lectures each week for 14 weeks (4L week for 14 weeks). The content includes: Introduction to cell biology, structure and evolution of eukaryotic cells. The main emphasis is on eukaryotic cells. Chemistry of the cell and energy conversion, structure and function of cellular macromolecules. The structure and function of cellular organs and functional units like the cell membrane, nucleus, mitochondria, chloroplasts, cytoskeleton, golgi-system, lysosomes and peroxisomes. Intracellular regulation and signal pathways linked to communication between cells, together with cell differentiation and cancer. Details on extracellular matrix are included and basic immunology.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Attendance required in class
Year unspecified | Fall
Methods in Molecular Biology (LÍF523G)
Free elective course within the programme
8 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course is divided into lectures, practical sessions, discussions and student projects.

Lectures: Theoretical basis of common molecular-biology techniques and their application in research. Course material provided by teachers.

Laboratory practice in molecular biology techniques: Training in general molecular biology laboratory skills and active documentation in laboratory notebooks.

Discussions are associated with all other parts (lectures, practicals and student projects)

Main topics:  Laboratory notebooks, electronic laboratory notebooks and standard operating procedures (SOP's), use of online tools. Basics of DNA work and DNA cloning. Plasmids and plasmid maps, working with DNA sequences. DNA and RNA isolation and quantification (Southern and Northern blotting, PCR, RT-PCR, qRT-PCR), restriction enzymes, DNA sequencing techniques and data analysis. Basics of E. coli cultures and plasmid work. Basics of cell culture and transfection. Model organisms: E.coli, S. cerevisiae, C. reinhardtii, A. thaliana, C. elegans, D. melanogaster, M. musculus.  Transgenesis and genetic tools in bacteria, yeast and multicellular organisms. CRISPR technique and gRNA design. RNA interference and other methods for conditional gene expression and inhibition. Protein expression and analysis. How to raise and use antibodies for research. Western blot, immunostaining of cells and tissues, radioactive techniques. Microscopy in molecular biology. Methods used in recent research papers will be discussed.

Student projects: Study of a recent method or method group. Output varies by year but aims at training students in reference work and different approaches to mediating scientific material. Examples include: Posters, Essays, Talks, Videos, Webpages and Podcasts.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Attendance required in class
Year unspecified | Fall
Microbiology and Virology (LYF301G)
Free elective course within the programme
8 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The course consists of two main parts, microbiology and infectious diseases. These parts are intergraded and provide the basis for knowledge and understanding of the characteristics of different pathogens and their relations to infectious diseases, preventions and treatment.  

Teaching/learning procedures
In the teaching is based on lectures and includes following parts:

  1. Bacteriology – basics
  2. Bacteriology – species/groups and bacterial infections in diverse organs and organ systems 
  3. Virology and viral infections, prions
  4. Mycology and fungal infections
  5. Parasitology and parasitic infections

The students deliver their projects by introduction and/or reports, Exams are in each part of the course, during or following.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Fall
Mathematical Analysis III (STÆ302G)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Functions of a complex variable. Analytic functions. The exponential function, logarithms and roots. Cauchy's Integral Theorem and Cauchy's Integral Formula. Uniform convergence. Power series. Laurent series. Residue integration method. Application of complex function theory to fluid flows. Ordinary differential equations and systems of ordinary differential equations. Linear differential equations with constant coefficients. Systems of linear differential equations. The matrix exponential function. Various methods for obtaining a particular solution. Green's functions for initial value problems. Flows and the phase plane. Nonlinear systems of ordinary differential equations in the plane, equilibrium points, stability and linear approximations. Series solutions and the method of Frobenius. Use of Laplace transforms in solving differential equations.

Language of instruction: English
Face-to-face learning
Not taught this semester
Year unspecified | Fall
Partial Differential Equations (STÆ505M)
Free elective course within the programme
10 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The object of the course is to give a firm and rigorous foundation for more advanced studies in partial differential equations. Contents: first order equations; the Cauchy-Kowalevski theorem; techniques of analysis (Lebesgue-integral, convolutions, Fourier-transform); distributions; fundamental solutions; the Laplace operator; the heat operator.  The course is mainly intended for postgraduate students with a good background in analysis.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Distance learning
Year unspecified | Fall
Computer Science 1 (TÖL101G)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The Java programming language will be used to introduce basic practices in computer programming. Practice in programming is scheduled throughout the semester. An emphasis is placed on logical methods for writing program and good documentation. Main ideas related to computers and programming. Classes, objects and methods. Control statements. Strings and arrays, operations and built-in functons. Input and output. Inheritance. Ideas relatied to system design and good practices for program writing. Iteration and recursion. Searching and Sorting.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Not taught this semester
Year unspecified | Fall
Energy Intensive Production Processes (VÉL102M)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The aim of the course is:- To give students overview of processes in materials engineering;- To encourage students to think about feasible ways to utilize renewable energy. The course will cover the industrial processes in some of the larger Icelandic companies, including the production of ferro-alloys, aluminium smelting, rockwool production, recycling of steel, algea and diatomitemining, and production of sodium chlorine, fertilizers, cement. The course will also cover some of the larger material engineering processes that are not in practice in Iceland but may be a feasible option for Icelandic industry. Students will get good overview of the processes, required materials, source of power and power consumption, pollution, products etc. Discussions will be held on the financial background for individual processes, covering aspects such as production cost, profit and the influences of market share changes. Grades are based on 2 larger projects the students work on through the semester. Field trips are an important part of the course.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Fall
Engineering Materials (VÉL301G)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The objective of the course is to teach the fundamental principles of materials science so the student can better understand material behavior and select appropriate materials for a given application. Theoretical basis is given for the understanding of material behaviour from a microscopic view. The course includes the following topics: crystalline structures, imperfections, diffusion, mechanical properties, deformation and strengthening mechanisms, fracture and fatique, phase diagrams, phase transformations, thermal processing of metal alloys, types of materials (metal alloys, polymers, ceramics, composites), corrosion and degradation of of materials. The course includes homework problems and practical classes in laboratory.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Fall
Fluid Mechanics (VÉL502G)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Properties of liquids and gases. Pressure and force fields in liquids at rest, pressure gauges. Equations of motion, continuity, momentum and energy. Bernoulli equation of motion. Dimensional analysis and dynamic similarity. Two dimensional flow, non-viscous fluids, boundary layers theory, laminar and turbulent flow, fluid friction and form drag. Flow of compressible fluids, velocity of sound. Mach number, sound waves, nozzle shape for supersonic speed. Open channel flow. Several experiments are conducted.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Spring 1
General Relativity (EÐL610M)
Free elective course within the programme
10 ECTS, credits
Course Description

This course provides a basic introduction to Einstein's relativity theory: Special relativity, four-vectors and tensors. General relativity, spacetime curvature, the equivalence principle, Einstein's equations, experimental tests within the solar system, gravitational waves, black holes, cosmology.

Teachers: Benjamin Knorr and Ziqi Yan, postdocs at Nordita

Language of instruction: Icelandic/English
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Spring 1
Modern Experimental Physics (EÐL616M)
Free elective course within the programme
8 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Presentation of important techniques used in experimental physics and of various phenomena related to the subject matter of the second and third year of the Physics curriculum. Six extensive experiments are made, most of which are related to active research in experimental physics at the Science Institute of the University of Iceland.  The course emphasizes independence in carrying out the experiments, data analysis and literature search.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Not taught this semester
Year unspecified | Spring 1
Life in the Universe (EÐL620M)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

An introduction to astrobiology. Formation of the elements in the primordial plasma. Formation of heavy elements in stars and in their environments. Origin of galaxies, stellar systems, stars and planets. Formation of molecules and dust in the interstellar medium. Properties of Carbon and other elements necessary for life. Topics in biochemistry and thermodynamics. Origin and evolution of the Earth. Origin of water. The atmosphere. The Earth compared to other planets. What is life and what does it need? Origin and evolution of life on Earth. Life in extreme environments. Asteroids and impacts with the Earth. Effects of nearby supernovas. Is there life elsewhere in the Solar System, e.g. on Mars, Europa or Titan? Habitable worlds in the Universe. Extrasolar planets. The search for extraterrestrial intelligence. The Fermi paradox. Anthropic reasoning.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Year unspecified | Spring 1
Material and Energy Balances (EVF401G)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Introduction to processes and material and energy balance calculations applied to industrial processes. Analysis of gas behavior, gas-liquid systems, and phase equilibrium. Material balances, including reaction systems and multiple-unit systems. Energy balances, including reaction systems and multiple-unit systems, and combined energy-material balances.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Spring 1
Process Design (EVF601M)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

A systematic introduction to the use of process simulators (like Aspen) to model, design and optimize chemical manufacturing processes. The selection, optimization and combination of reactors, separation equipment and heat exchangers. An introduction to the concepts and principles of project economics.

Language of instruction: English
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Spring 1
Reaction Design (EVF602M)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Design of chemical reactors for economical processes and waste minimization. Contacting patterns, kinetics and transport rate effects in single phase and catalytic systems. Another goal of the course is to introduce the fundamentals of mass transfer in chemical engineering such as the mass transfer theory and how to set up differential equations and solve them for such systems.

Language of instruction: English
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Spring 1
Design & Experimental Execution (IÐN405G)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The purpose of the course is to train an engineering approach to experiments and experimental thinking. Experiments are designed, carried out, data collected and processed using statistical methods. Finally, it discussed how conclusions can be drawn from data / information when using experiments in for example product design and the design and operation of production systems.

Course material: Linear and non-linear regression analysis. Analysis of Variances (ANOVA). Design of experiments. Statistical quality control. Non-parametric tests that can be used in data processing. Use of statistical programs when solving tasks.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Spring 1
Biochemistry 2 (LEF406G)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

In this course, the main metabolic processes of cells are studied, with a focus on carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism, as well as the metabolic regulation of these processes. The course begins with a detailed examination of carbohydrate metabolism, including glycolysis (both aerobic and anaerobic), the citric acid cycle, and the pentose phosphate pathway. Then we continue into pathways such as gluconeogenesis, glycogen breakdown, and then into how carbohydrate metabolism is regulated.

Next, the focus shifts to fat metabolism, where the breakdown of triglycerides, fatty acid oxidation, and fatty acid synthesis are explained. Special emphasis is placed on the regulation of fat metabolism and the control of enzymes involved in these processes. Following this, protein metabolism is addressed, where protein hydrolysis, amino acid degradation, and the urea cycle are studied.

The course also covers the integration and regulation of metabolic pathways, with a focus on the complex regulation that occurs in the key steps of these pathways, considering both intracellular signals and hormones. It examines how these processes adapt to various conditions to maintain homeostasis and the effects of disruptions in their regulation. Lastly, photosynthesis and the Calvin cycle are covered.

This course is highly beneficial for those seeking an in-depth understanding of biochemical processes and the biochemistry of the human body.

Lectures are held twice a week (2 x 40 minutes) over 13-14 weeks. 

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Spring 1
Structure and Function of Proteins (LEF616M)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The characteristics of protein structures at the different structural levels. How structure determines the different properties of proteins. Structural classes of proteins and their characteristics. Relationship between molecular structure and biological function. Interactions that determine structural stability of proteins. Protein folding and unfolding. Effects of different parameters, e.g. temperature, pH, salts and denaturants on protein stability. Techniques used for determination structure and different properties proteins. Selected topics in protein structure function relationships.

Course plan: Lectures twice per week (2x40 min. each time). Computer lab once per week (2x40 min.). Lab sessions involve training using the WWW to study proteins. Tutorials and practice of using SwissPDBviewer program for solving specific assignments related to topics covered in lectures.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Spring 1
Biochemistry 4 (LEF617M)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

This course focuses on methodology and recent innovations in biochemistry, emphasizing both analytical and computational techniques. It is divided into several modules, each taught by experts in their respective fields. While lectures form the core of the material, additional resources such as articles or book chapters may be assigned when appropriate. Practical demonstrations of research equipment may also be included. Students are expected to submit several written assignments throughout the semester.

The course will explore recent research in various specialized areas of biochemistry, and the content of the modules is regularly updated.

Topics covered may include single-molecule spectroscopy, protein mass spectrometry, structural biochemistry, binding affinity and thermodynamics, enzymology, and computational biochemistry.

Language of instruction: English
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Not taught this semester
Year unspecified | Spring 1
Ecotoxicology (LÍF620M)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The objectives of the course are to introduce students to important pollutants, their characteristics and distribution, with emphasis on their effects on organisms. The first part of the course deals with the major classes of pollutants (Metals, Organic pollutants, Radioactivity), their origin, behaviour and characteristics. The second part focuses on bioavailability, bioaccumulation and bioconcentration and the effects of the pollutants on organisms. Biomarkers and bioassays will be discussed. The third part of the course deals with pollutants in arctic and subarctic areas, with emphasis on Iceland. Practical classes consist of four large projects.

Language of instruction: English
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
Year unspecified | Spring 1
Molecular Genetics (LÍF644M)
Free elective course within the programme
8 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Lectures: The molecular basis of life (chemical bonds, biological molecules, structure of DNA, RNA and proteins). Genomes and the flow of biological information. Chromosome structure and function, chromatin and nucleosomes. The cell cycle, DNA replication. Chromosome segregaition, Transcription. Regulation of transcription. RNA processing. Translation. Regulation of translation. Regulatory RNAs. Protein modification and targeting. DNA damage, checkpoints and DNA repair mechanisms. Repair of DNA double-strand breaks and homologous recombination. Mobile DNA elements. Tools and techniques in molecular Biology icluding Model organisms.

Seminar: Students present and discuss selected research papers and hand in a short essay.

Laboratory work: Work on molecular genetics project relevant to current research. Basic methods such as gene cloning, gene transfer and expression, PCR, sequencing, DNA isolation and restriction analysis, electrophoresis of DNA and proteins will be used.

Exam: Laboratory 10%, seminar 15%, written final exam 75%.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Not taught this semester
Year unspecified | Spring 1
Introduction to Systems Biology (LVF601M)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Systems biology is an interdisciplinary field that studies the biological phenomena that emerge from multiple interacting biological elements. Understanding how biological systems change across time is a particular focus of systems biology. In this course, we will prioritize aspects of systems biology relevant to human health and disease.

This course provides an introduction to 1) basic principles in modelling molecular networks, both gene regulatory and metabolic networks; 2) cellular phenomena that support homeostasis like tissue morphogenesis and microbiome resilience, and 3) analysis of molecular patterns found in genomics data at population scale relevant to human disease such as patient classification and biomarker discovery. In this manner, the course covers the three major scales in systems biology: molecules, cells and organisms.

The course activities include reading and interpreting scientific papers, implementation of computational algorithms, working on a research project and presentation of scientific results.

Lectures will comprise of both (1) presentations on foundational concepts and (2) hands-on sessions using Python as the programming language. The course will be taught in English.

Language of instruction: English
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Spring 1
Sets and Metric Spaces (STÆ202G)
Free elective course within the programme
8 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Elements of set theory: Sets. Mappings. Relations, equivalence relations, orderings. Finite, infinite, countable and uncountable sets. Equipotent sets. Construction of the number systems. Metric spaces: Open sets and closed sets, convergent sequences and Cauchy sequences, cluster points of sets and limit points of sequences. Continuous mappings, convergence, uniform continuity. Complete metric spaces. Uniform convergence and interchange of limits. The Banach fixed point theorem; existence theorem about solutions of first-order differential equations. Completion of metric spaces. Compact metric spaces. Connected sets. Infinite series, in particular function series.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Spring 1
Mathematics for Physicists I (STÆ211G)
Free elective course within the programme
2 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Python tools related to data analysis and plotting. Mathematical concepts such as vectors, matrices, differential operators in three dimensions, coordinate transformations, partial differential equations and Fourier series and their relation to undergraduate courses in physics and engineering. We will emphasize applications and problem solving.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Spring 1
Mathematics for Physicists II (EÐL408G)
Free elective course within the programme
2 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Python tools related to data analysis and manipulation of graphs. Differential equations and their use in the description of physical systems. Partial differential equations and boundary value problems. Special functions and their relation to important problems in physics. We will emphasize applications and problem solving.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Spring 1
Mathematical Analysis IV (STÆ401G)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Aim: To introduce the student to Fourier analysis and partial differential equations and their applications.
Subject matter: Fourier series and orthonormal systems of functions, boundary-value problems for ordinary differential equations, the eigenvalue problem for Sturm-Liouville operators, Fourier transform. The wave equation, diffusion equation and Laplace's equation solved on various domains in one, two and three dimensions by methods based on the first part of the course, separation of variables, fundamental solution, Green's functions and the method of images.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Spring 1
Numerical Analysis (STÆ405G)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Fundamental concepts on approximation and error estimates. Solutions of systems of linear and non-linear equations. PLU decomposition. Interpolating polynomials, spline interpolation and regression. Numerical differentiation and integration. Extrapolation. Numerical solutions of initial value problems of systems of ordinary differential equations. Multistep methods. Numerical solutions to boundary value problems for ordinary differential equations.

Grades are given for programning projects and in total they amount to 30% of the final grade. The student has to receive the minimum grade of 5 for both the projects and the final exam.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Spring 1
Computer Science 2 (TÖL203G)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

The programming language Java will be used in the course. Various data structures, algorithms and abstract data types will be covered. Among the data types and structures covered are lists, stacks, queues, priority queues, trees, binary trees, binary search trees and heaps along with related algorithms. Various search and sort algorithms will be covered. Algorithms will be analysed for their space and time complexity. There will be programming assignments in Java using the given data structures and algorithms. There will be many small assignments.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Spring 1
Energy Processes (VÉL405G)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Goal: Enable the students to: 1: Study thermodynamics from the viewpoint of the second law of thermodynamics 2. Understand standard power cycles, and their use for analysis of power plants 3. Understand air conditioning systems and their necessity 4. Understand thermochemistry and be able to estimate heat release through combustion. Content: Work, heat and energy conversion. Exergy and anergy. Energy, energy price and energy quality. Standard power and refrigeration cycles. Steam power cycles, geothermal utilization. Gas mixtures, moist air, ventilation and air purifiers. The Mollier i-x chart. Thermochemistry, combustion and reactions, chemical equilibrium. New energy systems. Exercises, design project.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Spring 1
Heat Transfer (VÉL601G)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

Heat conduction, one and two dimensional systems, steady and unsteady heat conduction, numerical analysis of heat conduction systems. Fins and enlarged heat transfer surfaces. Heat transfer by convection, laminar and turbulent flow. Free and forced convection. Evaporation and condensation. Thermal radiation, Stefan-Boltzmann's and Planck's laws. Thermal radiation properties of materials. Shape factors, radiative heat exchange between surfaces, radiation properties of gases. Heat exchangers and their design. Special topics in heat transfer.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Spring 1
Episodes from the history of philosophy of science (SAG448G)
Free elective course within the programme
6 ECTS, credits
Course Description

This course aims to introduce students to the nature and development of science by examining episodes of its history and by disucssing recent theories concerning the nature, aims, and development of science. A special emphasis will be placed on the history of physical science from Aristotle to Newton, including developments in astronomy during the scientific revolution of the 16th and 17th century. We will also specifically examine the history of Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. These episodes and many others will be viewed through the lens of various theories of scientific progress, and through recent views about interactions between science and society at large. The course material may change depending on the students’ interest.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Year unspecified | Spring 1
Episodes from the history of philosophy of science (SAG817M)
Free elective course within the programme
10 ECTS, credits
Course Description

This course aims to introduce students to the nature and development of science by examining episodes of its history and by disucssing recent theories concerning the nature, aims, and development of science. A special emphasis will be placed on the history of physical science from Aristotle to Newton, including developments in astronomy during the scientific revolution of the 16th and 17th century. We will also specifically examine the history of Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. These episodes and many others will be viewed through the lens of various theories of scientific progress, and through recent views about interactions between science and society at large. The course material may change depending on the students’ interest.

Language of instruction: Icelandic
Face-to-face learning
Prerequisites
First year
  • Fall
  • EÐL102G
    Physics 1 V
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Concepts, units, scales and dimensions. Vectors. Kinematics of particles. Particle dynamics, inertia, forces and Newton's laws. Friction. Work and energy, conservation of energy. Momentum, collisions. Systems of particles, center of mass. Rotation of a rigid body. Angular momentum and moment of inertia. Statics. Gravity. Solids and fluids, Bernoulli's equation. Oscillations: Simple, damped and forced. Waves. Sound. Temperature. Ideal gas. Heat and the first law of thermodynamics. Kinetic theory of gases. Entropy and the second law of thermodynamics. Home problems: Once a week the students have to solve homeproblems on the website MasteringPhysics.

    Laboratory work: Three exercises, mainly centered on mechanics, where students are trained in handling physical instruments, collecting and inspecting data. Students hand in their lab notebooks for a grade.

    Note that the textbook is accessible to students via Canvas free of charge.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN108G
    General Chemistry 1
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The basis of the atomic theory. Stoichiometry. Types of chemical reactions and solution stoichiometry. Properties of gases. Chemical equilibrium. Acids and bases. Applications of aqueous equilibria. Chemical thermodynamics. Enthropy, free energy and equilibrium. Electrochemistry. Chemical kinetics. Physical properties of solutions.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN109G
    Chemistry Laboratory 1
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Molar volume of gases, thermochemistry, reaction enthalpies and Hesse's law, Rate of chemical reactions, decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, reaction reversibility and Le Chatelier's principle, determination of acid ionization constants, oxidation-reduction; electrochemistry, thermodynamics of an electrochemical cell.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN114G
    Introduction to Scientific Programming
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The goal of this course is to learn how to use the programming language Python for scientific programming. The basics of scientific computing, such as flow control with logical operators and loops, are explained. Plotting data in 1D, 2D and 3D will be taught, extracting data and changing it, evaluating sums, and how you can calculate simple problems in linear algebra (vectors and matrices). The course starts in week 6 and spans for 9 weeks of the semester. A written examination taken at a computer terminal constitutes 60% of the final mark. Projects handed in during the semester yield the other 40%.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ104G
    Mathematical Analysis I
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This is a foundational course in single variable calculus. The prerequisites are high school courses on algebra, trigonometry. derivatives, and integrals. The course aims to create a foundation for understanding of subjects such as natural and physical sciences, engineering, economics, and computer science. Topics of the course include the following:

    • Real numbers.
    • Limits and continuous functions.
    • Differentiable functions, rules for derivatives, derivatives of higher order, applications of differential calculus (extremal value problems, linear approximation).
    • Transcendental functions.
    • Mean value theorem, theorems of l'Hôpital and Taylor.
    • Integration, the definite integral and rules/techniques of integration, primitives, improper integrals.
    • Fundamental theorem of calculus.
    • Applications of integral calculus: Arc length, area, volume, centroids.
    • Ordinary differential equations: First-order separable and homogeneous differential equations, first-order linear equations, second-order linear equations with constant coefficients.
    • Sequences and series, convergence tests.
    • Power series, Taylor series.
    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ107G
    Linear Algebra
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basics of linear algebra over the reals.  

    Subject matter: Systems of linear equations, matrices, Gauss-Jordan reduction.  Vector spaces and their subspaces.  Linearly independent sets, bases and dimension.  Linear maps, range space and nullk space.  The dot product, length and angle measures.  Volumes in higher dimension and the cross product in threedimensional space.  Flats, parametric descriptions and descriptions by equations.  Orthogonal projections and orthonormal bases.  Gram-Schmidt orthogonalization.  Determinants and inverses of matrices.  Eigenvalues, eigenvectors and diagonalization.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Spring 2
  • EÐL208G
    Physics 2 E
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is taught together with EÐL201G. The class is given for 8 weeks (spread over 11 week period).Topics: Charge and electric field. Gauss' law. Electric potential. Capacitors and dielectrics. Electric currents and resistance. Magnetic fields. The laws of Ampère and Faraday. Induction. Maxwell's equations. Electromagnetic waves. Reflection and refraction. Lenses and mirrors. Wave optics. Two laboratory exercises in optics.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN202G
    General Chemistry 2
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course focuses on the structure of the periodic table and properties of the elements based on their place in the periodic table. The students learn about the naturally occurring forms of the elements, isolation of the elements and common chemical reactions. Atomic theory is taught as a base for understanding the properties of the elements and their reactivity. Early theories of the structure of the hydrogen atome put forward by Bohr and their development to modern view of the atom structure are covered. The electronic structure of the atom is described, and theories describing formation of chemical bonds such as valence bond theory, VSEPR, and molecular orbital theory are used to determine structures and predict reactivity of molecules. Processes for purification of metals from their naturally occurring ores is covered as well as properties of metalloids and nonmetals. The transition metal elements, and the formation of coordination compounds with solubility, equilibria, ions and electron pair donors will be introduced. Radioactivity, formation and types of radioactive species, reactions and their applications will be introduced.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN208G
    Analytical Chemistry
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Review of fundamental concepts in quantitative analysis. Gravimetric methods. Chemical equilibria: Acid-base, precipitation, complexation, oxidation-reduction. Theory and applications of titrations based on the aforementioned equilibria. Introduction to the electrochemistry. Potentiometric and electrogravimetric methods.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN209G
    Chemistry Laboratory 3
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course contains independent, individual exercises in qualitative analyses. The student will conduct analyses of cations from the first, second, third and fourth group as well as selected anions. Supporting lectures accompany the laboratory work.

    In the first half of the course, students will analyze prepared aqueous solutions of unknown compositions. In the second half the student will analyze unknown metallic alloys and salt compositions.

    The student will keep a laboratory workbook during the whole course and hand it in for evaluation at the end of every exercise section.

    The final grade is composed of the teacher’s grade for performance, the grade for the laboratory workbook and the grade for a short oral examination at the end of the course.

    Book: Qualitative Analysis and the Property of Ions in aqueous solutions, 2. Ed., by Slowinski and Masterton.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN210G
    Chemistry Laboratory 2
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Standardization of a pipette. Quantitative determinations of Ni in steel, Ca in milk, Na in water and wine.  Quantitative analysis of acetic acid and hydrogenperoxide. Identification of amino acid. Quantitative analysis of fluoride using electochemical cells.  Two component analysis using photometry.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • STÆ203G
    Probability and Statistics
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basic concepts in probability and statistics based on univariate calculus. 

    Topics: 
    Sample space, events, probability, equal probability, independent events, conditional probability, Bayes rule, random variables, distribution, density, joint distribution, independent random variables, condistional distribution, mean, variance, covariance, correlation, law of large numbers, Bernoulli, binomial, Poisson, uniform, exponential and normal random variables. Central limit theorem. Poisson process. Random sample, statistics, the distribution of the sample mean and the sample variance. Point estimate, maximum likelihood estimator, mean square error, bias. Interval estimates and hypotheses testing form normal, binomial and exponential samples. Simple linear regression. Goodness of fit tests, test of independence.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ213G
    Mathematical Analysis IIE
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Open and closed sets. Mappings, limits and continuity. Differentiable mappings, partial derivatives and the chain rule. Jacobi matrices. Gradients and directional derivatives. Mixed partial derivatives. Curves. Vector fields and flow. Cylindrical and spherical coordinates. Extreme values and the classification of stationary points. Extreme value problems with constraints.  Line integrals, primitive functions and exact differential equations. Double integrals. Improper integrals.  Change of variables in double integrals. Multiple integrals. Change of variables in multiple integrals. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Fall
  • EÐL306G
    Introduction to Quantum Mechanics
    Restricted elective course
    8
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is devoted to theoretical foundations of wave and quantum mechanics. The main concepts characterizing classical waves, such as wave equation, plane waves, wavepackets and phase and group velocity are discussed and then, after the introduction of the concept of particle-wave dualism are used to describe the properties of the de Broglie material waves corresponding to quantum particles. Dynamic and stationary Schrodinger equations are introduced, and their solutions for a set of physically important particular cases, including quantum tunneling, quantum potential well, quantum harmonic oscillator and Coulomb potential are analyzed in all necessary detail. The last part of the course is devoted to the quantum description of spin.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN311G
    Physical Chemistry A
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Content of course: Energy and the first law of thermodynamics. Chemical thermodynamics. Entropy and the second law of thermodynamics. The third  law of thermodynamics. Free energy. Phase equilibrium. Solutions, in particular ionic solutions. Chemical equilibrium. Electrochemistry. Transport processes: gas kinetics, diffusion and heat transport. Mechanism and rate of chemical reactions. Enzyme catalysis.

    Text book:  Atkins' Physical Chemistry 11th Edition

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN315G
    Thermodynamics and Introduction to Statistical Mechanics V
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basic principles and mathematical methods in thermodynamics,
    laws of thermodynamics, state functions, Maxwell relations, equilibrium, phase transitions, quantum statistical mechanics, ideal and real gases, specific heat, rate theory.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF302G
    Biochemistry 1
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    A thorough treatment of the fundamentals of biochemistry - part one; structure and function of macromolecules. The scope of biochemistry. Water and its properties. Interactions in biomolecules. Amino acids, peptides and the structure of proteins. Protein function.  Protein stability, folding, and dynamics related to function. Carbohydrates and glycobiology. Lipids, membranes and membrane proteins. Enzyme kinetics, regulation of enzyme activity, and mechanisms of enzyme catalysis. Signal transduction and membrane receptors. Structure of nucleic acids, stability, and basic recombinant technology. Final grade is combined from the final exam (85% ) and a midterm exam (15%).

    Lectures:
    Twice weekly (2 x 40 min.) Probelm solving class (2 x 40 min.) weekly.

    Course evaluation:
    Final exam (3 hours): 85% of final grade.
    Midterm: 15% of final grade.

    Textbook:
    Nelson D.L. & Cox M.M. Lehninger: Principles of Biochemistry, 8th Edition, 2021

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN304G
    Inorganic Chemistry 1
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The main purpose of this course is to teach the principles of chemical structure and bonding. The main focus will be on using symmetry and group theory in constructing molecular orbitals for simple molecules and ions. VSEPR and VB methods will also be used to study bonding and structure of molecules. The crystalline solid state, formulas, structures and properties. Each students performance in two interm exams will count as 20% of the final grade. The assignments will count as 5% of the final grade

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN309G
    Organic Chemistry I
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Organic chemistry appears all around us, both in the biological aspects of our world and in the production aspect of many of our daily products. Organic chemistry also appears in many other subjects, such as biochemistry, pharmaceutical science, food science, and medicine. Understanding of the organic chemistry can help deepen our understanding of  production processes in the chemical and food industry, biochemical pathways, and the manufacturing and bioactivity of drugs.

    In this course, we will cover the basics of organic chemistry. We will cover the various functional groups, their properties and reactivity, with a special emphasis on alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, alkyl halides, and aromatic compounds. We will also cover stereochemistry of organic compounds and their analysis and identification using NMR, IR, and MS.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN310G
    Organic Chemistry Laboratory 1
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Many of the compounds we use in our daily lives (plastics, medicine, glue and more) are produced via organic chemistry. The pharmaceutical industry is a good example of where it is important to be able to synthesize the right products, isolate/purify them and identify whether the correct product was synthesized. In this course, students will be trained in the main laboratory techniques of organic chemistry and can be beneficial in the chemical industry. Students will also receive training in analyzing their results and writing scientific reports.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • Spring 2
  • EFN410G
    Physical Chemistry B
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Content of course: Principles of quantum mechanics. Chemical bonds. Intermolecular- interactions. Relationship between quantum chemistry and spectroscopy. Spectroscopic methods. Spectral analysis. Introduction to laboratory exercises.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ405G
    Numerical Analysis
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Fundamental concepts on approximation and error estimates. Solutions of systems of linear and non-linear equations. PLU decomposition. Interpolating polynomials, spline interpolation and regression. Numerical differentiation and integration. Extrapolation. Numerical solutions of initial value problems of systems of ordinary differential equations. Multistep methods. Numerical solutions to boundary value problems for ordinary differential equations.

    Grades are given for programning projects and in total they amount to 30% of the final grade. The student has to receive the minimum grade of 5 for both the projects and the final exam.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN404G
    Inorganic Chemistry 2
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures: Summary of the chemistry of the main group elements. Coordination chemistry of the transition metals with main emphasis on bonding, structures, magnetic properties and electronic spectra. Each students performance in two interm exams will count as 25% of the final grade.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN406G
    Organic Chemistry 2
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Alcohols and phenols, ethers and epoxides, aldehydes and ketones, carboxylic acids, derivatives carbanions, amines, carbohydrates, amino acids and proteins. Spectroscopical identification of organic compounds.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN407G
    Organic Chemistry Laboratory 2
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Laboratory work: Synthesis and analytical organic chemistry.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN413G
    Physical Chemistry Laboratory AB
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Experiments: Solution calorimeter. Enthalpy of combustion (bomb calorimeter). Phase diagrams and distillation of liquid solutions. Chemical equilibrium and solubility derived from conductivity measurements. Reaction kinetics (rate equations). Electrolyte solutions. Heat of vaporization. Viscosity. Spectroscopy of organic dyes. Chemical equilibrium by spectroscopic methods. Fluorescence of micellar solution. NMR spectroscopy.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN414G
    Instrumental Analysis A
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is a practical course with weekly supportive lectures.  The lectures provide heroretical background of the instrumental methods and the instruments. The supportive lectures are part of lab exercises and attendance is compulsory.

    The students learn about modern methods and instruments used in analytical chemistry based on interaction between chemical- and physical properties of the substances and the electromagnetic field. Chromatographic methods used to separate mixtures into single pure compounds will be introduced.  The focus of the course is the analysis of organic compounds.

    Laboratory work: Fluorimetry, atomic absorption, spectrophotometry and applications of IR, UV and visible and NMR spectroscopy. Gas- and liquid (HPLC) chromatography. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS).

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • Fall
  • EFN509G
    Physical Chemistry Laboratory C
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    .

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN513M
    Inorganic Chemistry 3
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Reaction mechanisms in coordination chemistry. Stereochemistry of reactions. Organometallic chemistry. Organic ligands and nomenclature. General principles and survey of organometallic compounds. Organometallic reactions and mechanisms. Spectral analysis and characterization of organometallic complexes. Organometallic reactions and catalysis.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN514M
    Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory 3
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The objective of the laboratory work is to familiarize the students with synthetic inorganic chemistry. The students will prepare classical transition-metal complexes, main group and organometallic compounds. Common methods and techniques for handling air-sensitive inorganic compounds such as the use of a vacuum-line, reactions under inert atmosphere, high-temperature reactions and sublimation, will be introduced and used.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN515M
    Organic Chemistry 3
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Generation of carbanions and their reactions, such as alkylation of enolates, C vs. O alkylation, aldol condensation and acylation of carbons. Decarboxylation and formation of double bonds will also be covered, along with organometallic chemistry. General and specific laboratory techniques of synthesis and analysis and the use of databases (Scifinder). Spectroscopic identification of all compounds. 75% of homework must be turned in in order to be allowed to take the exam.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN516M
    Organic Chemistry Laboratory 3
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The students will be trained to work independently in the laboratory, which serves as preparation for research projects in graduate school or on the job. Instead of standard and well-tested protocols, like found in most undergraduate laboratory classes, general descriptions from books or journal articles will be used. Each student gets his own four-step synthesis project. The students will carry out the reactions, monitor their progress and isolate the products while documenting their work in their notebooks. They will solve problems that may come up while performing their experiments, including optimization of reaction conditions if the reactions don´t work as expected the first time around. The structures of the products will be verified by spectroscopic methods, in particular NMR.

    The students will be shown how to find reaction conditions in journal articles using databases (Scifinder). The lectures will also cover how results are communicated in scientific journals. The students will write an article describing their synthetic work, instead of writing reports for each step. A template from Organic Letters will be used.

    The synthesis projects are based on the material covered in EFN511G, where the theme is formation of C-C bonds, for example by alkylation of 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds, by the use of the Wittig and Grignard reactions, aldol condensations etc.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN261L
    Research Project in Chemistry
    Elective course
    0
    Free elective course within the programme
    0 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Students are given the opportunity to conduct a special topic in chemistry under the guidance of a Faculty member. The Head of the department must accept the project and supervisor prior to registration. The project is governed by rules issued by the Department of Chemistry on such special topics. The work is completed with a short thesis which is graded by the faculty member in charge and an additional faculty member. 

    Self-study
    Prerequisites
    Part of the total project/thesis credits
  • EFN307G
    Thermodynamics and Introduction to Statistical Mechanics
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basic principles and mathematical methods in thermodynamics,laws of thermodynamics, state functions, Maxwell relations, equilibrium, phase transitions, quantum statistical mechanics, ideal and real gases, specific heat, rate theory, Bose and Fermi distributions.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    EFN510G
    Computational Chemistry G
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Methods for calculating and predicting properties of matter and the rate of transitions. Students will learn to use software for setting up and carrying out calculations of various organic and inorganic compounds and to interpret
    the results for deeper insight and understanding of chemistry. Among the methods that will be introduced for calculating electron distribution are Hartree-Fock, density functional theory and perturbation theory (MP2). The compromises that need to be made in choosing basis sets and level of theory will be discussed.  Among methods used to calculate structure of molecules and movement of atoms are minimization techniques, classical dynamics, vibrational mode analysis, Monte Carlo and transition state theory.  The coursework includes laboratory exercises  involving computer calculations.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Spring 2
  • EFN612M
    Molecular spectroscopy and reaction dynamics
    Mandatory (required) course
    8
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course deals with the determination of the structure, energy levels, and reaction dynamics of molecules using the spectra resulting from the interaction between electromagnetic radiation and matter. The fundamentals of quantum mechanics applied to molecular spectra as well as experimental aspects of modern spectroscopic methods will be covered. The focus is on rotational and vibrational spectroscopies, electronic spectroscopy including time-resolved and single-molecule techniques, nuclear magnetic resonance, and electron paramagnetic resonance. The course involves weekly assignments and visits to experimental labs.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN261L
    Research Project in Chemistry
    Elective course
    0
    Free elective course within the programme
    0 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Students are given the opportunity to conduct a special topic in chemistry under the guidance of a Faculty member. The Head of the department must accept the project and supervisor prior to registration. The project is governed by rules issued by the Department of Chemistry on such special topics. The work is completed with a short thesis which is graded by the faculty member in charge and an additional faculty member. 

    Self-study
    Prerequisites
    Part of the total project/thesis credits
  • Not taught this semester
    EFN608M
    Organic Chemistry 4
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is focused on modern methods to synthesise organic compounds with emphasis on systematic build-up of knowledge to deal with modern organic synthesis. This is added to knowledge based on previous courses in organic chemistry, Organic Chemistry 1, 2 and 3, being prerequisites to this course. The lectures will deal with various nucleophilic substitutions and electrophilic additions, modern organometallic chemistry, heterocycles, reduction and selective reducing agents, pericyclic reactions and the Woodward-Hoffmann rules, oxidations and rearrangements. Stereochemistry and stereocontrol will also be discussed and its importance in organic syntheses. Application of enzymes in organic sythesis will also be covered. Protective groups and their importance in organic sytnhesis will be discussed and systematic design and performance of organic synthesis such as umpolung, retrosynthesis, retrosynthetic analysis together with relevant concepts and theories. Finally, various classical organic synthesis of complicated natural products in historical perspectives will be described and discussed in details.

    The course is intended for chemistry graduate students and students fulfillinng the prerequisites with the main aim to enable students to understand modern total synthesis of organic compounds.

    Face-to-face learning
    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
  • EFN610M
    Inorganic Chemistry 4
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The aim of this course is to provide an overview of the diverse and fascinating discipline of advanced inorganic chemistry. The course is divided into three topics; 1) bioinorganic chemistry with emphasis on the reaction chemistry of metals in proteins; 2) Metal organic frameworks (MOFs): detailed description of the synthesis and structural analysis of MOFs and their functional properties such as gas adsorption and heterogeneous catalysis; 3) Chemistry and periodicity among metals and nonmetals. Inorganic cages, rings, and clusters. Inorganic polymers. Industrial production processes of metals and metalloids. Inorganic chemical industry in Iceland.
    The focus is to provide students with the skills, knowledge and experience to develop their minds as professionals and independent researchers. This course will help students to understand and reason, how to approach a problem and evaluate their approaches by literature review followed by their analysis.
    The minimum requirements for this course are Inorganic chemistry 1, 2 and 3. Although, the course is intended for graduate students in chemistry, it is open to others who fulfill the requirements. The main goals are to train students to read and analyse modern inorganic chemistry and chemical process in a meaningful and professional way.

    Face-to-face learning
    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
  • EFN631G
    Current topics in Chemistry and Biochemistry
    Elective course
    1
    Free elective course within the programme
    1 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures in contemporary research in chemistry and biochemistry are given by invited speakers. Guest speakers will be from within the University of Iceland and from other universities, research institutes and companies.
    Attendance is compulsory. Minimum of 10 lectures must be attended to complete the course.

    Prerequisites
  • Fall
  • EÐL301G
    Solid State and Semiconductor Physics
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basics of quantum mechanics and statistical physics. The atom. Crystal structure. The band theory of solids. Semiconductors. Transport properties of semiconductors and metals. The band theory of solids. Optical properties of semiconductors. P-n junctions. Diodes. Transistors. MOS devices. Lasers, diodes and semiconductor optics.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL302G
    Classical Mechanics
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Newtonian dynamics of a particle in various coordinate systems. Harmonic, damped and forced oscillations of a pendulum. Nonlinear oscillations and chaos. Gravitation and tidal forces. Calculus of variations. Lagrangian and Hamiltonian dynamics, generalized coordinates and constraints. Central force motion and planetary orbits. Dynamics of a system of particles, collisions in a center-of-mass coordinate system and in a lab system. Motion in a non-inertial reference frame, Coriolis and centrifugal forces. Motion relative to the Earth. Mechanics of rigid bodies, inertia tensors and principal axes of inertia. Eulerian angles, and Euler's equations for a rigid body. Precession, motion of a symmetric top and stability of rigid body rotations. Coupled oscillations, eigenfrequencies and normal modes.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL506G
    Nuclei and Particles
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is devoted to the foundations of nuclear and elementary particle physics. It consists of the lectures on the corresponding theory and a laboratory of 2 week duration. In theoretical part students learn about basic ideas of nuclear physics, such as simplest nuclear models, basics of the scattering physics, types of elementary particles and their fundamental interactions. After that basics of the relativistic wave equations are introduced. The cases of Klein-Gordon, Higgs, and Dirac equations are considered. Higgs equation is used to introduce the fundamental concept of spontaneous symmetry breaking, necessary for the understanding of the appearance of a Higgs boson.  Solution of the Dirac equation for free particles is analyzed, and related fundamental concepts of antiparticles, helicity and chirality are considered in detail. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL509M
    Quantum Mechanics 1
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The postulates and formalism of quantum mechanics. One-dimensional systems. Angular momentum, spin, two level systems. Particles in a central potential, the hydrogen atom. Approximation methods. Time independent and time dependent perturbation. Scattering.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL520M
    Condensed Matter Physics 1
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is an introduction to some basic concepts of condensed matter physics. Curriculum: Chemical bonds, crystal structure, crystal symmetry, the reciprocal lattice. Vibrational modes of crystals, phonons, specific heat, thermal conductivity. The free electron model, band structure of condensed matter, effective mass. Metals, insulators and semiconductors. The course includes three labs.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • IÐN103G
    Engineering Management
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The purpose of the course is to prepare students for working in technology-based firms and organizations. The course will give an overview of the management of firms and organizations, the role of engineers and the challenges they face. Students will learn about analysis tools used in decision making, interpret the results, and communicate both orally and in writing.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • JEÐ502M
    Groundwater Hydrology
    Elective course
    7,5
    Free elective course within the programme
    7,5 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    A 7-week intensive course (first 7 weeks of fall term). 

    Taught if sufficient number of students. May be taugth as a reading course.

    Occurrence of groundwater, the water content of soil, properties and types of aquifers (porosity, retention, yield, storage coefficients; unconfined, confined, leaky, homogeneous, isotropic aquifers). Principles of groundwater flow. Darcy's law, groundwater potential, potentiometric surface, hydraulic conductivity, transmissivity, permeability, determination of hydraulic conductivity in homogeneous and anisotropic aquifers, permeability, flow lines and flow nets, refraction of flow lines, steady and unsteady flow in confined, unconfined and leaky aquifers, general flow equations. Groundwater flow to wells, drawdown and recovery caused by pumping wells, determination of aquifer parameters from time-drawdown data, well loss, capacity and efficiency. Sea-water intrusion in coastal aquifers. Mass transport of solutes by groundwater flow. Quality and pollution of groundwater. Case histories from groundwater studies in Iceland. Numerical models of groundwater flow.   Students carry out an interdisciplinary project on groundwater hydrology and management.

    Face-to-face learning
    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • LEF302G
    Biochemistry 1
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    A thorough treatment of the fundamentals of biochemistry - part one; structure and function of macromolecules. The scope of biochemistry. Water and its properties. Interactions in biomolecules. Amino acids, peptides and the structure of proteins. Protein function.  Protein stability, folding, and dynamics related to function. Carbohydrates and glycobiology. Lipids, membranes and membrane proteins. Enzyme kinetics, regulation of enzyme activity, and mechanisms of enzyme catalysis. Signal transduction and membrane receptors. Structure of nucleic acids, stability, and basic recombinant technology. Final grade is combined from the final exam (85% ) and a midterm exam (15%).

    Lectures:
    Twice weekly (2 x 40 min.) Probelm solving class (2 x 40 min.) weekly.

    Course evaluation:
    Final exam (3 hours): 85% of final grade.
    Midterm: 15% of final grade.

    Textbook:
    Nelson D.L. & Cox M.M. Lehninger: Principles of Biochemistry, 8th Edition, 2021

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF501M
    Biochemistry 3
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Practical class with accompanying lectures where practical and theoretical aspects of the experiments are discussed. Enzyme purification by hydrophobic, ion-exchange, affinity and gel filtration chromatography. Gel electrophoresis. Enzyme kinetics and inhibitors. Specific chemical modification of enzymes. Thermal stability of proteins. Ligand-protein interactions. Immunoprecipitation. Restriction enzymes and agarose electrophoresis.  Bioinformatics by computer.

    Practical projects:
    The following laboratory sessions are performed: Enzyme kinetics and the effect of inhibitors. Purification of enzymes by hydrophobic interactions, ion-exchange chromatography, affinity chromatography, and gel-filtration. Electrophoresis of protein and nucleic acids. Stability of proteins toward heating and urea/guanidinium assessed by activity measurements, UV-absorbance and circular dichroism. Determination of activation enery (Ea) and Gibb’s free energy. Specific reactions of amino acid side-chains in proteins for determining number of disulfide bonds and thiol groups. Action of reactive compounds as proteinase inhibitors differentiating between serine and cysteine proteases. Digestion of DNA by restriction enzymes and melting of DNA under various conditions that affect its stability. Preparation of samples for mass spectrometry by trypsin digestion and spotting of samples for MALDI-MS. Fingerprint identification using the computer program and database of Mascot. Bioinformatics and analysis of protein structures on the computer screen (e.q. BLAST, DeepView).

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF509M
    Applied Biochemistry
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Aimed at introducing students to aspects of applied biochemistry and biotechnology with emphasis on protein biotechnology. Lectures: Use of proteins in industry and medicine. Industrial use of enzymes. Enzyme reactors. Applications of immobilized enzymes. Biosensors. Use of recombinant DNA technology to genetically engineer organisms for production of biochemicals. Analytical biochemistry. Automaton in bioanalysis. Purification of bioproducts; scaling up of production lines and downstream processing. Tutorials: Recent research papers presented and discussed.

    Teaching methods:
    Lectures (about 40). Student lectures based on selected scientific papers.

    The course is taught together with ILT102F - Introduction to Applied Biotechnology. Students can only take one of the courses, not both. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÍF109G
    Genetics
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures: Mendelian inheritance. Sex chromosomes. Cytoplasmic inheritance. Chromosomes. Cell division (mitosis and meiosis). Life cycles. Linkage and recombination in eukaryotes. Bacterial genetics. Gene mapping and tetrad analysis. Genotype and phenotype. Chromosomal changes. DNA: Structure and replication. RNA: Transcription. Rgulation of gene transcription. Gene isolation and manipulation. Genomics. Transposons.  Mutations. Repair and recombination.  Model organisms. Laboratory work: : I. The fruitfly Drosophila melanogaster. II. Mitosis in onions. III. Plasmids and restriction enzymes. IV. PCR. V. Analysis of asci from Sordaria fimicola.

    Exam: Laboratory and problems 25%, written 75%. Minimum mark needed for each part.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÍF315G
    Cell Biology
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The cell biology part includes four lectures each week for 14 weeks (4L week for 14 weeks). The content includes: Introduction to cell biology, structure and evolution of eukaryotic cells. The main emphasis is on eukaryotic cells. Chemistry of the cell and energy conversion, structure and function of cellular macromolecules. The structure and function of cellular organs and functional units like the cell membrane, nucleus, mitochondria, chloroplasts, cytoskeleton, golgi-system, lysosomes and peroxisomes. Intracellular regulation and signal pathways linked to communication between cells, together with cell differentiation and cancer. Details on extracellular matrix are included and basic immunology.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÍF523G
    Methods in Molecular Biology
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is divided into lectures, practical sessions, discussions and student projects.

    Lectures: Theoretical basis of common molecular-biology techniques and their application in research. Course material provided by teachers.

    Laboratory practice in molecular biology techniques: Training in general molecular biology laboratory skills and active documentation in laboratory notebooks.

    Discussions are associated with all other parts (lectures, practicals and student projects)

    Main topics:  Laboratory notebooks, electronic laboratory notebooks and standard operating procedures (SOP's), use of online tools. Basics of DNA work and DNA cloning. Plasmids and plasmid maps, working with DNA sequences. DNA and RNA isolation and quantification (Southern and Northern blotting, PCR, RT-PCR, qRT-PCR), restriction enzymes, DNA sequencing techniques and data analysis. Basics of E. coli cultures and plasmid work. Basics of cell culture and transfection. Model organisms: E.coli, S. cerevisiae, C. reinhardtii, A. thaliana, C. elegans, D. melanogaster, M. musculus.  Transgenesis and genetic tools in bacteria, yeast and multicellular organisms. CRISPR technique and gRNA design. RNA interference and other methods for conditional gene expression and inhibition. Protein expression and analysis. How to raise and use antibodies for research. Western blot, immunostaining of cells and tissues, radioactive techniques. Microscopy in molecular biology. Methods used in recent research papers will be discussed.

    Student projects: Study of a recent method or method group. Output varies by year but aims at training students in reference work and different approaches to mediating scientific material. Examples include: Posters, Essays, Talks, Videos, Webpages and Podcasts.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LYF301G
    Microbiology and Virology
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course consists of two main parts, microbiology and infectious diseases. These parts are intergraded and provide the basis for knowledge and understanding of the characteristics of different pathogens and their relations to infectious diseases, preventions and treatment.  

    Teaching/learning procedures
    In the teaching is based on lectures and includes following parts:

    1. Bacteriology – basics
    2. Bacteriology – species/groups and bacterial infections in diverse organs and organ systems 
    3. Virology and viral infections, prions
    4. Mycology and fungal infections
    5. Parasitology and parasitic infections

    The students deliver their projects by introduction and/or reports, Exams are in each part of the course, during or following.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ302G
    Mathematical Analysis III
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Functions of a complex variable. Analytic functions. The exponential function, logarithms and roots. Cauchy's Integral Theorem and Cauchy's Integral Formula. Uniform convergence. Power series. Laurent series. Residue integration method. Application of complex function theory to fluid flows. Ordinary differential equations and systems of ordinary differential equations. Linear differential equations with constant coefficients. Systems of linear differential equations. The matrix exponential function. Various methods for obtaining a particular solution. Green's functions for initial value problems. Flows and the phase plane. Nonlinear systems of ordinary differential equations in the plane, equilibrium points, stability and linear approximations. Series solutions and the method of Frobenius. Use of Laplace transforms in solving differential equations.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    STÆ505M
    Partial Differential Equations
    Elective course
    10
    Free elective course within the programme
    10 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The object of the course is to give a firm and rigorous foundation for more advanced studies in partial differential equations. Contents: first order equations; the Cauchy-Kowalevski theorem; techniques of analysis (Lebesgue-integral, convolutions, Fourier-transform); distributions; fundamental solutions; the Laplace operator; the heat operator.  The course is mainly intended for postgraduate students with a good background in analysis.

    Distance learning
    Prerequisites
  • TÖL101G
    Computer Science 1
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The Java programming language will be used to introduce basic practices in computer programming. Practice in programming is scheduled throughout the semester. An emphasis is placed on logical methods for writing program and good documentation. Main ideas related to computers and programming. Classes, objects and methods. Control statements. Strings and arrays, operations and built-in functons. Input and output. Inheritance. Ideas relatied to system design and good practices for program writing. Iteration and recursion. Searching and Sorting.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    VÉL102M
    Energy Intensive Production Processes
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The aim of the course is:- To give students overview of processes in materials engineering;- To encourage students to think about feasible ways to utilize renewable energy. The course will cover the industrial processes in some of the larger Icelandic companies, including the production of ferro-alloys, aluminium smelting, rockwool production, recycling of steel, algea and diatomitemining, and production of sodium chlorine, fertilizers, cement. The course will also cover some of the larger material engineering processes that are not in practice in Iceland but may be a feasible option for Icelandic industry. Students will get good overview of the processes, required materials, source of power and power consumption, pollution, products etc. Discussions will be held on the financial background for individual processes, covering aspects such as production cost, profit and the influences of market share changes. Grades are based on 2 larger projects the students work on through the semester. Field trips are an important part of the course.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • VÉL301G
    Engineering Materials
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The objective of the course is to teach the fundamental principles of materials science so the student can better understand material behavior and select appropriate materials for a given application. Theoretical basis is given for the understanding of material behaviour from a microscopic view. The course includes the following topics: crystalline structures, imperfections, diffusion, mechanical properties, deformation and strengthening mechanisms, fracture and fatique, phase diagrams, phase transformations, thermal processing of metal alloys, types of materials (metal alloys, polymers, ceramics, composites), corrosion and degradation of of materials. The course includes homework problems and practical classes in laboratory.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • VÉL502G
    Fluid Mechanics
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Properties of liquids and gases. Pressure and force fields in liquids at rest, pressure gauges. Equations of motion, continuity, momentum and energy. Bernoulli equation of motion. Dimensional analysis and dynamic similarity. Two dimensional flow, non-viscous fluids, boundary layers theory, laminar and turbulent flow, fluid friction and form drag. Flow of compressible fluids, velocity of sound. Mach number, sound waves, nozzle shape for supersonic speed. Open channel flow. Several experiments are conducted.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Spring 2
  • EÐL610M
    General Relativity
    Elective course
    10
    Free elective course within the programme
    10 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course provides a basic introduction to Einstein's relativity theory: Special relativity, four-vectors and tensors. General relativity, spacetime curvature, the equivalence principle, Einstein's equations, experimental tests within the solar system, gravitational waves, black holes, cosmology.

    Teachers: Benjamin Knorr and Ziqi Yan, postdocs at Nordita

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL616M
    Modern Experimental Physics
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Presentation of important techniques used in experimental physics and of various phenomena related to the subject matter of the second and third year of the Physics curriculum. Six extensive experiments are made, most of which are related to active research in experimental physics at the Science Institute of the University of Iceland.  The course emphasizes independence in carrying out the experiments, data analysis and literature search.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    EÐL620M
    Life in the Universe
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    An introduction to astrobiology. Formation of the elements in the primordial plasma. Formation of heavy elements in stars and in their environments. Origin of galaxies, stellar systems, stars and planets. Formation of molecules and dust in the interstellar medium. Properties of Carbon and other elements necessary for life. Topics in biochemistry and thermodynamics. Origin and evolution of the Earth. Origin of water. The atmosphere. The Earth compared to other planets. What is life and what does it need? Origin and evolution of life on Earth. Life in extreme environments. Asteroids and impacts with the Earth. Effects of nearby supernovas. Is there life elsewhere in the Solar System, e.g. on Mars, Europa or Titan? Habitable worlds in the Universe. Extrasolar planets. The search for extraterrestrial intelligence. The Fermi paradox. Anthropic reasoning.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EVF401G
    Material and Energy Balances
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Introduction to processes and material and energy balance calculations applied to industrial processes. Analysis of gas behavior, gas-liquid systems, and phase equilibrium. Material balances, including reaction systems and multiple-unit systems. Energy balances, including reaction systems and multiple-unit systems, and combined energy-material balances.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EVF601M
    Process Design
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    A systematic introduction to the use of process simulators (like Aspen) to model, design and optimize chemical manufacturing processes. The selection, optimization and combination of reactors, separation equipment and heat exchangers. An introduction to the concepts and principles of project economics.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EVF602M
    Reaction Design
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Design of chemical reactors for economical processes and waste minimization. Contacting patterns, kinetics and transport rate effects in single phase and catalytic systems. Another goal of the course is to introduce the fundamentals of mass transfer in chemical engineering such as the mass transfer theory and how to set up differential equations and solve them for such systems.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • IÐN405G
    Design & Experimental Execution
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The purpose of the course is to train an engineering approach to experiments and experimental thinking. Experiments are designed, carried out, data collected and processed using statistical methods. Finally, it discussed how conclusions can be drawn from data / information when using experiments in for example product design and the design and operation of production systems.

    Course material: Linear and non-linear regression analysis. Analysis of Variances (ANOVA). Design of experiments. Statistical quality control. Non-parametric tests that can be used in data processing. Use of statistical programs when solving tasks.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF406G
    Biochemistry 2
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    In this course, the main metabolic processes of cells are studied, with a focus on carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism, as well as the metabolic regulation of these processes. The course begins with a detailed examination of carbohydrate metabolism, including glycolysis (both aerobic and anaerobic), the citric acid cycle, and the pentose phosphate pathway. Then we continue into pathways such as gluconeogenesis, glycogen breakdown, and then into how carbohydrate metabolism is regulated.

    Next, the focus shifts to fat metabolism, where the breakdown of triglycerides, fatty acid oxidation, and fatty acid synthesis are explained. Special emphasis is placed on the regulation of fat metabolism and the control of enzymes involved in these processes. Following this, protein metabolism is addressed, where protein hydrolysis, amino acid degradation, and the urea cycle are studied.

    The course also covers the integration and regulation of metabolic pathways, with a focus on the complex regulation that occurs in the key steps of these pathways, considering both intracellular signals and hormones. It examines how these processes adapt to various conditions to maintain homeostasis and the effects of disruptions in their regulation. Lastly, photosynthesis and the Calvin cycle are covered.

    This course is highly beneficial for those seeking an in-depth understanding of biochemical processes and the biochemistry of the human body.

    Lectures are held twice a week (2 x 40 minutes) over 13-14 weeks. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF616M
    Structure and Function of Proteins
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The characteristics of protein structures at the different structural levels. How structure determines the different properties of proteins. Structural classes of proteins and their characteristics. Relationship between molecular structure and biological function. Interactions that determine structural stability of proteins. Protein folding and unfolding. Effects of different parameters, e.g. temperature, pH, salts and denaturants on protein stability. Techniques used for determination structure and different properties proteins. Selected topics in protein structure function relationships.

    Course plan: Lectures twice per week (2x40 min. each time). Computer lab once per week (2x40 min.). Lab sessions involve training using the WWW to study proteins. Tutorials and practice of using SwissPDBviewer program for solving specific assignments related to topics covered in lectures.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF617M
    Biochemistry 4
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course focuses on methodology and recent innovations in biochemistry, emphasizing both analytical and computational techniques. It is divided into several modules, each taught by experts in their respective fields. While lectures form the core of the material, additional resources such as articles or book chapters may be assigned when appropriate. Practical demonstrations of research equipment may also be included. Students are expected to submit several written assignments throughout the semester.

    The course will explore recent research in various specialized areas of biochemistry, and the content of the modules is regularly updated.

    Topics covered may include single-molecule spectroscopy, protein mass spectrometry, structural biochemistry, binding affinity and thermodynamics, enzymology, and computational biochemistry.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    LÍF620M
    Ecotoxicology
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The objectives of the course are to introduce students to important pollutants, their characteristics and distribution, with emphasis on their effects on organisms. The first part of the course deals with the major classes of pollutants (Metals, Organic pollutants, Radioactivity), their origin, behaviour and characteristics. The second part focuses on bioavailability, bioaccumulation and bioconcentration and the effects of the pollutants on organisms. Biomarkers and bioassays will be discussed. The third part of the course deals with pollutants in arctic and subarctic areas, with emphasis on Iceland. Practical classes consist of four large projects.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÍF644M
    Molecular Genetics
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures: The molecular basis of life (chemical bonds, biological molecules, structure of DNA, RNA and proteins). Genomes and the flow of biological information. Chromosome structure and function, chromatin and nucleosomes. The cell cycle, DNA replication. Chromosome segregaition, Transcription. Regulation of transcription. RNA processing. Translation. Regulation of translation. Regulatory RNAs. Protein modification and targeting. DNA damage, checkpoints and DNA repair mechanisms. Repair of DNA double-strand breaks and homologous recombination. Mobile DNA elements. Tools and techniques in molecular Biology icluding Model organisms.

    Seminar: Students present and discuss selected research papers and hand in a short essay.

    Laboratory work: Work on molecular genetics project relevant to current research. Basic methods such as gene cloning, gene transfer and expression, PCR, sequencing, DNA isolation and restriction analysis, electrophoresis of DNA and proteins will be used.

    Exam: Laboratory 10%, seminar 15%, written final exam 75%.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    LVF601M
    Introduction to Systems Biology
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Systems biology is an interdisciplinary field that studies the biological phenomena that emerge from multiple interacting biological elements. Understanding how biological systems change across time is a particular focus of systems biology. In this course, we will prioritize aspects of systems biology relevant to human health and disease.

    This course provides an introduction to 1) basic principles in modelling molecular networks, both gene regulatory and metabolic networks; 2) cellular phenomena that support homeostasis like tissue morphogenesis and microbiome resilience, and 3) analysis of molecular patterns found in genomics data at population scale relevant to human disease such as patient classification and biomarker discovery. In this manner, the course covers the three major scales in systems biology: molecules, cells and organisms.

    The course activities include reading and interpreting scientific papers, implementation of computational algorithms, working on a research project and presentation of scientific results.

    Lectures will comprise of both (1) presentations on foundational concepts and (2) hands-on sessions using Python as the programming language. The course will be taught in English.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ202G
    Sets and Metric Spaces
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Elements of set theory: Sets. Mappings. Relations, equivalence relations, orderings. Finite, infinite, countable and uncountable sets. Equipotent sets. Construction of the number systems. Metric spaces: Open sets and closed sets, convergent sequences and Cauchy sequences, cluster points of sets and limit points of sequences. Continuous mappings, convergence, uniform continuity. Complete metric spaces. Uniform convergence and interchange of limits. The Banach fixed point theorem; existence theorem about solutions of first-order differential equations. Completion of metric spaces. Compact metric spaces. Connected sets. Infinite series, in particular function series.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ211G
    Mathematics for Physicists I
    Elective course
    2
    Free elective course within the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Python tools related to data analysis and plotting. Mathematical concepts such as vectors, matrices, differential operators in three dimensions, coordinate transformations, partial differential equations and Fourier series and their relation to undergraduate courses in physics and engineering. We will emphasize applications and problem solving.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL408G
    Mathematics for Physicists II
    Elective course
    2
    Free elective course within the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Python tools related to data analysis and manipulation of graphs. Differential equations and their use in the description of physical systems. Partial differential equations and boundary value problems. Special functions and their relation to important problems in physics. We will emphasize applications and problem solving.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ401G
    Mathematical Analysis IV
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Aim: To introduce the student to Fourier analysis and partial differential equations and their applications.
    Subject matter: Fourier series and orthonormal systems of functions, boundary-value problems for ordinary differential equations, the eigenvalue problem for Sturm-Liouville operators, Fourier transform. The wave equation, diffusion equation and Laplace's equation solved on various domains in one, two and three dimensions by methods based on the first part of the course, separation of variables, fundamental solution, Green's functions and the method of images.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ405G
    Numerical Analysis
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Fundamental concepts on approximation and error estimates. Solutions of systems of linear and non-linear equations. PLU decomposition. Interpolating polynomials, spline interpolation and regression. Numerical differentiation and integration. Extrapolation. Numerical solutions of initial value problems of systems of ordinary differential equations. Multistep methods. Numerical solutions to boundary value problems for ordinary differential equations.

    Grades are given for programning projects and in total they amount to 30% of the final grade. The student has to receive the minimum grade of 5 for both the projects and the final exam.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • TÖL203G
    Computer Science 2
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The programming language Java will be used in the course. Various data structures, algorithms and abstract data types will be covered. Among the data types and structures covered are lists, stacks, queues, priority queues, trees, binary trees, binary search trees and heaps along with related algorithms. Various search and sort algorithms will be covered. Algorithms will be analysed for their space and time complexity. There will be programming assignments in Java using the given data structures and algorithms. There will be many small assignments.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • VÉL405G
    Energy Processes
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Goal: Enable the students to: 1: Study thermodynamics from the viewpoint of the second law of thermodynamics 2. Understand standard power cycles, and their use for analysis of power plants 3. Understand air conditioning systems and their necessity 4. Understand thermochemistry and be able to estimate heat release through combustion. Content: Work, heat and energy conversion. Exergy and anergy. Energy, energy price and energy quality. Standard power and refrigeration cycles. Steam power cycles, geothermal utilization. Gas mixtures, moist air, ventilation and air purifiers. The Mollier i-x chart. Thermochemistry, combustion and reactions, chemical equilibrium. New energy systems. Exercises, design project.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • VÉL601G
    Heat Transfer
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Heat conduction, one and two dimensional systems, steady and unsteady heat conduction, numerical analysis of heat conduction systems. Fins and enlarged heat transfer surfaces. Heat transfer by convection, laminar and turbulent flow. Free and forced convection. Evaporation and condensation. Thermal radiation, Stefan-Boltzmann's and Planck's laws. Thermal radiation properties of materials. Shape factors, radiative heat exchange between surfaces, radiation properties of gases. Heat exchangers and their design. Special topics in heat transfer.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • SAG448G
    Episodes from the history of philosophy of science
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course aims to introduce students to the nature and development of science by examining episodes of its history and by disucssing recent theories concerning the nature, aims, and development of science. A special emphasis will be placed on the history of physical science from Aristotle to Newton, including developments in astronomy during the scientific revolution of the 16th and 17th century. We will also specifically examine the history of Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. These episodes and many others will be viewed through the lens of various theories of scientific progress, and through recent views about interactions between science and society at large. The course material may change depending on the students’ interest.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • SAG817M
    Episodes from the history of philosophy of science
    Elective course
    10
    Free elective course within the programme
    10 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course aims to introduce students to the nature and development of science by examining episodes of its history and by disucssing recent theories concerning the nature, aims, and development of science. A special emphasis will be placed on the history of physical science from Aristotle to Newton, including developments in astronomy during the scientific revolution of the 16th and 17th century. We will also specifically examine the history of Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. These episodes and many others will be viewed through the lens of various theories of scientific progress, and through recent views about interactions between science and society at large. The course material may change depending on the students’ interest.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
Second year
  • Fall
  • EÐL102G
    Physics 1 V
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Concepts, units, scales and dimensions. Vectors. Kinematics of particles. Particle dynamics, inertia, forces and Newton's laws. Friction. Work and energy, conservation of energy. Momentum, collisions. Systems of particles, center of mass. Rotation of a rigid body. Angular momentum and moment of inertia. Statics. Gravity. Solids and fluids, Bernoulli's equation. Oscillations: Simple, damped and forced. Waves. Sound. Temperature. Ideal gas. Heat and the first law of thermodynamics. Kinetic theory of gases. Entropy and the second law of thermodynamics. Home problems: Once a week the students have to solve homeproblems on the website MasteringPhysics.

    Laboratory work: Three exercises, mainly centered on mechanics, where students are trained in handling physical instruments, collecting and inspecting data. Students hand in their lab notebooks for a grade.

    Note that the textbook is accessible to students via Canvas free of charge.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN108G
    General Chemistry 1
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The basis of the atomic theory. Stoichiometry. Types of chemical reactions and solution stoichiometry. Properties of gases. Chemical equilibrium. Acids and bases. Applications of aqueous equilibria. Chemical thermodynamics. Enthropy, free energy and equilibrium. Electrochemistry. Chemical kinetics. Physical properties of solutions.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN109G
    Chemistry Laboratory 1
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Molar volume of gases, thermochemistry, reaction enthalpies and Hesse's law, Rate of chemical reactions, decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, reaction reversibility and Le Chatelier's principle, determination of acid ionization constants, oxidation-reduction; electrochemistry, thermodynamics of an electrochemical cell.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN114G
    Introduction to Scientific Programming
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The goal of this course is to learn how to use the programming language Python for scientific programming. The basics of scientific computing, such as flow control with logical operators and loops, are explained. Plotting data in 1D, 2D and 3D will be taught, extracting data and changing it, evaluating sums, and how you can calculate simple problems in linear algebra (vectors and matrices). The course starts in week 6 and spans for 9 weeks of the semester. A written examination taken at a computer terminal constitutes 60% of the final mark. Projects handed in during the semester yield the other 40%.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ104G
    Mathematical Analysis I
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This is a foundational course in single variable calculus. The prerequisites are high school courses on algebra, trigonometry. derivatives, and integrals. The course aims to create a foundation for understanding of subjects such as natural and physical sciences, engineering, economics, and computer science. Topics of the course include the following:

    • Real numbers.
    • Limits and continuous functions.
    • Differentiable functions, rules for derivatives, derivatives of higher order, applications of differential calculus (extremal value problems, linear approximation).
    • Transcendental functions.
    • Mean value theorem, theorems of l'Hôpital and Taylor.
    • Integration, the definite integral and rules/techniques of integration, primitives, improper integrals.
    • Fundamental theorem of calculus.
    • Applications of integral calculus: Arc length, area, volume, centroids.
    • Ordinary differential equations: First-order separable and homogeneous differential equations, first-order linear equations, second-order linear equations with constant coefficients.
    • Sequences and series, convergence tests.
    • Power series, Taylor series.
    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ107G
    Linear Algebra
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basics of linear algebra over the reals.  

    Subject matter: Systems of linear equations, matrices, Gauss-Jordan reduction.  Vector spaces and their subspaces.  Linearly independent sets, bases and dimension.  Linear maps, range space and nullk space.  The dot product, length and angle measures.  Volumes in higher dimension and the cross product in threedimensional space.  Flats, parametric descriptions and descriptions by equations.  Orthogonal projections and orthonormal bases.  Gram-Schmidt orthogonalization.  Determinants and inverses of matrices.  Eigenvalues, eigenvectors and diagonalization.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Spring 2
  • EÐL208G
    Physics 2 E
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is taught together with EÐL201G. The class is given for 8 weeks (spread over 11 week period).Topics: Charge and electric field. Gauss' law. Electric potential. Capacitors and dielectrics. Electric currents and resistance. Magnetic fields. The laws of Ampère and Faraday. Induction. Maxwell's equations. Electromagnetic waves. Reflection and refraction. Lenses and mirrors. Wave optics. Two laboratory exercises in optics.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN202G
    General Chemistry 2
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course focuses on the structure of the periodic table and properties of the elements based on their place in the periodic table. The students learn about the naturally occurring forms of the elements, isolation of the elements and common chemical reactions. Atomic theory is taught as a base for understanding the properties of the elements and their reactivity. Early theories of the structure of the hydrogen atome put forward by Bohr and their development to modern view of the atom structure are covered. The electronic structure of the atom is described, and theories describing formation of chemical bonds such as valence bond theory, VSEPR, and molecular orbital theory are used to determine structures and predict reactivity of molecules. Processes for purification of metals from their naturally occurring ores is covered as well as properties of metalloids and nonmetals. The transition metal elements, and the formation of coordination compounds with solubility, equilibria, ions and electron pair donors will be introduced. Radioactivity, formation and types of radioactive species, reactions and their applications will be introduced.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN208G
    Analytical Chemistry
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Review of fundamental concepts in quantitative analysis. Gravimetric methods. Chemical equilibria: Acid-base, precipitation, complexation, oxidation-reduction. Theory and applications of titrations based on the aforementioned equilibria. Introduction to the electrochemistry. Potentiometric and electrogravimetric methods.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN209G
    Chemistry Laboratory 3
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course contains independent, individual exercises in qualitative analyses. The student will conduct analyses of cations from the first, second, third and fourth group as well as selected anions. Supporting lectures accompany the laboratory work.

    In the first half of the course, students will analyze prepared aqueous solutions of unknown compositions. In the second half the student will analyze unknown metallic alloys and salt compositions.

    The student will keep a laboratory workbook during the whole course and hand it in for evaluation at the end of every exercise section.

    The final grade is composed of the teacher’s grade for performance, the grade for the laboratory workbook and the grade for a short oral examination at the end of the course.

    Book: Qualitative Analysis and the Property of Ions in aqueous solutions, 2. Ed., by Slowinski and Masterton.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN210G
    Chemistry Laboratory 2
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Standardization of a pipette. Quantitative determinations of Ni in steel, Ca in milk, Na in water and wine.  Quantitative analysis of acetic acid and hydrogenperoxide. Identification of amino acid. Quantitative analysis of fluoride using electochemical cells.  Two component analysis using photometry.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • STÆ203G
    Probability and Statistics
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basic concepts in probability and statistics based on univariate calculus. 

    Topics: 
    Sample space, events, probability, equal probability, independent events, conditional probability, Bayes rule, random variables, distribution, density, joint distribution, independent random variables, condistional distribution, mean, variance, covariance, correlation, law of large numbers, Bernoulli, binomial, Poisson, uniform, exponential and normal random variables. Central limit theorem. Poisson process. Random sample, statistics, the distribution of the sample mean and the sample variance. Point estimate, maximum likelihood estimator, mean square error, bias. Interval estimates and hypotheses testing form normal, binomial and exponential samples. Simple linear regression. Goodness of fit tests, test of independence.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ213G
    Mathematical Analysis IIE
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Open and closed sets. Mappings, limits and continuity. Differentiable mappings, partial derivatives and the chain rule. Jacobi matrices. Gradients and directional derivatives. Mixed partial derivatives. Curves. Vector fields and flow. Cylindrical and spherical coordinates. Extreme values and the classification of stationary points. Extreme value problems with constraints.  Line integrals, primitive functions and exact differential equations. Double integrals. Improper integrals.  Change of variables in double integrals. Multiple integrals. Change of variables in multiple integrals. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Fall
  • EÐL306G
    Introduction to Quantum Mechanics
    Restricted elective course
    8
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is devoted to theoretical foundations of wave and quantum mechanics. The main concepts characterizing classical waves, such as wave equation, plane waves, wavepackets and phase and group velocity are discussed and then, after the introduction of the concept of particle-wave dualism are used to describe the properties of the de Broglie material waves corresponding to quantum particles. Dynamic and stationary Schrodinger equations are introduced, and their solutions for a set of physically important particular cases, including quantum tunneling, quantum potential well, quantum harmonic oscillator and Coulomb potential are analyzed in all necessary detail. The last part of the course is devoted to the quantum description of spin.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN311G
    Physical Chemistry A
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Content of course: Energy and the first law of thermodynamics. Chemical thermodynamics. Entropy and the second law of thermodynamics. The third  law of thermodynamics. Free energy. Phase equilibrium. Solutions, in particular ionic solutions. Chemical equilibrium. Electrochemistry. Transport processes: gas kinetics, diffusion and heat transport. Mechanism and rate of chemical reactions. Enzyme catalysis.

    Text book:  Atkins' Physical Chemistry 11th Edition

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN315G
    Thermodynamics and Introduction to Statistical Mechanics V
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basic principles and mathematical methods in thermodynamics,
    laws of thermodynamics, state functions, Maxwell relations, equilibrium, phase transitions, quantum statistical mechanics, ideal and real gases, specific heat, rate theory.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF302G
    Biochemistry 1
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    A thorough treatment of the fundamentals of biochemistry - part one; structure and function of macromolecules. The scope of biochemistry. Water and its properties. Interactions in biomolecules. Amino acids, peptides and the structure of proteins. Protein function.  Protein stability, folding, and dynamics related to function. Carbohydrates and glycobiology. Lipids, membranes and membrane proteins. Enzyme kinetics, regulation of enzyme activity, and mechanisms of enzyme catalysis. Signal transduction and membrane receptors. Structure of nucleic acids, stability, and basic recombinant technology. Final grade is combined from the final exam (85% ) and a midterm exam (15%).

    Lectures:
    Twice weekly (2 x 40 min.) Probelm solving class (2 x 40 min.) weekly.

    Course evaluation:
    Final exam (3 hours): 85% of final grade.
    Midterm: 15% of final grade.

    Textbook:
    Nelson D.L. & Cox M.M. Lehninger: Principles of Biochemistry, 8th Edition, 2021

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN304G
    Inorganic Chemistry 1
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The main purpose of this course is to teach the principles of chemical structure and bonding. The main focus will be on using symmetry and group theory in constructing molecular orbitals for simple molecules and ions. VSEPR and VB methods will also be used to study bonding and structure of molecules. The crystalline solid state, formulas, structures and properties. Each students performance in two interm exams will count as 20% of the final grade. The assignments will count as 5% of the final grade

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN309G
    Organic Chemistry I
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Organic chemistry appears all around us, both in the biological aspects of our world and in the production aspect of many of our daily products. Organic chemistry also appears in many other subjects, such as biochemistry, pharmaceutical science, food science, and medicine. Understanding of the organic chemistry can help deepen our understanding of  production processes in the chemical and food industry, biochemical pathways, and the manufacturing and bioactivity of drugs.

    In this course, we will cover the basics of organic chemistry. We will cover the various functional groups, their properties and reactivity, with a special emphasis on alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, alkyl halides, and aromatic compounds. We will also cover stereochemistry of organic compounds and their analysis and identification using NMR, IR, and MS.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN310G
    Organic Chemistry Laboratory 1
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Many of the compounds we use in our daily lives (plastics, medicine, glue and more) are produced via organic chemistry. The pharmaceutical industry is a good example of where it is important to be able to synthesize the right products, isolate/purify them and identify whether the correct product was synthesized. In this course, students will be trained in the main laboratory techniques of organic chemistry and can be beneficial in the chemical industry. Students will also receive training in analyzing their results and writing scientific reports.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • Spring 2
  • EFN410G
    Physical Chemistry B
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Content of course: Principles of quantum mechanics. Chemical bonds. Intermolecular- interactions. Relationship between quantum chemistry and spectroscopy. Spectroscopic methods. Spectral analysis. Introduction to laboratory exercises.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ405G
    Numerical Analysis
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Fundamental concepts on approximation and error estimates. Solutions of systems of linear and non-linear equations. PLU decomposition. Interpolating polynomials, spline interpolation and regression. Numerical differentiation and integration. Extrapolation. Numerical solutions of initial value problems of systems of ordinary differential equations. Multistep methods. Numerical solutions to boundary value problems for ordinary differential equations.

    Grades are given for programning projects and in total they amount to 30% of the final grade. The student has to receive the minimum grade of 5 for both the projects and the final exam.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN404G
    Inorganic Chemistry 2
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures: Summary of the chemistry of the main group elements. Coordination chemistry of the transition metals with main emphasis on bonding, structures, magnetic properties and electronic spectra. Each students performance in two interm exams will count as 25% of the final grade.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN406G
    Organic Chemistry 2
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Alcohols and phenols, ethers and epoxides, aldehydes and ketones, carboxylic acids, derivatives carbanions, amines, carbohydrates, amino acids and proteins. Spectroscopical identification of organic compounds.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN407G
    Organic Chemistry Laboratory 2
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Laboratory work: Synthesis and analytical organic chemistry.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN413G
    Physical Chemistry Laboratory AB
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Experiments: Solution calorimeter. Enthalpy of combustion (bomb calorimeter). Phase diagrams and distillation of liquid solutions. Chemical equilibrium and solubility derived from conductivity measurements. Reaction kinetics (rate equations). Electrolyte solutions. Heat of vaporization. Viscosity. Spectroscopy of organic dyes. Chemical equilibrium by spectroscopic methods. Fluorescence of micellar solution. NMR spectroscopy.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN414G
    Instrumental Analysis A
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is a practical course with weekly supportive lectures.  The lectures provide heroretical background of the instrumental methods and the instruments. The supportive lectures are part of lab exercises and attendance is compulsory.

    The students learn about modern methods and instruments used in analytical chemistry based on interaction between chemical- and physical properties of the substances and the electromagnetic field. Chromatographic methods used to separate mixtures into single pure compounds will be introduced.  The focus of the course is the analysis of organic compounds.

    Laboratory work: Fluorimetry, atomic absorption, spectrophotometry and applications of IR, UV and visible and NMR spectroscopy. Gas- and liquid (HPLC) chromatography. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS).

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • Fall
  • EFN509G
    Physical Chemistry Laboratory C
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    .

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN513M
    Inorganic Chemistry 3
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Reaction mechanisms in coordination chemistry. Stereochemistry of reactions. Organometallic chemistry. Organic ligands and nomenclature. General principles and survey of organometallic compounds. Organometallic reactions and mechanisms. Spectral analysis and characterization of organometallic complexes. Organometallic reactions and catalysis.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN514M
    Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory 3
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The objective of the laboratory work is to familiarize the students with synthetic inorganic chemistry. The students will prepare classical transition-metal complexes, main group and organometallic compounds. Common methods and techniques for handling air-sensitive inorganic compounds such as the use of a vacuum-line, reactions under inert atmosphere, high-temperature reactions and sublimation, will be introduced and used.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN515M
    Organic Chemistry 3
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Generation of carbanions and their reactions, such as alkylation of enolates, C vs. O alkylation, aldol condensation and acylation of carbons. Decarboxylation and formation of double bonds will also be covered, along with organometallic chemistry. General and specific laboratory techniques of synthesis and analysis and the use of databases (Scifinder). Spectroscopic identification of all compounds. 75% of homework must be turned in in order to be allowed to take the exam.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN516M
    Organic Chemistry Laboratory 3
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The students will be trained to work independently in the laboratory, which serves as preparation for research projects in graduate school or on the job. Instead of standard and well-tested protocols, like found in most undergraduate laboratory classes, general descriptions from books or journal articles will be used. Each student gets his own four-step synthesis project. The students will carry out the reactions, monitor their progress and isolate the products while documenting their work in their notebooks. They will solve problems that may come up while performing their experiments, including optimization of reaction conditions if the reactions don´t work as expected the first time around. The structures of the products will be verified by spectroscopic methods, in particular NMR.

    The students will be shown how to find reaction conditions in journal articles using databases (Scifinder). The lectures will also cover how results are communicated in scientific journals. The students will write an article describing their synthetic work, instead of writing reports for each step. A template from Organic Letters will be used.

    The synthesis projects are based on the material covered in EFN511G, where the theme is formation of C-C bonds, for example by alkylation of 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds, by the use of the Wittig and Grignard reactions, aldol condensations etc.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN261L
    Research Project in Chemistry
    Elective course
    0
    Free elective course within the programme
    0 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Students are given the opportunity to conduct a special topic in chemistry under the guidance of a Faculty member. The Head of the department must accept the project and supervisor prior to registration. The project is governed by rules issued by the Department of Chemistry on such special topics. The work is completed with a short thesis which is graded by the faculty member in charge and an additional faculty member. 

    Self-study
    Prerequisites
    Part of the total project/thesis credits
  • EFN307G
    Thermodynamics and Introduction to Statistical Mechanics
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basic principles and mathematical methods in thermodynamics,laws of thermodynamics, state functions, Maxwell relations, equilibrium, phase transitions, quantum statistical mechanics, ideal and real gases, specific heat, rate theory, Bose and Fermi distributions.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    EFN510G
    Computational Chemistry G
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Methods for calculating and predicting properties of matter and the rate of transitions. Students will learn to use software for setting up and carrying out calculations of various organic and inorganic compounds and to interpret
    the results for deeper insight and understanding of chemistry. Among the methods that will be introduced for calculating electron distribution are Hartree-Fock, density functional theory and perturbation theory (MP2). The compromises that need to be made in choosing basis sets and level of theory will be discussed.  Among methods used to calculate structure of molecules and movement of atoms are minimization techniques, classical dynamics, vibrational mode analysis, Monte Carlo and transition state theory.  The coursework includes laboratory exercises  involving computer calculations.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Spring 2
  • EFN612M
    Molecular spectroscopy and reaction dynamics
    Mandatory (required) course
    8
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course deals with the determination of the structure, energy levels, and reaction dynamics of molecules using the spectra resulting from the interaction between electromagnetic radiation and matter. The fundamentals of quantum mechanics applied to molecular spectra as well as experimental aspects of modern spectroscopic methods will be covered. The focus is on rotational and vibrational spectroscopies, electronic spectroscopy including time-resolved and single-molecule techniques, nuclear magnetic resonance, and electron paramagnetic resonance. The course involves weekly assignments and visits to experimental labs.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN261L
    Research Project in Chemistry
    Elective course
    0
    Free elective course within the programme
    0 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Students are given the opportunity to conduct a special topic in chemistry under the guidance of a Faculty member. The Head of the department must accept the project and supervisor prior to registration. The project is governed by rules issued by the Department of Chemistry on such special topics. The work is completed with a short thesis which is graded by the faculty member in charge and an additional faculty member. 

    Self-study
    Prerequisites
    Part of the total project/thesis credits
  • Not taught this semester
    EFN608M
    Organic Chemistry 4
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is focused on modern methods to synthesise organic compounds with emphasis on systematic build-up of knowledge to deal with modern organic synthesis. This is added to knowledge based on previous courses in organic chemistry, Organic Chemistry 1, 2 and 3, being prerequisites to this course. The lectures will deal with various nucleophilic substitutions and electrophilic additions, modern organometallic chemistry, heterocycles, reduction and selective reducing agents, pericyclic reactions and the Woodward-Hoffmann rules, oxidations and rearrangements. Stereochemistry and stereocontrol will also be discussed and its importance in organic syntheses. Application of enzymes in organic sythesis will also be covered. Protective groups and their importance in organic sytnhesis will be discussed and systematic design and performance of organic synthesis such as umpolung, retrosynthesis, retrosynthetic analysis together with relevant concepts and theories. Finally, various classical organic synthesis of complicated natural products in historical perspectives will be described and discussed in details.

    The course is intended for chemistry graduate students and students fulfillinng the prerequisites with the main aim to enable students to understand modern total synthesis of organic compounds.

    Face-to-face learning
    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
  • EFN610M
    Inorganic Chemistry 4
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The aim of this course is to provide an overview of the diverse and fascinating discipline of advanced inorganic chemistry. The course is divided into three topics; 1) bioinorganic chemistry with emphasis on the reaction chemistry of metals in proteins; 2) Metal organic frameworks (MOFs): detailed description of the synthesis and structural analysis of MOFs and their functional properties such as gas adsorption and heterogeneous catalysis; 3) Chemistry and periodicity among metals and nonmetals. Inorganic cages, rings, and clusters. Inorganic polymers. Industrial production processes of metals and metalloids. Inorganic chemical industry in Iceland.
    The focus is to provide students with the skills, knowledge and experience to develop their minds as professionals and independent researchers. This course will help students to understand and reason, how to approach a problem and evaluate their approaches by literature review followed by their analysis.
    The minimum requirements for this course are Inorganic chemistry 1, 2 and 3. Although, the course is intended for graduate students in chemistry, it is open to others who fulfill the requirements. The main goals are to train students to read and analyse modern inorganic chemistry and chemical process in a meaningful and professional way.

    Face-to-face learning
    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
  • EFN631G
    Current topics in Chemistry and Biochemistry
    Elective course
    1
    Free elective course within the programme
    1 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures in contemporary research in chemistry and biochemistry are given by invited speakers. Guest speakers will be from within the University of Iceland and from other universities, research institutes and companies.
    Attendance is compulsory. Minimum of 10 lectures must be attended to complete the course.

    Prerequisites
  • Fall
  • EÐL301G
    Solid State and Semiconductor Physics
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basics of quantum mechanics and statistical physics. The atom. Crystal structure. The band theory of solids. Semiconductors. Transport properties of semiconductors and metals. The band theory of solids. Optical properties of semiconductors. P-n junctions. Diodes. Transistors. MOS devices. Lasers, diodes and semiconductor optics.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL302G
    Classical Mechanics
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Newtonian dynamics of a particle in various coordinate systems. Harmonic, damped and forced oscillations of a pendulum. Nonlinear oscillations and chaos. Gravitation and tidal forces. Calculus of variations. Lagrangian and Hamiltonian dynamics, generalized coordinates and constraints. Central force motion and planetary orbits. Dynamics of a system of particles, collisions in a center-of-mass coordinate system and in a lab system. Motion in a non-inertial reference frame, Coriolis and centrifugal forces. Motion relative to the Earth. Mechanics of rigid bodies, inertia tensors and principal axes of inertia. Eulerian angles, and Euler's equations for a rigid body. Precession, motion of a symmetric top and stability of rigid body rotations. Coupled oscillations, eigenfrequencies and normal modes.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL506G
    Nuclei and Particles
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is devoted to the foundations of nuclear and elementary particle physics. It consists of the lectures on the corresponding theory and a laboratory of 2 week duration. In theoretical part students learn about basic ideas of nuclear physics, such as simplest nuclear models, basics of the scattering physics, types of elementary particles and their fundamental interactions. After that basics of the relativistic wave equations are introduced. The cases of Klein-Gordon, Higgs, and Dirac equations are considered. Higgs equation is used to introduce the fundamental concept of spontaneous symmetry breaking, necessary for the understanding of the appearance of a Higgs boson.  Solution of the Dirac equation for free particles is analyzed, and related fundamental concepts of antiparticles, helicity and chirality are considered in detail. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL509M
    Quantum Mechanics 1
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The postulates and formalism of quantum mechanics. One-dimensional systems. Angular momentum, spin, two level systems. Particles in a central potential, the hydrogen atom. Approximation methods. Time independent and time dependent perturbation. Scattering.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL520M
    Condensed Matter Physics 1
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is an introduction to some basic concepts of condensed matter physics. Curriculum: Chemical bonds, crystal structure, crystal symmetry, the reciprocal lattice. Vibrational modes of crystals, phonons, specific heat, thermal conductivity. The free electron model, band structure of condensed matter, effective mass. Metals, insulators and semiconductors. The course includes three labs.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • IÐN103G
    Engineering Management
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The purpose of the course is to prepare students for working in technology-based firms and organizations. The course will give an overview of the management of firms and organizations, the role of engineers and the challenges they face. Students will learn about analysis tools used in decision making, interpret the results, and communicate both orally and in writing.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • JEÐ502M
    Groundwater Hydrology
    Elective course
    7,5
    Free elective course within the programme
    7,5 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    A 7-week intensive course (first 7 weeks of fall term). 

    Taught if sufficient number of students. May be taugth as a reading course.

    Occurrence of groundwater, the water content of soil, properties and types of aquifers (porosity, retention, yield, storage coefficients; unconfined, confined, leaky, homogeneous, isotropic aquifers). Principles of groundwater flow. Darcy's law, groundwater potential, potentiometric surface, hydraulic conductivity, transmissivity, permeability, determination of hydraulic conductivity in homogeneous and anisotropic aquifers, permeability, flow lines and flow nets, refraction of flow lines, steady and unsteady flow in confined, unconfined and leaky aquifers, general flow equations. Groundwater flow to wells, drawdown and recovery caused by pumping wells, determination of aquifer parameters from time-drawdown data, well loss, capacity and efficiency. Sea-water intrusion in coastal aquifers. Mass transport of solutes by groundwater flow. Quality and pollution of groundwater. Case histories from groundwater studies in Iceland. Numerical models of groundwater flow.   Students carry out an interdisciplinary project on groundwater hydrology and management.

    Face-to-face learning
    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • LEF302G
    Biochemistry 1
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    A thorough treatment of the fundamentals of biochemistry - part one; structure and function of macromolecules. The scope of biochemistry. Water and its properties. Interactions in biomolecules. Amino acids, peptides and the structure of proteins. Protein function.  Protein stability, folding, and dynamics related to function. Carbohydrates and glycobiology. Lipids, membranes and membrane proteins. Enzyme kinetics, regulation of enzyme activity, and mechanisms of enzyme catalysis. Signal transduction and membrane receptors. Structure of nucleic acids, stability, and basic recombinant technology. Final grade is combined from the final exam (85% ) and a midterm exam (15%).

    Lectures:
    Twice weekly (2 x 40 min.) Probelm solving class (2 x 40 min.) weekly.

    Course evaluation:
    Final exam (3 hours): 85% of final grade.
    Midterm: 15% of final grade.

    Textbook:
    Nelson D.L. & Cox M.M. Lehninger: Principles of Biochemistry, 8th Edition, 2021

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF501M
    Biochemistry 3
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Practical class with accompanying lectures where practical and theoretical aspects of the experiments are discussed. Enzyme purification by hydrophobic, ion-exchange, affinity and gel filtration chromatography. Gel electrophoresis. Enzyme kinetics and inhibitors. Specific chemical modification of enzymes. Thermal stability of proteins. Ligand-protein interactions. Immunoprecipitation. Restriction enzymes and agarose electrophoresis.  Bioinformatics by computer.

    Practical projects:
    The following laboratory sessions are performed: Enzyme kinetics and the effect of inhibitors. Purification of enzymes by hydrophobic interactions, ion-exchange chromatography, affinity chromatography, and gel-filtration. Electrophoresis of protein and nucleic acids. Stability of proteins toward heating and urea/guanidinium assessed by activity measurements, UV-absorbance and circular dichroism. Determination of activation enery (Ea) and Gibb’s free energy. Specific reactions of amino acid side-chains in proteins for determining number of disulfide bonds and thiol groups. Action of reactive compounds as proteinase inhibitors differentiating between serine and cysteine proteases. Digestion of DNA by restriction enzymes and melting of DNA under various conditions that affect its stability. Preparation of samples for mass spectrometry by trypsin digestion and spotting of samples for MALDI-MS. Fingerprint identification using the computer program and database of Mascot. Bioinformatics and analysis of protein structures on the computer screen (e.q. BLAST, DeepView).

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF509M
    Applied Biochemistry
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Aimed at introducing students to aspects of applied biochemistry and biotechnology with emphasis on protein biotechnology. Lectures: Use of proteins in industry and medicine. Industrial use of enzymes. Enzyme reactors. Applications of immobilized enzymes. Biosensors. Use of recombinant DNA technology to genetically engineer organisms for production of biochemicals. Analytical biochemistry. Automaton in bioanalysis. Purification of bioproducts; scaling up of production lines and downstream processing. Tutorials: Recent research papers presented and discussed.

    Teaching methods:
    Lectures (about 40). Student lectures based on selected scientific papers.

    The course is taught together with ILT102F - Introduction to Applied Biotechnology. Students can only take one of the courses, not both. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÍF109G
    Genetics
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures: Mendelian inheritance. Sex chromosomes. Cytoplasmic inheritance. Chromosomes. Cell division (mitosis and meiosis). Life cycles. Linkage and recombination in eukaryotes. Bacterial genetics. Gene mapping and tetrad analysis. Genotype and phenotype. Chromosomal changes. DNA: Structure and replication. RNA: Transcription. Rgulation of gene transcription. Gene isolation and manipulation. Genomics. Transposons.  Mutations. Repair and recombination.  Model organisms. Laboratory work: : I. The fruitfly Drosophila melanogaster. II. Mitosis in onions. III. Plasmids and restriction enzymes. IV. PCR. V. Analysis of asci from Sordaria fimicola.

    Exam: Laboratory and problems 25%, written 75%. Minimum mark needed for each part.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÍF315G
    Cell Biology
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The cell biology part includes four lectures each week for 14 weeks (4L week for 14 weeks). The content includes: Introduction to cell biology, structure and evolution of eukaryotic cells. The main emphasis is on eukaryotic cells. Chemistry of the cell and energy conversion, structure and function of cellular macromolecules. The structure and function of cellular organs and functional units like the cell membrane, nucleus, mitochondria, chloroplasts, cytoskeleton, golgi-system, lysosomes and peroxisomes. Intracellular regulation and signal pathways linked to communication between cells, together with cell differentiation and cancer. Details on extracellular matrix are included and basic immunology.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÍF523G
    Methods in Molecular Biology
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is divided into lectures, practical sessions, discussions and student projects.

    Lectures: Theoretical basis of common molecular-biology techniques and their application in research. Course material provided by teachers.

    Laboratory practice in molecular biology techniques: Training in general molecular biology laboratory skills and active documentation in laboratory notebooks.

    Discussions are associated with all other parts (lectures, practicals and student projects)

    Main topics:  Laboratory notebooks, electronic laboratory notebooks and standard operating procedures (SOP's), use of online tools. Basics of DNA work and DNA cloning. Plasmids and plasmid maps, working with DNA sequences. DNA and RNA isolation and quantification (Southern and Northern blotting, PCR, RT-PCR, qRT-PCR), restriction enzymes, DNA sequencing techniques and data analysis. Basics of E. coli cultures and plasmid work. Basics of cell culture and transfection. Model organisms: E.coli, S. cerevisiae, C. reinhardtii, A. thaliana, C. elegans, D. melanogaster, M. musculus.  Transgenesis and genetic tools in bacteria, yeast and multicellular organisms. CRISPR technique and gRNA design. RNA interference and other methods for conditional gene expression and inhibition. Protein expression and analysis. How to raise and use antibodies for research. Western blot, immunostaining of cells and tissues, radioactive techniques. Microscopy in molecular biology. Methods used in recent research papers will be discussed.

    Student projects: Study of a recent method or method group. Output varies by year but aims at training students in reference work and different approaches to mediating scientific material. Examples include: Posters, Essays, Talks, Videos, Webpages and Podcasts.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LYF301G
    Microbiology and Virology
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course consists of two main parts, microbiology and infectious diseases. These parts are intergraded and provide the basis for knowledge and understanding of the characteristics of different pathogens and their relations to infectious diseases, preventions and treatment.  

    Teaching/learning procedures
    In the teaching is based on lectures and includes following parts:

    1. Bacteriology – basics
    2. Bacteriology – species/groups and bacterial infections in diverse organs and organ systems 
    3. Virology and viral infections, prions
    4. Mycology and fungal infections
    5. Parasitology and parasitic infections

    The students deliver their projects by introduction and/or reports, Exams are in each part of the course, during or following.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ302G
    Mathematical Analysis III
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Functions of a complex variable. Analytic functions. The exponential function, logarithms and roots. Cauchy's Integral Theorem and Cauchy's Integral Formula. Uniform convergence. Power series. Laurent series. Residue integration method. Application of complex function theory to fluid flows. Ordinary differential equations and systems of ordinary differential equations. Linear differential equations with constant coefficients. Systems of linear differential equations. The matrix exponential function. Various methods for obtaining a particular solution. Green's functions for initial value problems. Flows and the phase plane. Nonlinear systems of ordinary differential equations in the plane, equilibrium points, stability and linear approximations. Series solutions and the method of Frobenius. Use of Laplace transforms in solving differential equations.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    STÆ505M
    Partial Differential Equations
    Elective course
    10
    Free elective course within the programme
    10 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The object of the course is to give a firm and rigorous foundation for more advanced studies in partial differential equations. Contents: first order equations; the Cauchy-Kowalevski theorem; techniques of analysis (Lebesgue-integral, convolutions, Fourier-transform); distributions; fundamental solutions; the Laplace operator; the heat operator.  The course is mainly intended for postgraduate students with a good background in analysis.

    Distance learning
    Prerequisites
  • TÖL101G
    Computer Science 1
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The Java programming language will be used to introduce basic practices in computer programming. Practice in programming is scheduled throughout the semester. An emphasis is placed on logical methods for writing program and good documentation. Main ideas related to computers and programming. Classes, objects and methods. Control statements. Strings and arrays, operations and built-in functons. Input and output. Inheritance. Ideas relatied to system design and good practices for program writing. Iteration and recursion. Searching and Sorting.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    VÉL102M
    Energy Intensive Production Processes
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The aim of the course is:- To give students overview of processes in materials engineering;- To encourage students to think about feasible ways to utilize renewable energy. The course will cover the industrial processes in some of the larger Icelandic companies, including the production of ferro-alloys, aluminium smelting, rockwool production, recycling of steel, algea and diatomitemining, and production of sodium chlorine, fertilizers, cement. The course will also cover some of the larger material engineering processes that are not in practice in Iceland but may be a feasible option for Icelandic industry. Students will get good overview of the processes, required materials, source of power and power consumption, pollution, products etc. Discussions will be held on the financial background for individual processes, covering aspects such as production cost, profit and the influences of market share changes. Grades are based on 2 larger projects the students work on through the semester. Field trips are an important part of the course.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • VÉL301G
    Engineering Materials
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The objective of the course is to teach the fundamental principles of materials science so the student can better understand material behavior and select appropriate materials for a given application. Theoretical basis is given for the understanding of material behaviour from a microscopic view. The course includes the following topics: crystalline structures, imperfections, diffusion, mechanical properties, deformation and strengthening mechanisms, fracture and fatique, phase diagrams, phase transformations, thermal processing of metal alloys, types of materials (metal alloys, polymers, ceramics, composites), corrosion and degradation of of materials. The course includes homework problems and practical classes in laboratory.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • VÉL502G
    Fluid Mechanics
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Properties of liquids and gases. Pressure and force fields in liquids at rest, pressure gauges. Equations of motion, continuity, momentum and energy. Bernoulli equation of motion. Dimensional analysis and dynamic similarity. Two dimensional flow, non-viscous fluids, boundary layers theory, laminar and turbulent flow, fluid friction and form drag. Flow of compressible fluids, velocity of sound. Mach number, sound waves, nozzle shape for supersonic speed. Open channel flow. Several experiments are conducted.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Spring 2
  • EÐL610M
    General Relativity
    Elective course
    10
    Free elective course within the programme
    10 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course provides a basic introduction to Einstein's relativity theory: Special relativity, four-vectors and tensors. General relativity, spacetime curvature, the equivalence principle, Einstein's equations, experimental tests within the solar system, gravitational waves, black holes, cosmology.

    Teachers: Benjamin Knorr and Ziqi Yan, postdocs at Nordita

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL616M
    Modern Experimental Physics
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Presentation of important techniques used in experimental physics and of various phenomena related to the subject matter of the second and third year of the Physics curriculum. Six extensive experiments are made, most of which are related to active research in experimental physics at the Science Institute of the University of Iceland.  The course emphasizes independence in carrying out the experiments, data analysis and literature search.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    EÐL620M
    Life in the Universe
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    An introduction to astrobiology. Formation of the elements in the primordial plasma. Formation of heavy elements in stars and in their environments. Origin of galaxies, stellar systems, stars and planets. Formation of molecules and dust in the interstellar medium. Properties of Carbon and other elements necessary for life. Topics in biochemistry and thermodynamics. Origin and evolution of the Earth. Origin of water. The atmosphere. The Earth compared to other planets. What is life and what does it need? Origin and evolution of life on Earth. Life in extreme environments. Asteroids and impacts with the Earth. Effects of nearby supernovas. Is there life elsewhere in the Solar System, e.g. on Mars, Europa or Titan? Habitable worlds in the Universe. Extrasolar planets. The search for extraterrestrial intelligence. The Fermi paradox. Anthropic reasoning.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EVF401G
    Material and Energy Balances
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Introduction to processes and material and energy balance calculations applied to industrial processes. Analysis of gas behavior, gas-liquid systems, and phase equilibrium. Material balances, including reaction systems and multiple-unit systems. Energy balances, including reaction systems and multiple-unit systems, and combined energy-material balances.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EVF601M
    Process Design
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    A systematic introduction to the use of process simulators (like Aspen) to model, design and optimize chemical manufacturing processes. The selection, optimization and combination of reactors, separation equipment and heat exchangers. An introduction to the concepts and principles of project economics.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EVF602M
    Reaction Design
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Design of chemical reactors for economical processes and waste minimization. Contacting patterns, kinetics and transport rate effects in single phase and catalytic systems. Another goal of the course is to introduce the fundamentals of mass transfer in chemical engineering such as the mass transfer theory and how to set up differential equations and solve them for such systems.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • IÐN405G
    Design & Experimental Execution
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The purpose of the course is to train an engineering approach to experiments and experimental thinking. Experiments are designed, carried out, data collected and processed using statistical methods. Finally, it discussed how conclusions can be drawn from data / information when using experiments in for example product design and the design and operation of production systems.

    Course material: Linear and non-linear regression analysis. Analysis of Variances (ANOVA). Design of experiments. Statistical quality control. Non-parametric tests that can be used in data processing. Use of statistical programs when solving tasks.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF406G
    Biochemistry 2
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    In this course, the main metabolic processes of cells are studied, with a focus on carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism, as well as the metabolic regulation of these processes. The course begins with a detailed examination of carbohydrate metabolism, including glycolysis (both aerobic and anaerobic), the citric acid cycle, and the pentose phosphate pathway. Then we continue into pathways such as gluconeogenesis, glycogen breakdown, and then into how carbohydrate metabolism is regulated.

    Next, the focus shifts to fat metabolism, where the breakdown of triglycerides, fatty acid oxidation, and fatty acid synthesis are explained. Special emphasis is placed on the regulation of fat metabolism and the control of enzymes involved in these processes. Following this, protein metabolism is addressed, where protein hydrolysis, amino acid degradation, and the urea cycle are studied.

    The course also covers the integration and regulation of metabolic pathways, with a focus on the complex regulation that occurs in the key steps of these pathways, considering both intracellular signals and hormones. It examines how these processes adapt to various conditions to maintain homeostasis and the effects of disruptions in their regulation. Lastly, photosynthesis and the Calvin cycle are covered.

    This course is highly beneficial for those seeking an in-depth understanding of biochemical processes and the biochemistry of the human body.

    Lectures are held twice a week (2 x 40 minutes) over 13-14 weeks. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF616M
    Structure and Function of Proteins
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The characteristics of protein structures at the different structural levels. How structure determines the different properties of proteins. Structural classes of proteins and their characteristics. Relationship between molecular structure and biological function. Interactions that determine structural stability of proteins. Protein folding and unfolding. Effects of different parameters, e.g. temperature, pH, salts and denaturants on protein stability. Techniques used for determination structure and different properties proteins. Selected topics in protein structure function relationships.

    Course plan: Lectures twice per week (2x40 min. each time). Computer lab once per week (2x40 min.). Lab sessions involve training using the WWW to study proteins. Tutorials and practice of using SwissPDBviewer program for solving specific assignments related to topics covered in lectures.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF617M
    Biochemistry 4
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course focuses on methodology and recent innovations in biochemistry, emphasizing both analytical and computational techniques. It is divided into several modules, each taught by experts in their respective fields. While lectures form the core of the material, additional resources such as articles or book chapters may be assigned when appropriate. Practical demonstrations of research equipment may also be included. Students are expected to submit several written assignments throughout the semester.

    The course will explore recent research in various specialized areas of biochemistry, and the content of the modules is regularly updated.

    Topics covered may include single-molecule spectroscopy, protein mass spectrometry, structural biochemistry, binding affinity and thermodynamics, enzymology, and computational biochemistry.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    LÍF620M
    Ecotoxicology
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The objectives of the course are to introduce students to important pollutants, their characteristics and distribution, with emphasis on their effects on organisms. The first part of the course deals with the major classes of pollutants (Metals, Organic pollutants, Radioactivity), their origin, behaviour and characteristics. The second part focuses on bioavailability, bioaccumulation and bioconcentration and the effects of the pollutants on organisms. Biomarkers and bioassays will be discussed. The third part of the course deals with pollutants in arctic and subarctic areas, with emphasis on Iceland. Practical classes consist of four large projects.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÍF644M
    Molecular Genetics
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures: The molecular basis of life (chemical bonds, biological molecules, structure of DNA, RNA and proteins). Genomes and the flow of biological information. Chromosome structure and function, chromatin and nucleosomes. The cell cycle, DNA replication. Chromosome segregaition, Transcription. Regulation of transcription. RNA processing. Translation. Regulation of translation. Regulatory RNAs. Protein modification and targeting. DNA damage, checkpoints and DNA repair mechanisms. Repair of DNA double-strand breaks and homologous recombination. Mobile DNA elements. Tools and techniques in molecular Biology icluding Model organisms.

    Seminar: Students present and discuss selected research papers and hand in a short essay.

    Laboratory work: Work on molecular genetics project relevant to current research. Basic methods such as gene cloning, gene transfer and expression, PCR, sequencing, DNA isolation and restriction analysis, electrophoresis of DNA and proteins will be used.

    Exam: Laboratory 10%, seminar 15%, written final exam 75%.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    LVF601M
    Introduction to Systems Biology
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Systems biology is an interdisciplinary field that studies the biological phenomena that emerge from multiple interacting biological elements. Understanding how biological systems change across time is a particular focus of systems biology. In this course, we will prioritize aspects of systems biology relevant to human health and disease.

    This course provides an introduction to 1) basic principles in modelling molecular networks, both gene regulatory and metabolic networks; 2) cellular phenomena that support homeostasis like tissue morphogenesis and microbiome resilience, and 3) analysis of molecular patterns found in genomics data at population scale relevant to human disease such as patient classification and biomarker discovery. In this manner, the course covers the three major scales in systems biology: molecules, cells and organisms.

    The course activities include reading and interpreting scientific papers, implementation of computational algorithms, working on a research project and presentation of scientific results.

    Lectures will comprise of both (1) presentations on foundational concepts and (2) hands-on sessions using Python as the programming language. The course will be taught in English.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ202G
    Sets and Metric Spaces
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Elements of set theory: Sets. Mappings. Relations, equivalence relations, orderings. Finite, infinite, countable and uncountable sets. Equipotent sets. Construction of the number systems. Metric spaces: Open sets and closed sets, convergent sequences and Cauchy sequences, cluster points of sets and limit points of sequences. Continuous mappings, convergence, uniform continuity. Complete metric spaces. Uniform convergence and interchange of limits. The Banach fixed point theorem; existence theorem about solutions of first-order differential equations. Completion of metric spaces. Compact metric spaces. Connected sets. Infinite series, in particular function series.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ211G
    Mathematics for Physicists I
    Elective course
    2
    Free elective course within the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Python tools related to data analysis and plotting. Mathematical concepts such as vectors, matrices, differential operators in three dimensions, coordinate transformations, partial differential equations and Fourier series and their relation to undergraduate courses in physics and engineering. We will emphasize applications and problem solving.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL408G
    Mathematics for Physicists II
    Elective course
    2
    Free elective course within the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Python tools related to data analysis and manipulation of graphs. Differential equations and their use in the description of physical systems. Partial differential equations and boundary value problems. Special functions and their relation to important problems in physics. We will emphasize applications and problem solving.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ401G
    Mathematical Analysis IV
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Aim: To introduce the student to Fourier analysis and partial differential equations and their applications.
    Subject matter: Fourier series and orthonormal systems of functions, boundary-value problems for ordinary differential equations, the eigenvalue problem for Sturm-Liouville operators, Fourier transform. The wave equation, diffusion equation and Laplace's equation solved on various domains in one, two and three dimensions by methods based on the first part of the course, separation of variables, fundamental solution, Green's functions and the method of images.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ405G
    Numerical Analysis
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Fundamental concepts on approximation and error estimates. Solutions of systems of linear and non-linear equations. PLU decomposition. Interpolating polynomials, spline interpolation and regression. Numerical differentiation and integration. Extrapolation. Numerical solutions of initial value problems of systems of ordinary differential equations. Multistep methods. Numerical solutions to boundary value problems for ordinary differential equations.

    Grades are given for programning projects and in total they amount to 30% of the final grade. The student has to receive the minimum grade of 5 for both the projects and the final exam.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • TÖL203G
    Computer Science 2
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The programming language Java will be used in the course. Various data structures, algorithms and abstract data types will be covered. Among the data types and structures covered are lists, stacks, queues, priority queues, trees, binary trees, binary search trees and heaps along with related algorithms. Various search and sort algorithms will be covered. Algorithms will be analysed for their space and time complexity. There will be programming assignments in Java using the given data structures and algorithms. There will be many small assignments.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • VÉL405G
    Energy Processes
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Goal: Enable the students to: 1: Study thermodynamics from the viewpoint of the second law of thermodynamics 2. Understand standard power cycles, and their use for analysis of power plants 3. Understand air conditioning systems and their necessity 4. Understand thermochemistry and be able to estimate heat release through combustion. Content: Work, heat and energy conversion. Exergy and anergy. Energy, energy price and energy quality. Standard power and refrigeration cycles. Steam power cycles, geothermal utilization. Gas mixtures, moist air, ventilation and air purifiers. The Mollier i-x chart. Thermochemistry, combustion and reactions, chemical equilibrium. New energy systems. Exercises, design project.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • VÉL601G
    Heat Transfer
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Heat conduction, one and two dimensional systems, steady and unsteady heat conduction, numerical analysis of heat conduction systems. Fins and enlarged heat transfer surfaces. Heat transfer by convection, laminar and turbulent flow. Free and forced convection. Evaporation and condensation. Thermal radiation, Stefan-Boltzmann's and Planck's laws. Thermal radiation properties of materials. Shape factors, radiative heat exchange between surfaces, radiation properties of gases. Heat exchangers and their design. Special topics in heat transfer.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • SAG448G
    Episodes from the history of philosophy of science
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course aims to introduce students to the nature and development of science by examining episodes of its history and by disucssing recent theories concerning the nature, aims, and development of science. A special emphasis will be placed on the history of physical science from Aristotle to Newton, including developments in astronomy during the scientific revolution of the 16th and 17th century. We will also specifically examine the history of Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. These episodes and many others will be viewed through the lens of various theories of scientific progress, and through recent views about interactions between science and society at large. The course material may change depending on the students’ interest.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • SAG817M
    Episodes from the history of philosophy of science
    Elective course
    10
    Free elective course within the programme
    10 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course aims to introduce students to the nature and development of science by examining episodes of its history and by disucssing recent theories concerning the nature, aims, and development of science. A special emphasis will be placed on the history of physical science from Aristotle to Newton, including developments in astronomy during the scientific revolution of the 16th and 17th century. We will also specifically examine the history of Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. These episodes and many others will be viewed through the lens of various theories of scientific progress, and through recent views about interactions between science and society at large. The course material may change depending on the students’ interest.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
Third year
  • Fall
  • EÐL102G
    Physics 1 V
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Concepts, units, scales and dimensions. Vectors. Kinematics of particles. Particle dynamics, inertia, forces and Newton's laws. Friction. Work and energy, conservation of energy. Momentum, collisions. Systems of particles, center of mass. Rotation of a rigid body. Angular momentum and moment of inertia. Statics. Gravity. Solids and fluids, Bernoulli's equation. Oscillations: Simple, damped and forced. Waves. Sound. Temperature. Ideal gas. Heat and the first law of thermodynamics. Kinetic theory of gases. Entropy and the second law of thermodynamics. Home problems: Once a week the students have to solve homeproblems on the website MasteringPhysics.

    Laboratory work: Three exercises, mainly centered on mechanics, where students are trained in handling physical instruments, collecting and inspecting data. Students hand in their lab notebooks for a grade.

    Note that the textbook is accessible to students via Canvas free of charge.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN108G
    General Chemistry 1
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The basis of the atomic theory. Stoichiometry. Types of chemical reactions and solution stoichiometry. Properties of gases. Chemical equilibrium. Acids and bases. Applications of aqueous equilibria. Chemical thermodynamics. Enthropy, free energy and equilibrium. Electrochemistry. Chemical kinetics. Physical properties of solutions.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN109G
    Chemistry Laboratory 1
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Molar volume of gases, thermochemistry, reaction enthalpies and Hesse's law, Rate of chemical reactions, decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, reaction reversibility and Le Chatelier's principle, determination of acid ionization constants, oxidation-reduction; electrochemistry, thermodynamics of an electrochemical cell.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN114G
    Introduction to Scientific Programming
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The goal of this course is to learn how to use the programming language Python for scientific programming. The basics of scientific computing, such as flow control with logical operators and loops, are explained. Plotting data in 1D, 2D and 3D will be taught, extracting data and changing it, evaluating sums, and how you can calculate simple problems in linear algebra (vectors and matrices). The course starts in week 6 and spans for 9 weeks of the semester. A written examination taken at a computer terminal constitutes 60% of the final mark. Projects handed in during the semester yield the other 40%.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ104G
    Mathematical Analysis I
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This is a foundational course in single variable calculus. The prerequisites are high school courses on algebra, trigonometry. derivatives, and integrals. The course aims to create a foundation for understanding of subjects such as natural and physical sciences, engineering, economics, and computer science. Topics of the course include the following:

    • Real numbers.
    • Limits and continuous functions.
    • Differentiable functions, rules for derivatives, derivatives of higher order, applications of differential calculus (extremal value problems, linear approximation).
    • Transcendental functions.
    • Mean value theorem, theorems of l'Hôpital and Taylor.
    • Integration, the definite integral and rules/techniques of integration, primitives, improper integrals.
    • Fundamental theorem of calculus.
    • Applications of integral calculus: Arc length, area, volume, centroids.
    • Ordinary differential equations: First-order separable and homogeneous differential equations, first-order linear equations, second-order linear equations with constant coefficients.
    • Sequences and series, convergence tests.
    • Power series, Taylor series.
    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ107G
    Linear Algebra
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basics of linear algebra over the reals.  

    Subject matter: Systems of linear equations, matrices, Gauss-Jordan reduction.  Vector spaces and their subspaces.  Linearly independent sets, bases and dimension.  Linear maps, range space and nullk space.  The dot product, length and angle measures.  Volumes in higher dimension and the cross product in threedimensional space.  Flats, parametric descriptions and descriptions by equations.  Orthogonal projections and orthonormal bases.  Gram-Schmidt orthogonalization.  Determinants and inverses of matrices.  Eigenvalues, eigenvectors and diagonalization.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Spring 2
  • EÐL208G
    Physics 2 E
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is taught together with EÐL201G. The class is given for 8 weeks (spread over 11 week period).Topics: Charge and electric field. Gauss' law. Electric potential. Capacitors and dielectrics. Electric currents and resistance. Magnetic fields. The laws of Ampère and Faraday. Induction. Maxwell's equations. Electromagnetic waves. Reflection and refraction. Lenses and mirrors. Wave optics. Two laboratory exercises in optics.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN202G
    General Chemistry 2
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course focuses on the structure of the periodic table and properties of the elements based on their place in the periodic table. The students learn about the naturally occurring forms of the elements, isolation of the elements and common chemical reactions. Atomic theory is taught as a base for understanding the properties of the elements and their reactivity. Early theories of the structure of the hydrogen atome put forward by Bohr and their development to modern view of the atom structure are covered. The electronic structure of the atom is described, and theories describing formation of chemical bonds such as valence bond theory, VSEPR, and molecular orbital theory are used to determine structures and predict reactivity of molecules. Processes for purification of metals from their naturally occurring ores is covered as well as properties of metalloids and nonmetals. The transition metal elements, and the formation of coordination compounds with solubility, equilibria, ions and electron pair donors will be introduced. Radioactivity, formation and types of radioactive species, reactions and their applications will be introduced.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN208G
    Analytical Chemistry
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Review of fundamental concepts in quantitative analysis. Gravimetric methods. Chemical equilibria: Acid-base, precipitation, complexation, oxidation-reduction. Theory and applications of titrations based on the aforementioned equilibria. Introduction to the electrochemistry. Potentiometric and electrogravimetric methods.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN209G
    Chemistry Laboratory 3
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course contains independent, individual exercises in qualitative analyses. The student will conduct analyses of cations from the first, second, third and fourth group as well as selected anions. Supporting lectures accompany the laboratory work.

    In the first half of the course, students will analyze prepared aqueous solutions of unknown compositions. In the second half the student will analyze unknown metallic alloys and salt compositions.

    The student will keep a laboratory workbook during the whole course and hand it in for evaluation at the end of every exercise section.

    The final grade is composed of the teacher’s grade for performance, the grade for the laboratory workbook and the grade for a short oral examination at the end of the course.

    Book: Qualitative Analysis and the Property of Ions in aqueous solutions, 2. Ed., by Slowinski and Masterton.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN210G
    Chemistry Laboratory 2
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Standardization of a pipette. Quantitative determinations of Ni in steel, Ca in milk, Na in water and wine.  Quantitative analysis of acetic acid and hydrogenperoxide. Identification of amino acid. Quantitative analysis of fluoride using electochemical cells.  Two component analysis using photometry.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • STÆ203G
    Probability and Statistics
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basic concepts in probability and statistics based on univariate calculus. 

    Topics: 
    Sample space, events, probability, equal probability, independent events, conditional probability, Bayes rule, random variables, distribution, density, joint distribution, independent random variables, condistional distribution, mean, variance, covariance, correlation, law of large numbers, Bernoulli, binomial, Poisson, uniform, exponential and normal random variables. Central limit theorem. Poisson process. Random sample, statistics, the distribution of the sample mean and the sample variance. Point estimate, maximum likelihood estimator, mean square error, bias. Interval estimates and hypotheses testing form normal, binomial and exponential samples. Simple linear regression. Goodness of fit tests, test of independence.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ213G
    Mathematical Analysis IIE
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Open and closed sets. Mappings, limits and continuity. Differentiable mappings, partial derivatives and the chain rule. Jacobi matrices. Gradients and directional derivatives. Mixed partial derivatives. Curves. Vector fields and flow. Cylindrical and spherical coordinates. Extreme values and the classification of stationary points. Extreme value problems with constraints.  Line integrals, primitive functions and exact differential equations. Double integrals. Improper integrals.  Change of variables in double integrals. Multiple integrals. Change of variables in multiple integrals. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Fall
  • EÐL306G
    Introduction to Quantum Mechanics
    Restricted elective course
    8
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is devoted to theoretical foundations of wave and quantum mechanics. The main concepts characterizing classical waves, such as wave equation, plane waves, wavepackets and phase and group velocity are discussed and then, after the introduction of the concept of particle-wave dualism are used to describe the properties of the de Broglie material waves corresponding to quantum particles. Dynamic and stationary Schrodinger equations are introduced, and their solutions for a set of physically important particular cases, including quantum tunneling, quantum potential well, quantum harmonic oscillator and Coulomb potential are analyzed in all necessary detail. The last part of the course is devoted to the quantum description of spin.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN311G
    Physical Chemistry A
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Content of course: Energy and the first law of thermodynamics. Chemical thermodynamics. Entropy and the second law of thermodynamics. The third  law of thermodynamics. Free energy. Phase equilibrium. Solutions, in particular ionic solutions. Chemical equilibrium. Electrochemistry. Transport processes: gas kinetics, diffusion and heat transport. Mechanism and rate of chemical reactions. Enzyme catalysis.

    Text book:  Atkins' Physical Chemistry 11th Edition

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN315G
    Thermodynamics and Introduction to Statistical Mechanics V
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basic principles and mathematical methods in thermodynamics,
    laws of thermodynamics, state functions, Maxwell relations, equilibrium, phase transitions, quantum statistical mechanics, ideal and real gases, specific heat, rate theory.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF302G
    Biochemistry 1
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    A thorough treatment of the fundamentals of biochemistry - part one; structure and function of macromolecules. The scope of biochemistry. Water and its properties. Interactions in biomolecules. Amino acids, peptides and the structure of proteins. Protein function.  Protein stability, folding, and dynamics related to function. Carbohydrates and glycobiology. Lipids, membranes and membrane proteins. Enzyme kinetics, regulation of enzyme activity, and mechanisms of enzyme catalysis. Signal transduction and membrane receptors. Structure of nucleic acids, stability, and basic recombinant technology. Final grade is combined from the final exam (85% ) and a midterm exam (15%).

    Lectures:
    Twice weekly (2 x 40 min.) Probelm solving class (2 x 40 min.) weekly.

    Course evaluation:
    Final exam (3 hours): 85% of final grade.
    Midterm: 15% of final grade.

    Textbook:
    Nelson D.L. & Cox M.M. Lehninger: Principles of Biochemistry, 8th Edition, 2021

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN304G
    Inorganic Chemistry 1
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The main purpose of this course is to teach the principles of chemical structure and bonding. The main focus will be on using symmetry and group theory in constructing molecular orbitals for simple molecules and ions. VSEPR and VB methods will also be used to study bonding and structure of molecules. The crystalline solid state, formulas, structures and properties. Each students performance in two interm exams will count as 20% of the final grade. The assignments will count as 5% of the final grade

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN309G
    Organic Chemistry I
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Organic chemistry appears all around us, both in the biological aspects of our world and in the production aspect of many of our daily products. Organic chemistry also appears in many other subjects, such as biochemistry, pharmaceutical science, food science, and medicine. Understanding of the organic chemistry can help deepen our understanding of  production processes in the chemical and food industry, biochemical pathways, and the manufacturing and bioactivity of drugs.

    In this course, we will cover the basics of organic chemistry. We will cover the various functional groups, their properties and reactivity, with a special emphasis on alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, alkyl halides, and aromatic compounds. We will also cover stereochemistry of organic compounds and their analysis and identification using NMR, IR, and MS.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN310G
    Organic Chemistry Laboratory 1
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Many of the compounds we use in our daily lives (plastics, medicine, glue and more) are produced via organic chemistry. The pharmaceutical industry is a good example of where it is important to be able to synthesize the right products, isolate/purify them and identify whether the correct product was synthesized. In this course, students will be trained in the main laboratory techniques of organic chemistry and can be beneficial in the chemical industry. Students will also receive training in analyzing their results and writing scientific reports.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • Spring 2
  • EFN410G
    Physical Chemistry B
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Content of course: Principles of quantum mechanics. Chemical bonds. Intermolecular- interactions. Relationship between quantum chemistry and spectroscopy. Spectroscopic methods. Spectral analysis. Introduction to laboratory exercises.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ405G
    Numerical Analysis
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Fundamental concepts on approximation and error estimates. Solutions of systems of linear and non-linear equations. PLU decomposition. Interpolating polynomials, spline interpolation and regression. Numerical differentiation and integration. Extrapolation. Numerical solutions of initial value problems of systems of ordinary differential equations. Multistep methods. Numerical solutions to boundary value problems for ordinary differential equations.

    Grades are given for programning projects and in total they amount to 30% of the final grade. The student has to receive the minimum grade of 5 for both the projects and the final exam.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN404G
    Inorganic Chemistry 2
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures: Summary of the chemistry of the main group elements. Coordination chemistry of the transition metals with main emphasis on bonding, structures, magnetic properties and electronic spectra. Each students performance in two interm exams will count as 25% of the final grade.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN406G
    Organic Chemistry 2
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Alcohols and phenols, ethers and epoxides, aldehydes and ketones, carboxylic acids, derivatives carbanions, amines, carbohydrates, amino acids and proteins. Spectroscopical identification of organic compounds.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN407G
    Organic Chemistry Laboratory 2
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Laboratory work: Synthesis and analytical organic chemistry.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN413G
    Physical Chemistry Laboratory AB
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Experiments: Solution calorimeter. Enthalpy of combustion (bomb calorimeter). Phase diagrams and distillation of liquid solutions. Chemical equilibrium and solubility derived from conductivity measurements. Reaction kinetics (rate equations). Electrolyte solutions. Heat of vaporization. Viscosity. Spectroscopy of organic dyes. Chemical equilibrium by spectroscopic methods. Fluorescence of micellar solution. NMR spectroscopy.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN414G
    Instrumental Analysis A
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is a practical course with weekly supportive lectures.  The lectures provide heroretical background of the instrumental methods and the instruments. The supportive lectures are part of lab exercises and attendance is compulsory.

    The students learn about modern methods and instruments used in analytical chemistry based on interaction between chemical- and physical properties of the substances and the electromagnetic field. Chromatographic methods used to separate mixtures into single pure compounds will be introduced.  The focus of the course is the analysis of organic compounds.

    Laboratory work: Fluorimetry, atomic absorption, spectrophotometry and applications of IR, UV and visible and NMR spectroscopy. Gas- and liquid (HPLC) chromatography. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS).

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • Fall
  • EFN509G
    Physical Chemistry Laboratory C
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    .

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN513M
    Inorganic Chemistry 3
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Reaction mechanisms in coordination chemistry. Stereochemistry of reactions. Organometallic chemistry. Organic ligands and nomenclature. General principles and survey of organometallic compounds. Organometallic reactions and mechanisms. Spectral analysis and characterization of organometallic complexes. Organometallic reactions and catalysis.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN514M
    Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory 3
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The objective of the laboratory work is to familiarize the students with synthetic inorganic chemistry. The students will prepare classical transition-metal complexes, main group and organometallic compounds. Common methods and techniques for handling air-sensitive inorganic compounds such as the use of a vacuum-line, reactions under inert atmosphere, high-temperature reactions and sublimation, will be introduced and used.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN515M
    Organic Chemistry 3
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Generation of carbanions and their reactions, such as alkylation of enolates, C vs. O alkylation, aldol condensation and acylation of carbons. Decarboxylation and formation of double bonds will also be covered, along with organometallic chemistry. General and specific laboratory techniques of synthesis and analysis and the use of databases (Scifinder). Spectroscopic identification of all compounds. 75% of homework must be turned in in order to be allowed to take the exam.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN516M
    Organic Chemistry Laboratory 3
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The students will be trained to work independently in the laboratory, which serves as preparation for research projects in graduate school or on the job. Instead of standard and well-tested protocols, like found in most undergraduate laboratory classes, general descriptions from books or journal articles will be used. Each student gets his own four-step synthesis project. The students will carry out the reactions, monitor their progress and isolate the products while documenting their work in their notebooks. They will solve problems that may come up while performing their experiments, including optimization of reaction conditions if the reactions don´t work as expected the first time around. The structures of the products will be verified by spectroscopic methods, in particular NMR.

    The students will be shown how to find reaction conditions in journal articles using databases (Scifinder). The lectures will also cover how results are communicated in scientific journals. The students will write an article describing their synthetic work, instead of writing reports for each step. A template from Organic Letters will be used.

    The synthesis projects are based on the material covered in EFN511G, where the theme is formation of C-C bonds, for example by alkylation of 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds, by the use of the Wittig and Grignard reactions, aldol condensations etc.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN261L
    Research Project in Chemistry
    Elective course
    0
    Free elective course within the programme
    0 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Students are given the opportunity to conduct a special topic in chemistry under the guidance of a Faculty member. The Head of the department must accept the project and supervisor prior to registration. The project is governed by rules issued by the Department of Chemistry on such special topics. The work is completed with a short thesis which is graded by the faculty member in charge and an additional faculty member. 

    Self-study
    Prerequisites
    Part of the total project/thesis credits
  • EFN307G
    Thermodynamics and Introduction to Statistical Mechanics
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basic principles and mathematical methods in thermodynamics,laws of thermodynamics, state functions, Maxwell relations, equilibrium, phase transitions, quantum statistical mechanics, ideal and real gases, specific heat, rate theory, Bose and Fermi distributions.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    EFN510G
    Computational Chemistry G
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Methods for calculating and predicting properties of matter and the rate of transitions. Students will learn to use software for setting up and carrying out calculations of various organic and inorganic compounds and to interpret
    the results for deeper insight and understanding of chemistry. Among the methods that will be introduced for calculating electron distribution are Hartree-Fock, density functional theory and perturbation theory (MP2). The compromises that need to be made in choosing basis sets and level of theory will be discussed.  Among methods used to calculate structure of molecules and movement of atoms are minimization techniques, classical dynamics, vibrational mode analysis, Monte Carlo and transition state theory.  The coursework includes laboratory exercises  involving computer calculations.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Spring 2
  • EFN612M
    Molecular spectroscopy and reaction dynamics
    Mandatory (required) course
    8
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course deals with the determination of the structure, energy levels, and reaction dynamics of molecules using the spectra resulting from the interaction between electromagnetic radiation and matter. The fundamentals of quantum mechanics applied to molecular spectra as well as experimental aspects of modern spectroscopic methods will be covered. The focus is on rotational and vibrational spectroscopies, electronic spectroscopy including time-resolved and single-molecule techniques, nuclear magnetic resonance, and electron paramagnetic resonance. The course involves weekly assignments and visits to experimental labs.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN261L
    Research Project in Chemistry
    Elective course
    0
    Free elective course within the programme
    0 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Students are given the opportunity to conduct a special topic in chemistry under the guidance of a Faculty member. The Head of the department must accept the project and supervisor prior to registration. The project is governed by rules issued by the Department of Chemistry on such special topics. The work is completed with a short thesis which is graded by the faculty member in charge and an additional faculty member. 

    Self-study
    Prerequisites
    Part of the total project/thesis credits
  • Not taught this semester
    EFN608M
    Organic Chemistry 4
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is focused on modern methods to synthesise organic compounds with emphasis on systematic build-up of knowledge to deal with modern organic synthesis. This is added to knowledge based on previous courses in organic chemistry, Organic Chemistry 1, 2 and 3, being prerequisites to this course. The lectures will deal with various nucleophilic substitutions and electrophilic additions, modern organometallic chemistry, heterocycles, reduction and selective reducing agents, pericyclic reactions and the Woodward-Hoffmann rules, oxidations and rearrangements. Stereochemistry and stereocontrol will also be discussed and its importance in organic syntheses. Application of enzymes in organic sythesis will also be covered. Protective groups and their importance in organic sytnhesis will be discussed and systematic design and performance of organic synthesis such as umpolung, retrosynthesis, retrosynthetic analysis together with relevant concepts and theories. Finally, various classical organic synthesis of complicated natural products in historical perspectives will be described and discussed in details.

    The course is intended for chemistry graduate students and students fulfillinng the prerequisites with the main aim to enable students to understand modern total synthesis of organic compounds.

    Face-to-face learning
    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
  • EFN610M
    Inorganic Chemistry 4
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The aim of this course is to provide an overview of the diverse and fascinating discipline of advanced inorganic chemistry. The course is divided into three topics; 1) bioinorganic chemistry with emphasis on the reaction chemistry of metals in proteins; 2) Metal organic frameworks (MOFs): detailed description of the synthesis and structural analysis of MOFs and their functional properties such as gas adsorption and heterogeneous catalysis; 3) Chemistry and periodicity among metals and nonmetals. Inorganic cages, rings, and clusters. Inorganic polymers. Industrial production processes of metals and metalloids. Inorganic chemical industry in Iceland.
    The focus is to provide students with the skills, knowledge and experience to develop their minds as professionals and independent researchers. This course will help students to understand and reason, how to approach a problem and evaluate their approaches by literature review followed by their analysis.
    The minimum requirements for this course are Inorganic chemistry 1, 2 and 3. Although, the course is intended for graduate students in chemistry, it is open to others who fulfill the requirements. The main goals are to train students to read and analyse modern inorganic chemistry and chemical process in a meaningful and professional way.

    Face-to-face learning
    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
  • EFN631G
    Current topics in Chemistry and Biochemistry
    Elective course
    1
    Free elective course within the programme
    1 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures in contemporary research in chemistry and biochemistry are given by invited speakers. Guest speakers will be from within the University of Iceland and from other universities, research institutes and companies.
    Attendance is compulsory. Minimum of 10 lectures must be attended to complete the course.

    Prerequisites
  • Fall
  • EÐL301G
    Solid State and Semiconductor Physics
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basics of quantum mechanics and statistical physics. The atom. Crystal structure. The band theory of solids. Semiconductors. Transport properties of semiconductors and metals. The band theory of solids. Optical properties of semiconductors. P-n junctions. Diodes. Transistors. MOS devices. Lasers, diodes and semiconductor optics.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL302G
    Classical Mechanics
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Newtonian dynamics of a particle in various coordinate systems. Harmonic, damped and forced oscillations of a pendulum. Nonlinear oscillations and chaos. Gravitation and tidal forces. Calculus of variations. Lagrangian and Hamiltonian dynamics, generalized coordinates and constraints. Central force motion and planetary orbits. Dynamics of a system of particles, collisions in a center-of-mass coordinate system and in a lab system. Motion in a non-inertial reference frame, Coriolis and centrifugal forces. Motion relative to the Earth. Mechanics of rigid bodies, inertia tensors and principal axes of inertia. Eulerian angles, and Euler's equations for a rigid body. Precession, motion of a symmetric top and stability of rigid body rotations. Coupled oscillations, eigenfrequencies and normal modes.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL506G
    Nuclei and Particles
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is devoted to the foundations of nuclear and elementary particle physics. It consists of the lectures on the corresponding theory and a laboratory of 2 week duration. In theoretical part students learn about basic ideas of nuclear physics, such as simplest nuclear models, basics of the scattering physics, types of elementary particles and their fundamental interactions. After that basics of the relativistic wave equations are introduced. The cases of Klein-Gordon, Higgs, and Dirac equations are considered. Higgs equation is used to introduce the fundamental concept of spontaneous symmetry breaking, necessary for the understanding of the appearance of a Higgs boson.  Solution of the Dirac equation for free particles is analyzed, and related fundamental concepts of antiparticles, helicity and chirality are considered in detail. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL509M
    Quantum Mechanics 1
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The postulates and formalism of quantum mechanics. One-dimensional systems. Angular momentum, spin, two level systems. Particles in a central potential, the hydrogen atom. Approximation methods. Time independent and time dependent perturbation. Scattering.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL520M
    Condensed Matter Physics 1
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is an introduction to some basic concepts of condensed matter physics. Curriculum: Chemical bonds, crystal structure, crystal symmetry, the reciprocal lattice. Vibrational modes of crystals, phonons, specific heat, thermal conductivity. The free electron model, band structure of condensed matter, effective mass. Metals, insulators and semiconductors. The course includes three labs.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • IÐN103G
    Engineering Management
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The purpose of the course is to prepare students for working in technology-based firms and organizations. The course will give an overview of the management of firms and organizations, the role of engineers and the challenges they face. Students will learn about analysis tools used in decision making, interpret the results, and communicate both orally and in writing.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • JEÐ502M
    Groundwater Hydrology
    Elective course
    7,5
    Free elective course within the programme
    7,5 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    A 7-week intensive course (first 7 weeks of fall term). 

    Taught if sufficient number of students. May be taugth as a reading course.

    Occurrence of groundwater, the water content of soil, properties and types of aquifers (porosity, retention, yield, storage coefficients; unconfined, confined, leaky, homogeneous, isotropic aquifers). Principles of groundwater flow. Darcy's law, groundwater potential, potentiometric surface, hydraulic conductivity, transmissivity, permeability, determination of hydraulic conductivity in homogeneous and anisotropic aquifers, permeability, flow lines and flow nets, refraction of flow lines, steady and unsteady flow in confined, unconfined and leaky aquifers, general flow equations. Groundwater flow to wells, drawdown and recovery caused by pumping wells, determination of aquifer parameters from time-drawdown data, well loss, capacity and efficiency. Sea-water intrusion in coastal aquifers. Mass transport of solutes by groundwater flow. Quality and pollution of groundwater. Case histories from groundwater studies in Iceland. Numerical models of groundwater flow.   Students carry out an interdisciplinary project on groundwater hydrology and management.

    Face-to-face learning
    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • LEF302G
    Biochemistry 1
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    A thorough treatment of the fundamentals of biochemistry - part one; structure and function of macromolecules. The scope of biochemistry. Water and its properties. Interactions in biomolecules. Amino acids, peptides and the structure of proteins. Protein function.  Protein stability, folding, and dynamics related to function. Carbohydrates and glycobiology. Lipids, membranes and membrane proteins. Enzyme kinetics, regulation of enzyme activity, and mechanisms of enzyme catalysis. Signal transduction and membrane receptors. Structure of nucleic acids, stability, and basic recombinant technology. Final grade is combined from the final exam (85% ) and a midterm exam (15%).

    Lectures:
    Twice weekly (2 x 40 min.) Probelm solving class (2 x 40 min.) weekly.

    Course evaluation:
    Final exam (3 hours): 85% of final grade.
    Midterm: 15% of final grade.

    Textbook:
    Nelson D.L. & Cox M.M. Lehninger: Principles of Biochemistry, 8th Edition, 2021

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF501M
    Biochemistry 3
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Practical class with accompanying lectures where practical and theoretical aspects of the experiments are discussed. Enzyme purification by hydrophobic, ion-exchange, affinity and gel filtration chromatography. Gel electrophoresis. Enzyme kinetics and inhibitors. Specific chemical modification of enzymes. Thermal stability of proteins. Ligand-protein interactions. Immunoprecipitation. Restriction enzymes and agarose electrophoresis.  Bioinformatics by computer.

    Practical projects:
    The following laboratory sessions are performed: Enzyme kinetics and the effect of inhibitors. Purification of enzymes by hydrophobic interactions, ion-exchange chromatography, affinity chromatography, and gel-filtration. Electrophoresis of protein and nucleic acids. Stability of proteins toward heating and urea/guanidinium assessed by activity measurements, UV-absorbance and circular dichroism. Determination of activation enery (Ea) and Gibb’s free energy. Specific reactions of amino acid side-chains in proteins for determining number of disulfide bonds and thiol groups. Action of reactive compounds as proteinase inhibitors differentiating between serine and cysteine proteases. Digestion of DNA by restriction enzymes and melting of DNA under various conditions that affect its stability. Preparation of samples for mass spectrometry by trypsin digestion and spotting of samples for MALDI-MS. Fingerprint identification using the computer program and database of Mascot. Bioinformatics and analysis of protein structures on the computer screen (e.q. BLAST, DeepView).

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF509M
    Applied Biochemistry
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Aimed at introducing students to aspects of applied biochemistry and biotechnology with emphasis on protein biotechnology. Lectures: Use of proteins in industry and medicine. Industrial use of enzymes. Enzyme reactors. Applications of immobilized enzymes. Biosensors. Use of recombinant DNA technology to genetically engineer organisms for production of biochemicals. Analytical biochemistry. Automaton in bioanalysis. Purification of bioproducts; scaling up of production lines and downstream processing. Tutorials: Recent research papers presented and discussed.

    Teaching methods:
    Lectures (about 40). Student lectures based on selected scientific papers.

    The course is taught together with ILT102F - Introduction to Applied Biotechnology. Students can only take one of the courses, not both. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÍF109G
    Genetics
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures: Mendelian inheritance. Sex chromosomes. Cytoplasmic inheritance. Chromosomes. Cell division (mitosis and meiosis). Life cycles. Linkage and recombination in eukaryotes. Bacterial genetics. Gene mapping and tetrad analysis. Genotype and phenotype. Chromosomal changes. DNA: Structure and replication. RNA: Transcription. Rgulation of gene transcription. Gene isolation and manipulation. Genomics. Transposons.  Mutations. Repair and recombination.  Model organisms. Laboratory work: : I. The fruitfly Drosophila melanogaster. II. Mitosis in onions. III. Plasmids and restriction enzymes. IV. PCR. V. Analysis of asci from Sordaria fimicola.

    Exam: Laboratory and problems 25%, written 75%. Minimum mark needed for each part.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÍF315G
    Cell Biology
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The cell biology part includes four lectures each week for 14 weeks (4L week for 14 weeks). The content includes: Introduction to cell biology, structure and evolution of eukaryotic cells. The main emphasis is on eukaryotic cells. Chemistry of the cell and energy conversion, structure and function of cellular macromolecules. The structure and function of cellular organs and functional units like the cell membrane, nucleus, mitochondria, chloroplasts, cytoskeleton, golgi-system, lysosomes and peroxisomes. Intracellular regulation and signal pathways linked to communication between cells, together with cell differentiation and cancer. Details on extracellular matrix are included and basic immunology.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÍF523G
    Methods in Molecular Biology
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is divided into lectures, practical sessions, discussions and student projects.

    Lectures: Theoretical basis of common molecular-biology techniques and their application in research. Course material provided by teachers.

    Laboratory practice in molecular biology techniques: Training in general molecular biology laboratory skills and active documentation in laboratory notebooks.

    Discussions are associated with all other parts (lectures, practicals and student projects)

    Main topics:  Laboratory notebooks, electronic laboratory notebooks and standard operating procedures (SOP's), use of online tools. Basics of DNA work and DNA cloning. Plasmids and plasmid maps, working with DNA sequences. DNA and RNA isolation and quantification (Southern and Northern blotting, PCR, RT-PCR, qRT-PCR), restriction enzymes, DNA sequencing techniques and data analysis. Basics of E. coli cultures and plasmid work. Basics of cell culture and transfection. Model organisms: E.coli, S. cerevisiae, C. reinhardtii, A. thaliana, C. elegans, D. melanogaster, M. musculus.  Transgenesis and genetic tools in bacteria, yeast and multicellular organisms. CRISPR technique and gRNA design. RNA interference and other methods for conditional gene expression and inhibition. Protein expression and analysis. How to raise and use antibodies for research. Western blot, immunostaining of cells and tissues, radioactive techniques. Microscopy in molecular biology. Methods used in recent research papers will be discussed.

    Student projects: Study of a recent method or method group. Output varies by year but aims at training students in reference work and different approaches to mediating scientific material. Examples include: Posters, Essays, Talks, Videos, Webpages and Podcasts.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LYF301G
    Microbiology and Virology
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course consists of two main parts, microbiology and infectious diseases. These parts are intergraded and provide the basis for knowledge and understanding of the characteristics of different pathogens and their relations to infectious diseases, preventions and treatment.  

    Teaching/learning procedures
    In the teaching is based on lectures and includes following parts:

    1. Bacteriology – basics
    2. Bacteriology – species/groups and bacterial infections in diverse organs and organ systems 
    3. Virology and viral infections, prions
    4. Mycology and fungal infections
    5. Parasitology and parasitic infections

    The students deliver their projects by introduction and/or reports, Exams are in each part of the course, during or following.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ302G
    Mathematical Analysis III
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Functions of a complex variable. Analytic functions. The exponential function, logarithms and roots. Cauchy's Integral Theorem and Cauchy's Integral Formula. Uniform convergence. Power series. Laurent series. Residue integration method. Application of complex function theory to fluid flows. Ordinary differential equations and systems of ordinary differential equations. Linear differential equations with constant coefficients. Systems of linear differential equations. The matrix exponential function. Various methods for obtaining a particular solution. Green's functions for initial value problems. Flows and the phase plane. Nonlinear systems of ordinary differential equations in the plane, equilibrium points, stability and linear approximations. Series solutions and the method of Frobenius. Use of Laplace transforms in solving differential equations.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    STÆ505M
    Partial Differential Equations
    Elective course
    10
    Free elective course within the programme
    10 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The object of the course is to give a firm and rigorous foundation for more advanced studies in partial differential equations. Contents: first order equations; the Cauchy-Kowalevski theorem; techniques of analysis (Lebesgue-integral, convolutions, Fourier-transform); distributions; fundamental solutions; the Laplace operator; the heat operator.  The course is mainly intended for postgraduate students with a good background in analysis.

    Distance learning
    Prerequisites
  • TÖL101G
    Computer Science 1
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The Java programming language will be used to introduce basic practices in computer programming. Practice in programming is scheduled throughout the semester. An emphasis is placed on logical methods for writing program and good documentation. Main ideas related to computers and programming. Classes, objects and methods. Control statements. Strings and arrays, operations and built-in functons. Input and output. Inheritance. Ideas relatied to system design and good practices for program writing. Iteration and recursion. Searching and Sorting.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    VÉL102M
    Energy Intensive Production Processes
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The aim of the course is:- To give students overview of processes in materials engineering;- To encourage students to think about feasible ways to utilize renewable energy. The course will cover the industrial processes in some of the larger Icelandic companies, including the production of ferro-alloys, aluminium smelting, rockwool production, recycling of steel, algea and diatomitemining, and production of sodium chlorine, fertilizers, cement. The course will also cover some of the larger material engineering processes that are not in practice in Iceland but may be a feasible option for Icelandic industry. Students will get good overview of the processes, required materials, source of power and power consumption, pollution, products etc. Discussions will be held on the financial background for individual processes, covering aspects such as production cost, profit and the influences of market share changes. Grades are based on 2 larger projects the students work on through the semester. Field trips are an important part of the course.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • VÉL301G
    Engineering Materials
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The objective of the course is to teach the fundamental principles of materials science so the student can better understand material behavior and select appropriate materials for a given application. Theoretical basis is given for the understanding of material behaviour from a microscopic view. The course includes the following topics: crystalline structures, imperfections, diffusion, mechanical properties, deformation and strengthening mechanisms, fracture and fatique, phase diagrams, phase transformations, thermal processing of metal alloys, types of materials (metal alloys, polymers, ceramics, composites), corrosion and degradation of of materials. The course includes homework problems and practical classes in laboratory.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • VÉL502G
    Fluid Mechanics
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Properties of liquids and gases. Pressure and force fields in liquids at rest, pressure gauges. Equations of motion, continuity, momentum and energy. Bernoulli equation of motion. Dimensional analysis and dynamic similarity. Two dimensional flow, non-viscous fluids, boundary layers theory, laminar and turbulent flow, fluid friction and form drag. Flow of compressible fluids, velocity of sound. Mach number, sound waves, nozzle shape for supersonic speed. Open channel flow. Several experiments are conducted.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Spring 2
  • EÐL610M
    General Relativity
    Elective course
    10
    Free elective course within the programme
    10 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course provides a basic introduction to Einstein's relativity theory: Special relativity, four-vectors and tensors. General relativity, spacetime curvature, the equivalence principle, Einstein's equations, experimental tests within the solar system, gravitational waves, black holes, cosmology.

    Teachers: Benjamin Knorr and Ziqi Yan, postdocs at Nordita

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL616M
    Modern Experimental Physics
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Presentation of important techniques used in experimental physics and of various phenomena related to the subject matter of the second and third year of the Physics curriculum. Six extensive experiments are made, most of which are related to active research in experimental physics at the Science Institute of the University of Iceland.  The course emphasizes independence in carrying out the experiments, data analysis and literature search.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    EÐL620M
    Life in the Universe
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    An introduction to astrobiology. Formation of the elements in the primordial plasma. Formation of heavy elements in stars and in their environments. Origin of galaxies, stellar systems, stars and planets. Formation of molecules and dust in the interstellar medium. Properties of Carbon and other elements necessary for life. Topics in biochemistry and thermodynamics. Origin and evolution of the Earth. Origin of water. The atmosphere. The Earth compared to other planets. What is life and what does it need? Origin and evolution of life on Earth. Life in extreme environments. Asteroids and impacts with the Earth. Effects of nearby supernovas. Is there life elsewhere in the Solar System, e.g. on Mars, Europa or Titan? Habitable worlds in the Universe. Extrasolar planets. The search for extraterrestrial intelligence. The Fermi paradox. Anthropic reasoning.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EVF401G
    Material and Energy Balances
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Introduction to processes and material and energy balance calculations applied to industrial processes. Analysis of gas behavior, gas-liquid systems, and phase equilibrium. Material balances, including reaction systems and multiple-unit systems. Energy balances, including reaction systems and multiple-unit systems, and combined energy-material balances.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EVF601M
    Process Design
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    A systematic introduction to the use of process simulators (like Aspen) to model, design and optimize chemical manufacturing processes. The selection, optimization and combination of reactors, separation equipment and heat exchangers. An introduction to the concepts and principles of project economics.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EVF602M
    Reaction Design
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Design of chemical reactors for economical processes and waste minimization. Contacting patterns, kinetics and transport rate effects in single phase and catalytic systems. Another goal of the course is to introduce the fundamentals of mass transfer in chemical engineering such as the mass transfer theory and how to set up differential equations and solve them for such systems.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • IÐN405G
    Design & Experimental Execution
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The purpose of the course is to train an engineering approach to experiments and experimental thinking. Experiments are designed, carried out, data collected and processed using statistical methods. Finally, it discussed how conclusions can be drawn from data / information when using experiments in for example product design and the design and operation of production systems.

    Course material: Linear and non-linear regression analysis. Analysis of Variances (ANOVA). Design of experiments. Statistical quality control. Non-parametric tests that can be used in data processing. Use of statistical programs when solving tasks.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF406G
    Biochemistry 2
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    In this course, the main metabolic processes of cells are studied, with a focus on carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism, as well as the metabolic regulation of these processes. The course begins with a detailed examination of carbohydrate metabolism, including glycolysis (both aerobic and anaerobic), the citric acid cycle, and the pentose phosphate pathway. Then we continue into pathways such as gluconeogenesis, glycogen breakdown, and then into how carbohydrate metabolism is regulated.

    Next, the focus shifts to fat metabolism, where the breakdown of triglycerides, fatty acid oxidation, and fatty acid synthesis are explained. Special emphasis is placed on the regulation of fat metabolism and the control of enzymes involved in these processes. Following this, protein metabolism is addressed, where protein hydrolysis, amino acid degradation, and the urea cycle are studied.

    The course also covers the integration and regulation of metabolic pathways, with a focus on the complex regulation that occurs in the key steps of these pathways, considering both intracellular signals and hormones. It examines how these processes adapt to various conditions to maintain homeostasis and the effects of disruptions in their regulation. Lastly, photosynthesis and the Calvin cycle are covered.

    This course is highly beneficial for those seeking an in-depth understanding of biochemical processes and the biochemistry of the human body.

    Lectures are held twice a week (2 x 40 minutes) over 13-14 weeks. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF616M
    Structure and Function of Proteins
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The characteristics of protein structures at the different structural levels. How structure determines the different properties of proteins. Structural classes of proteins and their characteristics. Relationship between molecular structure and biological function. Interactions that determine structural stability of proteins. Protein folding and unfolding. Effects of different parameters, e.g. temperature, pH, salts and denaturants on protein stability. Techniques used for determination structure and different properties proteins. Selected topics in protein structure function relationships.

    Course plan: Lectures twice per week (2x40 min. each time). Computer lab once per week (2x40 min.). Lab sessions involve training using the WWW to study proteins. Tutorials and practice of using SwissPDBviewer program for solving specific assignments related to topics covered in lectures.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF617M
    Biochemistry 4
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course focuses on methodology and recent innovations in biochemistry, emphasizing both analytical and computational techniques. It is divided into several modules, each taught by experts in their respective fields. While lectures form the core of the material, additional resources such as articles or book chapters may be assigned when appropriate. Practical demonstrations of research equipment may also be included. Students are expected to submit several written assignments throughout the semester.

    The course will explore recent research in various specialized areas of biochemistry, and the content of the modules is regularly updated.

    Topics covered may include single-molecule spectroscopy, protein mass spectrometry, structural biochemistry, binding affinity and thermodynamics, enzymology, and computational biochemistry.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    LÍF620M
    Ecotoxicology
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The objectives of the course are to introduce students to important pollutants, their characteristics and distribution, with emphasis on their effects on organisms. The first part of the course deals with the major classes of pollutants (Metals, Organic pollutants, Radioactivity), their origin, behaviour and characteristics. The second part focuses on bioavailability, bioaccumulation and bioconcentration and the effects of the pollutants on organisms. Biomarkers and bioassays will be discussed. The third part of the course deals with pollutants in arctic and subarctic areas, with emphasis on Iceland. Practical classes consist of four large projects.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÍF644M
    Molecular Genetics
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures: The molecular basis of life (chemical bonds, biological molecules, structure of DNA, RNA and proteins). Genomes and the flow of biological information. Chromosome structure and function, chromatin and nucleosomes. The cell cycle, DNA replication. Chromosome segregaition, Transcription. Regulation of transcription. RNA processing. Translation. Regulation of translation. Regulatory RNAs. Protein modification and targeting. DNA damage, checkpoints and DNA repair mechanisms. Repair of DNA double-strand breaks and homologous recombination. Mobile DNA elements. Tools and techniques in molecular Biology icluding Model organisms.

    Seminar: Students present and discuss selected research papers and hand in a short essay.

    Laboratory work: Work on molecular genetics project relevant to current research. Basic methods such as gene cloning, gene transfer and expression, PCR, sequencing, DNA isolation and restriction analysis, electrophoresis of DNA and proteins will be used.

    Exam: Laboratory 10%, seminar 15%, written final exam 75%.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    LVF601M
    Introduction to Systems Biology
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Systems biology is an interdisciplinary field that studies the biological phenomena that emerge from multiple interacting biological elements. Understanding how biological systems change across time is a particular focus of systems biology. In this course, we will prioritize aspects of systems biology relevant to human health and disease.

    This course provides an introduction to 1) basic principles in modelling molecular networks, both gene regulatory and metabolic networks; 2) cellular phenomena that support homeostasis like tissue morphogenesis and microbiome resilience, and 3) analysis of molecular patterns found in genomics data at population scale relevant to human disease such as patient classification and biomarker discovery. In this manner, the course covers the three major scales in systems biology: molecules, cells and organisms.

    The course activities include reading and interpreting scientific papers, implementation of computational algorithms, working on a research project and presentation of scientific results.

    Lectures will comprise of both (1) presentations on foundational concepts and (2) hands-on sessions using Python as the programming language. The course will be taught in English.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ202G
    Sets and Metric Spaces
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Elements of set theory: Sets. Mappings. Relations, equivalence relations, orderings. Finite, infinite, countable and uncountable sets. Equipotent sets. Construction of the number systems. Metric spaces: Open sets and closed sets, convergent sequences and Cauchy sequences, cluster points of sets and limit points of sequences. Continuous mappings, convergence, uniform continuity. Complete metric spaces. Uniform convergence and interchange of limits. The Banach fixed point theorem; existence theorem about solutions of first-order differential equations. Completion of metric spaces. Compact metric spaces. Connected sets. Infinite series, in particular function series.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ211G
    Mathematics for Physicists I
    Elective course
    2
    Free elective course within the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Python tools related to data analysis and plotting. Mathematical concepts such as vectors, matrices, differential operators in three dimensions, coordinate transformations, partial differential equations and Fourier series and their relation to undergraduate courses in physics and engineering. We will emphasize applications and problem solving.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL408G
    Mathematics for Physicists II
    Elective course
    2
    Free elective course within the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Python tools related to data analysis and manipulation of graphs. Differential equations and their use in the description of physical systems. Partial differential equations and boundary value problems. Special functions and their relation to important problems in physics. We will emphasize applications and problem solving.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ401G
    Mathematical Analysis IV
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Aim: To introduce the student to Fourier analysis and partial differential equations and their applications.
    Subject matter: Fourier series and orthonormal systems of functions, boundary-value problems for ordinary differential equations, the eigenvalue problem for Sturm-Liouville operators, Fourier transform. The wave equation, diffusion equation and Laplace's equation solved on various domains in one, two and three dimensions by methods based on the first part of the course, separation of variables, fundamental solution, Green's functions and the method of images.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ405G
    Numerical Analysis
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Fundamental concepts on approximation and error estimates. Solutions of systems of linear and non-linear equations. PLU decomposition. Interpolating polynomials, spline interpolation and regression. Numerical differentiation and integration. Extrapolation. Numerical solutions of initial value problems of systems of ordinary differential equations. Multistep methods. Numerical solutions to boundary value problems for ordinary differential equations.

    Grades are given for programning projects and in total they amount to 30% of the final grade. The student has to receive the minimum grade of 5 for both the projects and the final exam.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • TÖL203G
    Computer Science 2
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The programming language Java will be used in the course. Various data structures, algorithms and abstract data types will be covered. Among the data types and structures covered are lists, stacks, queues, priority queues, trees, binary trees, binary search trees and heaps along with related algorithms. Various search and sort algorithms will be covered. Algorithms will be analysed for their space and time complexity. There will be programming assignments in Java using the given data structures and algorithms. There will be many small assignments.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • VÉL405G
    Energy Processes
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Goal: Enable the students to: 1: Study thermodynamics from the viewpoint of the second law of thermodynamics 2. Understand standard power cycles, and their use for analysis of power plants 3. Understand air conditioning systems and their necessity 4. Understand thermochemistry and be able to estimate heat release through combustion. Content: Work, heat and energy conversion. Exergy and anergy. Energy, energy price and energy quality. Standard power and refrigeration cycles. Steam power cycles, geothermal utilization. Gas mixtures, moist air, ventilation and air purifiers. The Mollier i-x chart. Thermochemistry, combustion and reactions, chemical equilibrium. New energy systems. Exercises, design project.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • VÉL601G
    Heat Transfer
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Heat conduction, one and two dimensional systems, steady and unsteady heat conduction, numerical analysis of heat conduction systems. Fins and enlarged heat transfer surfaces. Heat transfer by convection, laminar and turbulent flow. Free and forced convection. Evaporation and condensation. Thermal radiation, Stefan-Boltzmann's and Planck's laws. Thermal radiation properties of materials. Shape factors, radiative heat exchange between surfaces, radiation properties of gases. Heat exchangers and their design. Special topics in heat transfer.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • SAG448G
    Episodes from the history of philosophy of science
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course aims to introduce students to the nature and development of science by examining episodes of its history and by disucssing recent theories concerning the nature, aims, and development of science. A special emphasis will be placed on the history of physical science from Aristotle to Newton, including developments in astronomy during the scientific revolution of the 16th and 17th century. We will also specifically examine the history of Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. These episodes and many others will be viewed through the lens of various theories of scientific progress, and through recent views about interactions between science and society at large. The course material may change depending on the students’ interest.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • SAG817M
    Episodes from the history of philosophy of science
    Elective course
    10
    Free elective course within the programme
    10 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course aims to introduce students to the nature and development of science by examining episodes of its history and by disucssing recent theories concerning the nature, aims, and development of science. A special emphasis will be placed on the history of physical science from Aristotle to Newton, including developments in astronomy during the scientific revolution of the 16th and 17th century. We will also specifically examine the history of Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. These episodes and many others will be viewed through the lens of various theories of scientific progress, and through recent views about interactions between science and society at large. The course material may change depending on the students’ interest.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
Year unspecified
  • Fall
  • EÐL102G
    Physics 1 V
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Concepts, units, scales and dimensions. Vectors. Kinematics of particles. Particle dynamics, inertia, forces and Newton's laws. Friction. Work and energy, conservation of energy. Momentum, collisions. Systems of particles, center of mass. Rotation of a rigid body. Angular momentum and moment of inertia. Statics. Gravity. Solids and fluids, Bernoulli's equation. Oscillations: Simple, damped and forced. Waves. Sound. Temperature. Ideal gas. Heat and the first law of thermodynamics. Kinetic theory of gases. Entropy and the second law of thermodynamics. Home problems: Once a week the students have to solve homeproblems on the website MasteringPhysics.

    Laboratory work: Three exercises, mainly centered on mechanics, where students are trained in handling physical instruments, collecting and inspecting data. Students hand in their lab notebooks for a grade.

    Note that the textbook is accessible to students via Canvas free of charge.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN108G
    General Chemistry 1
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The basis of the atomic theory. Stoichiometry. Types of chemical reactions and solution stoichiometry. Properties of gases. Chemical equilibrium. Acids and bases. Applications of aqueous equilibria. Chemical thermodynamics. Enthropy, free energy and equilibrium. Electrochemistry. Chemical kinetics. Physical properties of solutions.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN109G
    Chemistry Laboratory 1
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Molar volume of gases, thermochemistry, reaction enthalpies and Hesse's law, Rate of chemical reactions, decomposition of hydrogen peroxide, reaction reversibility and Le Chatelier's principle, determination of acid ionization constants, oxidation-reduction; electrochemistry, thermodynamics of an electrochemical cell.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN114G
    Introduction to Scientific Programming
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The goal of this course is to learn how to use the programming language Python for scientific programming. The basics of scientific computing, such as flow control with logical operators and loops, are explained. Plotting data in 1D, 2D and 3D will be taught, extracting data and changing it, evaluating sums, and how you can calculate simple problems in linear algebra (vectors and matrices). The course starts in week 6 and spans for 9 weeks of the semester. A written examination taken at a computer terminal constitutes 60% of the final mark. Projects handed in during the semester yield the other 40%.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ104G
    Mathematical Analysis I
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This is a foundational course in single variable calculus. The prerequisites are high school courses on algebra, trigonometry. derivatives, and integrals. The course aims to create a foundation for understanding of subjects such as natural and physical sciences, engineering, economics, and computer science. Topics of the course include the following:

    • Real numbers.
    • Limits and continuous functions.
    • Differentiable functions, rules for derivatives, derivatives of higher order, applications of differential calculus (extremal value problems, linear approximation).
    • Transcendental functions.
    • Mean value theorem, theorems of l'Hôpital and Taylor.
    • Integration, the definite integral and rules/techniques of integration, primitives, improper integrals.
    • Fundamental theorem of calculus.
    • Applications of integral calculus: Arc length, area, volume, centroids.
    • Ordinary differential equations: First-order separable and homogeneous differential equations, first-order linear equations, second-order linear equations with constant coefficients.
    • Sequences and series, convergence tests.
    • Power series, Taylor series.
    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ107G
    Linear Algebra
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basics of linear algebra over the reals.  

    Subject matter: Systems of linear equations, matrices, Gauss-Jordan reduction.  Vector spaces and their subspaces.  Linearly independent sets, bases and dimension.  Linear maps, range space and nullk space.  The dot product, length and angle measures.  Volumes in higher dimension and the cross product in threedimensional space.  Flats, parametric descriptions and descriptions by equations.  Orthogonal projections and orthonormal bases.  Gram-Schmidt orthogonalization.  Determinants and inverses of matrices.  Eigenvalues, eigenvectors and diagonalization.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Spring 2
  • EÐL208G
    Physics 2 E
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is taught together with EÐL201G. The class is given for 8 weeks (spread over 11 week period).Topics: Charge and electric field. Gauss' law. Electric potential. Capacitors and dielectrics. Electric currents and resistance. Magnetic fields. The laws of Ampère and Faraday. Induction. Maxwell's equations. Electromagnetic waves. Reflection and refraction. Lenses and mirrors. Wave optics. Two laboratory exercises in optics.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN202G
    General Chemistry 2
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course focuses on the structure of the periodic table and properties of the elements based on their place in the periodic table. The students learn about the naturally occurring forms of the elements, isolation of the elements and common chemical reactions. Atomic theory is taught as a base for understanding the properties of the elements and their reactivity. Early theories of the structure of the hydrogen atome put forward by Bohr and their development to modern view of the atom structure are covered. The electronic structure of the atom is described, and theories describing formation of chemical bonds such as valence bond theory, VSEPR, and molecular orbital theory are used to determine structures and predict reactivity of molecules. Processes for purification of metals from their naturally occurring ores is covered as well as properties of metalloids and nonmetals. The transition metal elements, and the formation of coordination compounds with solubility, equilibria, ions and electron pair donors will be introduced. Radioactivity, formation and types of radioactive species, reactions and their applications will be introduced.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN208G
    Analytical Chemistry
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Review of fundamental concepts in quantitative analysis. Gravimetric methods. Chemical equilibria: Acid-base, precipitation, complexation, oxidation-reduction. Theory and applications of titrations based on the aforementioned equilibria. Introduction to the electrochemistry. Potentiometric and electrogravimetric methods.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN209G
    Chemistry Laboratory 3
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course contains independent, individual exercises in qualitative analyses. The student will conduct analyses of cations from the first, second, third and fourth group as well as selected anions. Supporting lectures accompany the laboratory work.

    In the first half of the course, students will analyze prepared aqueous solutions of unknown compositions. In the second half the student will analyze unknown metallic alloys and salt compositions.

    The student will keep a laboratory workbook during the whole course and hand it in for evaluation at the end of every exercise section.

    The final grade is composed of the teacher’s grade for performance, the grade for the laboratory workbook and the grade for a short oral examination at the end of the course.

    Book: Qualitative Analysis and the Property of Ions in aqueous solutions, 2. Ed., by Slowinski and Masterton.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN210G
    Chemistry Laboratory 2
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Standardization of a pipette. Quantitative determinations of Ni in steel, Ca in milk, Na in water and wine.  Quantitative analysis of acetic acid and hydrogenperoxide. Identification of amino acid. Quantitative analysis of fluoride using electochemical cells.  Two component analysis using photometry.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • STÆ203G
    Probability and Statistics
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basic concepts in probability and statistics based on univariate calculus. 

    Topics: 
    Sample space, events, probability, equal probability, independent events, conditional probability, Bayes rule, random variables, distribution, density, joint distribution, independent random variables, condistional distribution, mean, variance, covariance, correlation, law of large numbers, Bernoulli, binomial, Poisson, uniform, exponential and normal random variables. Central limit theorem. Poisson process. Random sample, statistics, the distribution of the sample mean and the sample variance. Point estimate, maximum likelihood estimator, mean square error, bias. Interval estimates and hypotheses testing form normal, binomial and exponential samples. Simple linear regression. Goodness of fit tests, test of independence.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ213G
    Mathematical Analysis IIE
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Open and closed sets. Mappings, limits and continuity. Differentiable mappings, partial derivatives and the chain rule. Jacobi matrices. Gradients and directional derivatives. Mixed partial derivatives. Curves. Vector fields and flow. Cylindrical and spherical coordinates. Extreme values and the classification of stationary points. Extreme value problems with constraints.  Line integrals, primitive functions and exact differential equations. Double integrals. Improper integrals.  Change of variables in double integrals. Multiple integrals. Change of variables in multiple integrals. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Fall
  • EÐL306G
    Introduction to Quantum Mechanics
    Restricted elective course
    8
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is devoted to theoretical foundations of wave and quantum mechanics. The main concepts characterizing classical waves, such as wave equation, plane waves, wavepackets and phase and group velocity are discussed and then, after the introduction of the concept of particle-wave dualism are used to describe the properties of the de Broglie material waves corresponding to quantum particles. Dynamic and stationary Schrodinger equations are introduced, and their solutions for a set of physically important particular cases, including quantum tunneling, quantum potential well, quantum harmonic oscillator and Coulomb potential are analyzed in all necessary detail. The last part of the course is devoted to the quantum description of spin.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN311G
    Physical Chemistry A
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Content of course: Energy and the first law of thermodynamics. Chemical thermodynamics. Entropy and the second law of thermodynamics. The third  law of thermodynamics. Free energy. Phase equilibrium. Solutions, in particular ionic solutions. Chemical equilibrium. Electrochemistry. Transport processes: gas kinetics, diffusion and heat transport. Mechanism and rate of chemical reactions. Enzyme catalysis.

    Text book:  Atkins' Physical Chemistry 11th Edition

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN315G
    Thermodynamics and Introduction to Statistical Mechanics V
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basic principles and mathematical methods in thermodynamics,
    laws of thermodynamics, state functions, Maxwell relations, equilibrium, phase transitions, quantum statistical mechanics, ideal and real gases, specific heat, rate theory.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF302G
    Biochemistry 1
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    A thorough treatment of the fundamentals of biochemistry - part one; structure and function of macromolecules. The scope of biochemistry. Water and its properties. Interactions in biomolecules. Amino acids, peptides and the structure of proteins. Protein function.  Protein stability, folding, and dynamics related to function. Carbohydrates and glycobiology. Lipids, membranes and membrane proteins. Enzyme kinetics, regulation of enzyme activity, and mechanisms of enzyme catalysis. Signal transduction and membrane receptors. Structure of nucleic acids, stability, and basic recombinant technology. Final grade is combined from the final exam (85% ) and a midterm exam (15%).

    Lectures:
    Twice weekly (2 x 40 min.) Probelm solving class (2 x 40 min.) weekly.

    Course evaluation:
    Final exam (3 hours): 85% of final grade.
    Midterm: 15% of final grade.

    Textbook:
    Nelson D.L. & Cox M.M. Lehninger: Principles of Biochemistry, 8th Edition, 2021

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN304G
    Inorganic Chemistry 1
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The main purpose of this course is to teach the principles of chemical structure and bonding. The main focus will be on using symmetry and group theory in constructing molecular orbitals for simple molecules and ions. VSEPR and VB methods will also be used to study bonding and structure of molecules. The crystalline solid state, formulas, structures and properties. Each students performance in two interm exams will count as 20% of the final grade. The assignments will count as 5% of the final grade

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN309G
    Organic Chemistry I
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Organic chemistry appears all around us, both in the biological aspects of our world and in the production aspect of many of our daily products. Organic chemistry also appears in many other subjects, such as biochemistry, pharmaceutical science, food science, and medicine. Understanding of the organic chemistry can help deepen our understanding of  production processes in the chemical and food industry, biochemical pathways, and the manufacturing and bioactivity of drugs.

    In this course, we will cover the basics of organic chemistry. We will cover the various functional groups, their properties and reactivity, with a special emphasis on alkanes, alkenes, alkynes, alkyl halides, and aromatic compounds. We will also cover stereochemistry of organic compounds and their analysis and identification using NMR, IR, and MS.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN310G
    Organic Chemistry Laboratory 1
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Many of the compounds we use in our daily lives (plastics, medicine, glue and more) are produced via organic chemistry. The pharmaceutical industry is a good example of where it is important to be able to synthesize the right products, isolate/purify them and identify whether the correct product was synthesized. In this course, students will be trained in the main laboratory techniques of organic chemistry and can be beneficial in the chemical industry. Students will also receive training in analyzing their results and writing scientific reports.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • Spring 2
  • EFN410G
    Physical Chemistry B
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Content of course: Principles of quantum mechanics. Chemical bonds. Intermolecular- interactions. Relationship between quantum chemistry and spectroscopy. Spectroscopic methods. Spectral analysis. Introduction to laboratory exercises.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ405G
    Numerical Analysis
    Restricted elective course
    6
    Restricted elective course, conditions apply
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Fundamental concepts on approximation and error estimates. Solutions of systems of linear and non-linear equations. PLU decomposition. Interpolating polynomials, spline interpolation and regression. Numerical differentiation and integration. Extrapolation. Numerical solutions of initial value problems of systems of ordinary differential equations. Multistep methods. Numerical solutions to boundary value problems for ordinary differential equations.

    Grades are given for programning projects and in total they amount to 30% of the final grade. The student has to receive the minimum grade of 5 for both the projects and the final exam.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN404G
    Inorganic Chemistry 2
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures: Summary of the chemistry of the main group elements. Coordination chemistry of the transition metals with main emphasis on bonding, structures, magnetic properties and electronic spectra. Each students performance in two interm exams will count as 25% of the final grade.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN406G
    Organic Chemistry 2
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Alcohols and phenols, ethers and epoxides, aldehydes and ketones, carboxylic acids, derivatives carbanions, amines, carbohydrates, amino acids and proteins. Spectroscopical identification of organic compounds.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN407G
    Organic Chemistry Laboratory 2
    Mandatory (required) course
    3
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    3 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Laboratory work: Synthesis and analytical organic chemistry.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN413G
    Physical Chemistry Laboratory AB
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Experiments: Solution calorimeter. Enthalpy of combustion (bomb calorimeter). Phase diagrams and distillation of liquid solutions. Chemical equilibrium and solubility derived from conductivity measurements. Reaction kinetics (rate equations). Electrolyte solutions. Heat of vaporization. Viscosity. Spectroscopy of organic dyes. Chemical equilibrium by spectroscopic methods. Fluorescence of micellar solution. NMR spectroscopy.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN414G
    Instrumental Analysis A
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is a practical course with weekly supportive lectures.  The lectures provide heroretical background of the instrumental methods and the instruments. The supportive lectures are part of lab exercises and attendance is compulsory.

    The students learn about modern methods and instruments used in analytical chemistry based on interaction between chemical- and physical properties of the substances and the electromagnetic field. Chromatographic methods used to separate mixtures into single pure compounds will be introduced.  The focus of the course is the analysis of organic compounds.

    Laboratory work: Fluorimetry, atomic absorption, spectrophotometry and applications of IR, UV and visible and NMR spectroscopy. Gas- and liquid (HPLC) chromatography. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS).

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • Fall
  • EFN509G
    Physical Chemistry Laboratory C
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    .

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN513M
    Inorganic Chemistry 3
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Reaction mechanisms in coordination chemistry. Stereochemistry of reactions. Organometallic chemistry. Organic ligands and nomenclature. General principles and survey of organometallic compounds. Organometallic reactions and mechanisms. Spectral analysis and characterization of organometallic complexes. Organometallic reactions and catalysis.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN514M
    Inorganic Chemistry Laboratory 3
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The objective of the laboratory work is to familiarize the students with synthetic inorganic chemistry. The students will prepare classical transition-metal complexes, main group and organometallic compounds. Common methods and techniques for handling air-sensitive inorganic compounds such as the use of a vacuum-line, reactions under inert atmosphere, high-temperature reactions and sublimation, will be introduced and used.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN515M
    Organic Chemistry 3
    Mandatory (required) course
    6
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Generation of carbanions and their reactions, such as alkylation of enolates, C vs. O alkylation, aldol condensation and acylation of carbons. Decarboxylation and formation of double bonds will also be covered, along with organometallic chemistry. General and specific laboratory techniques of synthesis and analysis and the use of databases (Scifinder). Spectroscopic identification of all compounds. 75% of homework must be turned in in order to be allowed to take the exam.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN516M
    Organic Chemistry Laboratory 3
    Mandatory (required) course
    4
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    4 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The students will be trained to work independently in the laboratory, which serves as preparation for research projects in graduate school or on the job. Instead of standard and well-tested protocols, like found in most undergraduate laboratory classes, general descriptions from books or journal articles will be used. Each student gets his own four-step synthesis project. The students will carry out the reactions, monitor their progress and isolate the products while documenting their work in their notebooks. They will solve problems that may come up while performing their experiments, including optimization of reaction conditions if the reactions don´t work as expected the first time around. The structures of the products will be verified by spectroscopic methods, in particular NMR.

    The students will be shown how to find reaction conditions in journal articles using databases (Scifinder). The lectures will also cover how results are communicated in scientific journals. The students will write an article describing their synthetic work, instead of writing reports for each step. A template from Organic Letters will be used.

    The synthesis projects are based on the material covered in EFN511G, where the theme is formation of C-C bonds, for example by alkylation of 1,3-dicarbonyl compounds, by the use of the Wittig and Grignard reactions, aldol condensations etc.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • EFN261L
    Research Project in Chemistry
    Elective course
    0
    Free elective course within the programme
    0 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Students are given the opportunity to conduct a special topic in chemistry under the guidance of a Faculty member. The Head of the department must accept the project and supervisor prior to registration. The project is governed by rules issued by the Department of Chemistry on such special topics. The work is completed with a short thesis which is graded by the faculty member in charge and an additional faculty member. 

    Self-study
    Prerequisites
    Part of the total project/thesis credits
  • EFN307G
    Thermodynamics and Introduction to Statistical Mechanics
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basic principles and mathematical methods in thermodynamics,laws of thermodynamics, state functions, Maxwell relations, equilibrium, phase transitions, quantum statistical mechanics, ideal and real gases, specific heat, rate theory, Bose and Fermi distributions.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    EFN510G
    Computational Chemistry G
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Methods for calculating and predicting properties of matter and the rate of transitions. Students will learn to use software for setting up and carrying out calculations of various organic and inorganic compounds and to interpret
    the results for deeper insight and understanding of chemistry. Among the methods that will be introduced for calculating electron distribution are Hartree-Fock, density functional theory and perturbation theory (MP2). The compromises that need to be made in choosing basis sets and level of theory will be discussed.  Among methods used to calculate structure of molecules and movement of atoms are minimization techniques, classical dynamics, vibrational mode analysis, Monte Carlo and transition state theory.  The coursework includes laboratory exercises  involving computer calculations.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Spring 2
  • EFN612M
    Molecular spectroscopy and reaction dynamics
    Mandatory (required) course
    8
    A mandatory (required) course for the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course deals with the determination of the structure, energy levels, and reaction dynamics of molecules using the spectra resulting from the interaction between electromagnetic radiation and matter. The fundamentals of quantum mechanics applied to molecular spectra as well as experimental aspects of modern spectroscopic methods will be covered. The focus is on rotational and vibrational spectroscopies, electronic spectroscopy including time-resolved and single-molecule techniques, nuclear magnetic resonance, and electron paramagnetic resonance. The course involves weekly assignments and visits to experimental labs.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EFN261L
    Research Project in Chemistry
    Elective course
    0
    Free elective course within the programme
    0 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Students are given the opportunity to conduct a special topic in chemistry under the guidance of a Faculty member. The Head of the department must accept the project and supervisor prior to registration. The project is governed by rules issued by the Department of Chemistry on such special topics. The work is completed with a short thesis which is graded by the faculty member in charge and an additional faculty member. 

    Self-study
    Prerequisites
    Part of the total project/thesis credits
  • Not taught this semester
    EFN608M
    Organic Chemistry 4
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is focused on modern methods to synthesise organic compounds with emphasis on systematic build-up of knowledge to deal with modern organic synthesis. This is added to knowledge based on previous courses in organic chemistry, Organic Chemistry 1, 2 and 3, being prerequisites to this course. The lectures will deal with various nucleophilic substitutions and electrophilic additions, modern organometallic chemistry, heterocycles, reduction and selective reducing agents, pericyclic reactions and the Woodward-Hoffmann rules, oxidations and rearrangements. Stereochemistry and stereocontrol will also be discussed and its importance in organic syntheses. Application of enzymes in organic sythesis will also be covered. Protective groups and their importance in organic sytnhesis will be discussed and systematic design and performance of organic synthesis such as umpolung, retrosynthesis, retrosynthetic analysis together with relevant concepts and theories. Finally, various classical organic synthesis of complicated natural products in historical perspectives will be described and discussed in details.

    The course is intended for chemistry graduate students and students fulfillinng the prerequisites with the main aim to enable students to understand modern total synthesis of organic compounds.

    Face-to-face learning
    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
  • EFN610M
    Inorganic Chemistry 4
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The aim of this course is to provide an overview of the diverse and fascinating discipline of advanced inorganic chemistry. The course is divided into three topics; 1) bioinorganic chemistry with emphasis on the reaction chemistry of metals in proteins; 2) Metal organic frameworks (MOFs): detailed description of the synthesis and structural analysis of MOFs and their functional properties such as gas adsorption and heterogeneous catalysis; 3) Chemistry and periodicity among metals and nonmetals. Inorganic cages, rings, and clusters. Inorganic polymers. Industrial production processes of metals and metalloids. Inorganic chemical industry in Iceland.
    The focus is to provide students with the skills, knowledge and experience to develop their minds as professionals and independent researchers. This course will help students to understand and reason, how to approach a problem and evaluate their approaches by literature review followed by their analysis.
    The minimum requirements for this course are Inorganic chemistry 1, 2 and 3. Although, the course is intended for graduate students in chemistry, it is open to others who fulfill the requirements. The main goals are to train students to read and analyse modern inorganic chemistry and chemical process in a meaningful and professional way.

    Face-to-face learning
    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
  • EFN631G
    Current topics in Chemistry and Biochemistry
    Elective course
    1
    Free elective course within the programme
    1 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures in contemporary research in chemistry and biochemistry are given by invited speakers. Guest speakers will be from within the University of Iceland and from other universities, research institutes and companies.
    Attendance is compulsory. Minimum of 10 lectures must be attended to complete the course.

    Prerequisites
  • Fall
  • EÐL301G
    Solid State and Semiconductor Physics
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Basics of quantum mechanics and statistical physics. The atom. Crystal structure. The band theory of solids. Semiconductors. Transport properties of semiconductors and metals. The band theory of solids. Optical properties of semiconductors. P-n junctions. Diodes. Transistors. MOS devices. Lasers, diodes and semiconductor optics.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL302G
    Classical Mechanics
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Newtonian dynamics of a particle in various coordinate systems. Harmonic, damped and forced oscillations of a pendulum. Nonlinear oscillations and chaos. Gravitation and tidal forces. Calculus of variations. Lagrangian and Hamiltonian dynamics, generalized coordinates and constraints. Central force motion and planetary orbits. Dynamics of a system of particles, collisions in a center-of-mass coordinate system and in a lab system. Motion in a non-inertial reference frame, Coriolis and centrifugal forces. Motion relative to the Earth. Mechanics of rigid bodies, inertia tensors and principal axes of inertia. Eulerian angles, and Euler's equations for a rigid body. Precession, motion of a symmetric top and stability of rigid body rotations. Coupled oscillations, eigenfrequencies and normal modes.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL506G
    Nuclei and Particles
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is devoted to the foundations of nuclear and elementary particle physics. It consists of the lectures on the corresponding theory and a laboratory of 2 week duration. In theoretical part students learn about basic ideas of nuclear physics, such as simplest nuclear models, basics of the scattering physics, types of elementary particles and their fundamental interactions. After that basics of the relativistic wave equations are introduced. The cases of Klein-Gordon, Higgs, and Dirac equations are considered. Higgs equation is used to introduce the fundamental concept of spontaneous symmetry breaking, necessary for the understanding of the appearance of a Higgs boson.  Solution of the Dirac equation for free particles is analyzed, and related fundamental concepts of antiparticles, helicity and chirality are considered in detail. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL509M
    Quantum Mechanics 1
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The postulates and formalism of quantum mechanics. One-dimensional systems. Angular momentum, spin, two level systems. Particles in a central potential, the hydrogen atom. Approximation methods. Time independent and time dependent perturbation. Scattering.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL520M
    Condensed Matter Physics 1
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is an introduction to some basic concepts of condensed matter physics. Curriculum: Chemical bonds, crystal structure, crystal symmetry, the reciprocal lattice. Vibrational modes of crystals, phonons, specific heat, thermal conductivity. The free electron model, band structure of condensed matter, effective mass. Metals, insulators and semiconductors. The course includes three labs.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • IÐN103G
    Engineering Management
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The purpose of the course is to prepare students for working in technology-based firms and organizations. The course will give an overview of the management of firms and organizations, the role of engineers and the challenges they face. Students will learn about analysis tools used in decision making, interpret the results, and communicate both orally and in writing.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • JEÐ502M
    Groundwater Hydrology
    Elective course
    7,5
    Free elective course within the programme
    7,5 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    A 7-week intensive course (first 7 weeks of fall term). 

    Taught if sufficient number of students. May be taugth as a reading course.

    Occurrence of groundwater, the water content of soil, properties and types of aquifers (porosity, retention, yield, storage coefficients; unconfined, confined, leaky, homogeneous, isotropic aquifers). Principles of groundwater flow. Darcy's law, groundwater potential, potentiometric surface, hydraulic conductivity, transmissivity, permeability, determination of hydraulic conductivity in homogeneous and anisotropic aquifers, permeability, flow lines and flow nets, refraction of flow lines, steady and unsteady flow in confined, unconfined and leaky aquifers, general flow equations. Groundwater flow to wells, drawdown and recovery caused by pumping wells, determination of aquifer parameters from time-drawdown data, well loss, capacity and efficiency. Sea-water intrusion in coastal aquifers. Mass transport of solutes by groundwater flow. Quality and pollution of groundwater. Case histories from groundwater studies in Iceland. Numerical models of groundwater flow.   Students carry out an interdisciplinary project on groundwater hydrology and management.

    Face-to-face learning
    The course is taught if the specified conditions are met
    Prerequisites
    Course taught first half of the semester
  • LEF302G
    Biochemistry 1
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    A thorough treatment of the fundamentals of biochemistry - part one; structure and function of macromolecules. The scope of biochemistry. Water and its properties. Interactions in biomolecules. Amino acids, peptides and the structure of proteins. Protein function.  Protein stability, folding, and dynamics related to function. Carbohydrates and glycobiology. Lipids, membranes and membrane proteins. Enzyme kinetics, regulation of enzyme activity, and mechanisms of enzyme catalysis. Signal transduction and membrane receptors. Structure of nucleic acids, stability, and basic recombinant technology. Final grade is combined from the final exam (85% ) and a midterm exam (15%).

    Lectures:
    Twice weekly (2 x 40 min.) Probelm solving class (2 x 40 min.) weekly.

    Course evaluation:
    Final exam (3 hours): 85% of final grade.
    Midterm: 15% of final grade.

    Textbook:
    Nelson D.L. & Cox M.M. Lehninger: Principles of Biochemistry, 8th Edition, 2021

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF501M
    Biochemistry 3
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Practical class with accompanying lectures where practical and theoretical aspects of the experiments are discussed. Enzyme purification by hydrophobic, ion-exchange, affinity and gel filtration chromatography. Gel electrophoresis. Enzyme kinetics and inhibitors. Specific chemical modification of enzymes. Thermal stability of proteins. Ligand-protein interactions. Immunoprecipitation. Restriction enzymes and agarose electrophoresis.  Bioinformatics by computer.

    Practical projects:
    The following laboratory sessions are performed: Enzyme kinetics and the effect of inhibitors. Purification of enzymes by hydrophobic interactions, ion-exchange chromatography, affinity chromatography, and gel-filtration. Electrophoresis of protein and nucleic acids. Stability of proteins toward heating and urea/guanidinium assessed by activity measurements, UV-absorbance and circular dichroism. Determination of activation enery (Ea) and Gibb’s free energy. Specific reactions of amino acid side-chains in proteins for determining number of disulfide bonds and thiol groups. Action of reactive compounds as proteinase inhibitors differentiating between serine and cysteine proteases. Digestion of DNA by restriction enzymes and melting of DNA under various conditions that affect its stability. Preparation of samples for mass spectrometry by trypsin digestion and spotting of samples for MALDI-MS. Fingerprint identification using the computer program and database of Mascot. Bioinformatics and analysis of protein structures on the computer screen (e.q. BLAST, DeepView).

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF509M
    Applied Biochemistry
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Aimed at introducing students to aspects of applied biochemistry and biotechnology with emphasis on protein biotechnology. Lectures: Use of proteins in industry and medicine. Industrial use of enzymes. Enzyme reactors. Applications of immobilized enzymes. Biosensors. Use of recombinant DNA technology to genetically engineer organisms for production of biochemicals. Analytical biochemistry. Automaton in bioanalysis. Purification of bioproducts; scaling up of production lines and downstream processing. Tutorials: Recent research papers presented and discussed.

    Teaching methods:
    Lectures (about 40). Student lectures based on selected scientific papers.

    The course is taught together with ILT102F - Introduction to Applied Biotechnology. Students can only take one of the courses, not both. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÍF109G
    Genetics
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures: Mendelian inheritance. Sex chromosomes. Cytoplasmic inheritance. Chromosomes. Cell division (mitosis and meiosis). Life cycles. Linkage and recombination in eukaryotes. Bacterial genetics. Gene mapping and tetrad analysis. Genotype and phenotype. Chromosomal changes. DNA: Structure and replication. RNA: Transcription. Rgulation of gene transcription. Gene isolation and manipulation. Genomics. Transposons.  Mutations. Repair and recombination.  Model organisms. Laboratory work: : I. The fruitfly Drosophila melanogaster. II. Mitosis in onions. III. Plasmids and restriction enzymes. IV. PCR. V. Analysis of asci from Sordaria fimicola.

    Exam: Laboratory and problems 25%, written 75%. Minimum mark needed for each part.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÍF315G
    Cell Biology
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The cell biology part includes four lectures each week for 14 weeks (4L week for 14 weeks). The content includes: Introduction to cell biology, structure and evolution of eukaryotic cells. The main emphasis is on eukaryotic cells. Chemistry of the cell and energy conversion, structure and function of cellular macromolecules. The structure and function of cellular organs and functional units like the cell membrane, nucleus, mitochondria, chloroplasts, cytoskeleton, golgi-system, lysosomes and peroxisomes. Intracellular regulation and signal pathways linked to communication between cells, together with cell differentiation and cancer. Details on extracellular matrix are included and basic immunology.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LÍF523G
    Methods in Molecular Biology
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course is divided into lectures, practical sessions, discussions and student projects.

    Lectures: Theoretical basis of common molecular-biology techniques and their application in research. Course material provided by teachers.

    Laboratory practice in molecular biology techniques: Training in general molecular biology laboratory skills and active documentation in laboratory notebooks.

    Discussions are associated with all other parts (lectures, practicals and student projects)

    Main topics:  Laboratory notebooks, electronic laboratory notebooks and standard operating procedures (SOP's), use of online tools. Basics of DNA work and DNA cloning. Plasmids and plasmid maps, working with DNA sequences. DNA and RNA isolation and quantification (Southern and Northern blotting, PCR, RT-PCR, qRT-PCR), restriction enzymes, DNA sequencing techniques and data analysis. Basics of E. coli cultures and plasmid work. Basics of cell culture and transfection. Model organisms: E.coli, S. cerevisiae, C. reinhardtii, A. thaliana, C. elegans, D. melanogaster, M. musculus.  Transgenesis and genetic tools in bacteria, yeast and multicellular organisms. CRISPR technique and gRNA design. RNA interference and other methods for conditional gene expression and inhibition. Protein expression and analysis. How to raise and use antibodies for research. Western blot, immunostaining of cells and tissues, radioactive techniques. Microscopy in molecular biology. Methods used in recent research papers will be discussed.

    Student projects: Study of a recent method or method group. Output varies by year but aims at training students in reference work and different approaches to mediating scientific material. Examples include: Posters, Essays, Talks, Videos, Webpages and Podcasts.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
    Attendance required in class
  • LYF301G
    Microbiology and Virology
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The course consists of two main parts, microbiology and infectious diseases. These parts are intergraded and provide the basis for knowledge and understanding of the characteristics of different pathogens and their relations to infectious diseases, preventions and treatment.  

    Teaching/learning procedures
    In the teaching is based on lectures and includes following parts:

    1. Bacteriology – basics
    2. Bacteriology – species/groups and bacterial infections in diverse organs and organ systems 
    3. Virology and viral infections, prions
    4. Mycology and fungal infections
    5. Parasitology and parasitic infections

    The students deliver their projects by introduction and/or reports, Exams are in each part of the course, during or following.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ302G
    Mathematical Analysis III
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Functions of a complex variable. Analytic functions. The exponential function, logarithms and roots. Cauchy's Integral Theorem and Cauchy's Integral Formula. Uniform convergence. Power series. Laurent series. Residue integration method. Application of complex function theory to fluid flows. Ordinary differential equations and systems of ordinary differential equations. Linear differential equations with constant coefficients. Systems of linear differential equations. The matrix exponential function. Various methods for obtaining a particular solution. Green's functions for initial value problems. Flows and the phase plane. Nonlinear systems of ordinary differential equations in the plane, equilibrium points, stability and linear approximations. Series solutions and the method of Frobenius. Use of Laplace transforms in solving differential equations.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    STÆ505M
    Partial Differential Equations
    Elective course
    10
    Free elective course within the programme
    10 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The object of the course is to give a firm and rigorous foundation for more advanced studies in partial differential equations. Contents: first order equations; the Cauchy-Kowalevski theorem; techniques of analysis (Lebesgue-integral, convolutions, Fourier-transform); distributions; fundamental solutions; the Laplace operator; the heat operator.  The course is mainly intended for postgraduate students with a good background in analysis.

    Distance learning
    Prerequisites
  • TÖL101G
    Computer Science 1
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The Java programming language will be used to introduce basic practices in computer programming. Practice in programming is scheduled throughout the semester. An emphasis is placed on logical methods for writing program and good documentation. Main ideas related to computers and programming. Classes, objects and methods. Control statements. Strings and arrays, operations and built-in functons. Input and output. Inheritance. Ideas relatied to system design and good practices for program writing. Iteration and recursion. Searching and Sorting.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    VÉL102M
    Energy Intensive Production Processes
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The aim of the course is:- To give students overview of processes in materials engineering;- To encourage students to think about feasible ways to utilize renewable energy. The course will cover the industrial processes in some of the larger Icelandic companies, including the production of ferro-alloys, aluminium smelting, rockwool production, recycling of steel, algea and diatomitemining, and production of sodium chlorine, fertilizers, cement. The course will also cover some of the larger material engineering processes that are not in practice in Iceland but may be a feasible option for Icelandic industry. Students will get good overview of the processes, required materials, source of power and power consumption, pollution, products etc. Discussions will be held on the financial background for individual processes, covering aspects such as production cost, profit and the influences of market share changes. Grades are based on 2 larger projects the students work on through the semester. Field trips are an important part of the course.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • VÉL301G
    Engineering Materials
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The objective of the course is to teach the fundamental principles of materials science so the student can better understand material behavior and select appropriate materials for a given application. Theoretical basis is given for the understanding of material behaviour from a microscopic view. The course includes the following topics: crystalline structures, imperfections, diffusion, mechanical properties, deformation and strengthening mechanisms, fracture and fatique, phase diagrams, phase transformations, thermal processing of metal alloys, types of materials (metal alloys, polymers, ceramics, composites), corrosion and degradation of of materials. The course includes homework problems and practical classes in laboratory.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • VÉL502G
    Fluid Mechanics
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Properties of liquids and gases. Pressure and force fields in liquids at rest, pressure gauges. Equations of motion, continuity, momentum and energy. Bernoulli equation of motion. Dimensional analysis and dynamic similarity. Two dimensional flow, non-viscous fluids, boundary layers theory, laminar and turbulent flow, fluid friction and form drag. Flow of compressible fluids, velocity of sound. Mach number, sound waves, nozzle shape for supersonic speed. Open channel flow. Several experiments are conducted.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Spring 2
  • EÐL610M
    General Relativity
    Elective course
    10
    Free elective course within the programme
    10 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course provides a basic introduction to Einstein's relativity theory: Special relativity, four-vectors and tensors. General relativity, spacetime curvature, the equivalence principle, Einstein's equations, experimental tests within the solar system, gravitational waves, black holes, cosmology.

    Teachers: Benjamin Knorr and Ziqi Yan, postdocs at Nordita

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL616M
    Modern Experimental Physics
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Presentation of important techniques used in experimental physics and of various phenomena related to the subject matter of the second and third year of the Physics curriculum. Six extensive experiments are made, most of which are related to active research in experimental physics at the Science Institute of the University of Iceland.  The course emphasizes independence in carrying out the experiments, data analysis and literature search.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    EÐL620M
    Life in the Universe
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    An introduction to astrobiology. Formation of the elements in the primordial plasma. Formation of heavy elements in stars and in their environments. Origin of galaxies, stellar systems, stars and planets. Formation of molecules and dust in the interstellar medium. Properties of Carbon and other elements necessary for life. Topics in biochemistry and thermodynamics. Origin and evolution of the Earth. Origin of water. The atmosphere. The Earth compared to other planets. What is life and what does it need? Origin and evolution of life on Earth. Life in extreme environments. Asteroids and impacts with the Earth. Effects of nearby supernovas. Is there life elsewhere in the Solar System, e.g. on Mars, Europa or Titan? Habitable worlds in the Universe. Extrasolar planets. The search for extraterrestrial intelligence. The Fermi paradox. Anthropic reasoning.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EVF401G
    Material and Energy Balances
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Introduction to processes and material and energy balance calculations applied to industrial processes. Analysis of gas behavior, gas-liquid systems, and phase equilibrium. Material balances, including reaction systems and multiple-unit systems. Energy balances, including reaction systems and multiple-unit systems, and combined energy-material balances.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EVF601M
    Process Design
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    A systematic introduction to the use of process simulators (like Aspen) to model, design and optimize chemical manufacturing processes. The selection, optimization and combination of reactors, separation equipment and heat exchangers. An introduction to the concepts and principles of project economics.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EVF602M
    Reaction Design
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Design of chemical reactors for economical processes and waste minimization. Contacting patterns, kinetics and transport rate effects in single phase and catalytic systems. Another goal of the course is to introduce the fundamentals of mass transfer in chemical engineering such as the mass transfer theory and how to set up differential equations and solve them for such systems.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • IÐN405G
    Design & Experimental Execution
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The purpose of the course is to train an engineering approach to experiments and experimental thinking. Experiments are designed, carried out, data collected and processed using statistical methods. Finally, it discussed how conclusions can be drawn from data / information when using experiments in for example product design and the design and operation of production systems.

    Course material: Linear and non-linear regression analysis. Analysis of Variances (ANOVA). Design of experiments. Statistical quality control. Non-parametric tests that can be used in data processing. Use of statistical programs when solving tasks.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF406G
    Biochemistry 2
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    In this course, the main metabolic processes of cells are studied, with a focus on carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism, as well as the metabolic regulation of these processes. The course begins with a detailed examination of carbohydrate metabolism, including glycolysis (both aerobic and anaerobic), the citric acid cycle, and the pentose phosphate pathway. Then we continue into pathways such as gluconeogenesis, glycogen breakdown, and then into how carbohydrate metabolism is regulated.

    Next, the focus shifts to fat metabolism, where the breakdown of triglycerides, fatty acid oxidation, and fatty acid synthesis are explained. Special emphasis is placed on the regulation of fat metabolism and the control of enzymes involved in these processes. Following this, protein metabolism is addressed, where protein hydrolysis, amino acid degradation, and the urea cycle are studied.

    The course also covers the integration and regulation of metabolic pathways, with a focus on the complex regulation that occurs in the key steps of these pathways, considering both intracellular signals and hormones. It examines how these processes adapt to various conditions to maintain homeostasis and the effects of disruptions in their regulation. Lastly, photosynthesis and the Calvin cycle are covered.

    This course is highly beneficial for those seeking an in-depth understanding of biochemical processes and the biochemistry of the human body.

    Lectures are held twice a week (2 x 40 minutes) over 13-14 weeks. 

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF616M
    Structure and Function of Proteins
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The characteristics of protein structures at the different structural levels. How structure determines the different properties of proteins. Structural classes of proteins and their characteristics. Relationship between molecular structure and biological function. Interactions that determine structural stability of proteins. Protein folding and unfolding. Effects of different parameters, e.g. temperature, pH, salts and denaturants on protein stability. Techniques used for determination structure and different properties proteins. Selected topics in protein structure function relationships.

    Course plan: Lectures twice per week (2x40 min. each time). Computer lab once per week (2x40 min.). Lab sessions involve training using the WWW to study proteins. Tutorials and practice of using SwissPDBviewer program for solving specific assignments related to topics covered in lectures.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LEF617M
    Biochemistry 4
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course focuses on methodology and recent innovations in biochemistry, emphasizing both analytical and computational techniques. It is divided into several modules, each taught by experts in their respective fields. While lectures form the core of the material, additional resources such as articles or book chapters may be assigned when appropriate. Practical demonstrations of research equipment may also be included. Students are expected to submit several written assignments throughout the semester.

    The course will explore recent research in various specialized areas of biochemistry, and the content of the modules is regularly updated.

    Topics covered may include single-molecule spectroscopy, protein mass spectrometry, structural biochemistry, binding affinity and thermodynamics, enzymology, and computational biochemistry.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    LÍF620M
    Ecotoxicology
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The objectives of the course are to introduce students to important pollutants, their characteristics and distribution, with emphasis on their effects on organisms. The first part of the course deals with the major classes of pollutants (Metals, Organic pollutants, Radioactivity), their origin, behaviour and characteristics. The second part focuses on bioavailability, bioaccumulation and bioconcentration and the effects of the pollutants on organisms. Biomarkers and bioassays will be discussed. The third part of the course deals with pollutants in arctic and subarctic areas, with emphasis on Iceland. Practical classes consist of four large projects.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • LÍF644M
    Molecular Genetics
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Lectures: The molecular basis of life (chemical bonds, biological molecules, structure of DNA, RNA and proteins). Genomes and the flow of biological information. Chromosome structure and function, chromatin and nucleosomes. The cell cycle, DNA replication. Chromosome segregaition, Transcription. Regulation of transcription. RNA processing. Translation. Regulation of translation. Regulatory RNAs. Protein modification and targeting. DNA damage, checkpoints and DNA repair mechanisms. Repair of DNA double-strand breaks and homologous recombination. Mobile DNA elements. Tools and techniques in molecular Biology icluding Model organisms.

    Seminar: Students present and discuss selected research papers and hand in a short essay.

    Laboratory work: Work on molecular genetics project relevant to current research. Basic methods such as gene cloning, gene transfer and expression, PCR, sequencing, DNA isolation and restriction analysis, electrophoresis of DNA and proteins will be used.

    Exam: Laboratory 10%, seminar 15%, written final exam 75%.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • Not taught this semester
    LVF601M
    Introduction to Systems Biology
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Systems biology is an interdisciplinary field that studies the biological phenomena that emerge from multiple interacting biological elements. Understanding how biological systems change across time is a particular focus of systems biology. In this course, we will prioritize aspects of systems biology relevant to human health and disease.

    This course provides an introduction to 1) basic principles in modelling molecular networks, both gene regulatory and metabolic networks; 2) cellular phenomena that support homeostasis like tissue morphogenesis and microbiome resilience, and 3) analysis of molecular patterns found in genomics data at population scale relevant to human disease such as patient classification and biomarker discovery. In this manner, the course covers the three major scales in systems biology: molecules, cells and organisms.

    The course activities include reading and interpreting scientific papers, implementation of computational algorithms, working on a research project and presentation of scientific results.

    Lectures will comprise of both (1) presentations on foundational concepts and (2) hands-on sessions using Python as the programming language. The course will be taught in English.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ202G
    Sets and Metric Spaces
    Elective course
    8
    Free elective course within the programme
    8 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Elements of set theory: Sets. Mappings. Relations, equivalence relations, orderings. Finite, infinite, countable and uncountable sets. Equipotent sets. Construction of the number systems. Metric spaces: Open sets and closed sets, convergent sequences and Cauchy sequences, cluster points of sets and limit points of sequences. Continuous mappings, convergence, uniform continuity. Complete metric spaces. Uniform convergence and interchange of limits. The Banach fixed point theorem; existence theorem about solutions of first-order differential equations. Completion of metric spaces. Compact metric spaces. Connected sets. Infinite series, in particular function series.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ211G
    Mathematics for Physicists I
    Elective course
    2
    Free elective course within the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Python tools related to data analysis and plotting. Mathematical concepts such as vectors, matrices, differential operators in three dimensions, coordinate transformations, partial differential equations and Fourier series and their relation to undergraduate courses in physics and engineering. We will emphasize applications and problem solving.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • EÐL408G
    Mathematics for Physicists II
    Elective course
    2
    Free elective course within the programme
    2 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Python tools related to data analysis and manipulation of graphs. Differential equations and their use in the description of physical systems. Partial differential equations and boundary value problems. Special functions and their relation to important problems in physics. We will emphasize applications and problem solving.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ401G
    Mathematical Analysis IV
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Aim: To introduce the student to Fourier analysis and partial differential equations and their applications.
    Subject matter: Fourier series and orthonormal systems of functions, boundary-value problems for ordinary differential equations, the eigenvalue problem for Sturm-Liouville operators, Fourier transform. The wave equation, diffusion equation and Laplace's equation solved on various domains in one, two and three dimensions by methods based on the first part of the course, separation of variables, fundamental solution, Green's functions and the method of images.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • STÆ405G
    Numerical Analysis
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Fundamental concepts on approximation and error estimates. Solutions of systems of linear and non-linear equations. PLU decomposition. Interpolating polynomials, spline interpolation and regression. Numerical differentiation and integration. Extrapolation. Numerical solutions of initial value problems of systems of ordinary differential equations. Multistep methods. Numerical solutions to boundary value problems for ordinary differential equations.

    Grades are given for programning projects and in total they amount to 30% of the final grade. The student has to receive the minimum grade of 5 for both the projects and the final exam.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • TÖL203G
    Computer Science 2
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    The programming language Java will be used in the course. Various data structures, algorithms and abstract data types will be covered. Among the data types and structures covered are lists, stacks, queues, priority queues, trees, binary trees, binary search trees and heaps along with related algorithms. Various search and sort algorithms will be covered. Algorithms will be analysed for their space and time complexity. There will be programming assignments in Java using the given data structures and algorithms. There will be many small assignments.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • VÉL405G
    Energy Processes
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Goal: Enable the students to: 1: Study thermodynamics from the viewpoint of the second law of thermodynamics 2. Understand standard power cycles, and their use for analysis of power plants 3. Understand air conditioning systems and their necessity 4. Understand thermochemistry and be able to estimate heat release through combustion. Content: Work, heat and energy conversion. Exergy and anergy. Energy, energy price and energy quality. Standard power and refrigeration cycles. Steam power cycles, geothermal utilization. Gas mixtures, moist air, ventilation and air purifiers. The Mollier i-x chart. Thermochemistry, combustion and reactions, chemical equilibrium. New energy systems. Exercises, design project.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • VÉL601G
    Heat Transfer
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    Heat conduction, one and two dimensional systems, steady and unsteady heat conduction, numerical analysis of heat conduction systems. Fins and enlarged heat transfer surfaces. Heat transfer by convection, laminar and turbulent flow. Free and forced convection. Evaporation and condensation. Thermal radiation, Stefan-Boltzmann's and Planck's laws. Thermal radiation properties of materials. Shape factors, radiative heat exchange between surfaces, radiation properties of gases. Heat exchangers and their design. Special topics in heat transfer.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • SAG448G
    Episodes from the history of philosophy of science
    Elective course
    6
    Free elective course within the programme
    6 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course aims to introduce students to the nature and development of science by examining episodes of its history and by disucssing recent theories concerning the nature, aims, and development of science. A special emphasis will be placed on the history of physical science from Aristotle to Newton, including developments in astronomy during the scientific revolution of the 16th and 17th century. We will also specifically examine the history of Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. These episodes and many others will be viewed through the lens of various theories of scientific progress, and through recent views about interactions between science and society at large. The course material may change depending on the students’ interest.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
  • SAG817M
    Episodes from the history of philosophy of science
    Elective course
    10
    Free elective course within the programme
    10 ECTS, credits
    Course Description

    This course aims to introduce students to the nature and development of science by examining episodes of its history and by disucssing recent theories concerning the nature, aims, and development of science. A special emphasis will be placed on the history of physical science from Aristotle to Newton, including developments in astronomy during the scientific revolution of the 16th and 17th century. We will also specifically examine the history of Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection. These episodes and many others will be viewed through the lens of various theories of scientific progress, and through recent views about interactions between science and society at large. The course material may change depending on the students’ interest.

    Face-to-face learning
    Prerequisites
Additional information

The University of Iceland collaborates with over 400 universities worldwide. This provides a unique opportunity to pursue part of your studies at an international university thus gaining added experience and fresh insight into your field of study.

Students generally have the opportunity to join an exchange programme, internship, or summer courses. However, exchanges are always subject to faculty approval.

Students have the opportunity to have courses evaluated as part of their studies at the University of Iceland, so their stay does not have to affect the duration of their studies.

A BS in chemistry doesn't confer any specific professional certification.

Chemists are in high demand in a wide variety of professional fields.

For example, entrepreneurial companies often value employees with a background in chemistry. Independent working practices and creative thinking are assets in research and development.

There is also a great demand for teachers with a chemistry background in Icelandic upper secondary schools.

An education in this area can open up opportunities in:

  • Innovation and research
  • Chemical industries
  • Teaching

This list is not exhaustive.

More about the UI student's social life

Students' comments
Sigrún Elísa
I enjoyed science in high school and wanted to work in chemical production. The highly practical degree offers diverse opportunities in fields like cosmetic chemistry and toxicology. Chemists are in high demand, thanks to strong hands-on training. The student association is active, organising weekly events that make it easy to connect with classmates, providing a fun balance to the challenging coursework.
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I've always wanted to work in science, and I chose chemistry because it was my favorite subject in upper secondary school. The chemistry programme at the University of Iceland provides a solid foundation, both for further education and career wise. Chemists are particularly sought after in innovation, research and development, and for teaching. I have thoroughly enjoyed my studies. They are both demanding, enjoyable, and the social life is incredibly vibrant. Since the department is relatively small, everyone within the field knows each other, even across different years, and you also get to know the professors well. Then there is our student association, Hvarf, always organizing exciting events! I learned so much during these three years of study. I am especially grateful for all the experience gained in the laboratory, as there is a strong emphasis on hands-on learning in the programme I highly recommend studying chemistry!
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Engineering and Natural Sciences
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University of Iceland, Tæknigarður (Centre for Technical Innovation)

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