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William I. Fine Theoretical Physics Institute

FTPI Mission Statement

The William I. Fine Theoretical Physics Institute (FTPI) was established with the primary goal of conducting research in theoretical physics at a world-class level. By so doing, FTPI contributes significantly to the science of physics, improves the quality of education, and enriches the intellectual environment of both the University of Minnesota and the State of Minnesota.

2025 Summer School

Apply for the 2025 Physics Summer School Today! 

Application Form

FTPI summer school flyer featuring details about the event, including date, location, and speakers.

About Us

The Theoretical Physics Institute was first established in 1987, thanks to the support of William I. Fine, a generous and visionary donor and friend. In 2002, following his untimely death, the Institute was renamed in his honor. To fulfill its mission, FTPI leads a wide variety of programs, including running scientific meetings, mentoring students and postdocs, and providing outreach to the public. Together, these programs support the development of and awareness of research that could answer questions at the cutting edge of theoretical physics. These programs also help build links to other areas of science and engineering, including industrial research, broadening the impact of theoretical physics in those and other fields.

News

Kip Thorne in 2022

2025 Misel Family Public Lecture

18th Annual Misel Lecture with Professor Thorne, California Institute of Technology. Wednesday, October 29th @ 7:00 pm in the McNamara Alumni Center.
Maxim Pospelov

Pospelov awarded 2024 Frontiers of Science Award

FTPI Professor Maxim Pospelov was awarded a 2024 Frontiers of Science Award for his 2014 article, "Neutrino Trident Production: A Powerful Probe of New Physics with Neutrino Beams"
Kakalios with super hero action figures in the foreground

NASA’s MN Space Grant Consortium (MnSGC) Student Symposium

John T. Tate Hall will play host to NASA’s MN Space Grant Consortium (MnSGC) Student Symposium on Saturday, February 22, 2025 from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm.