Since 1989, research in the Department of Physics at the Paderborn University has concentrated on the future-oriented key technologies of optoelectronics and photonics, research into new materials and the development of innovative components. In the field of theoretical physics, research in the area of many-particle or solid-state theory rounds off the spectrum. Young, successful professors guarantee the continuity of this cutting-edge research. In 2006, the central research facility "Center of Optoelectronics and Photonics Paderborn" (CeOPP) was founded. Physicists work together with chemists and electrical engineers on fundamental or application-oriented topics; excellent laboratories and clean rooms are available to them. Research in the field of optical technologies has been funded by the DFG since 2008 through the Research Training Group GRK 1464 "Micro and Nanostructures in Optoelectronics and Photonics" and since 2014 through the Collaborative Research Center Transregio TRR 142 "Tailored Nonlinear Photonics: From Fundamental Concepts to Functional Structures".

Students benefit from the dedicated, successful researchers and the activities of the research groups. They receive an excellent education with a comfortable supervision situation in a well-equipped environment. The proximity to research enables them to work on current topics in their bachelor's and master's theses and to develop their scientific skills. Innovative teaching concepts optimally prepare the future physicists for their activities. The Department of Physics is strongly committed to the training of teachers and in 2012 expanded its activities in teacher training to include the area of natural science teaching at the primary level.