Department of Physics
Vision:
To inculcate scientific temperament and analytical thinking among students.
Mission:
To instill a deep liking for physics in students. This should culminate in new knowledge for the betterment of mankind.
The Department of Physics is one of the earliest in the Institution since its establishment in 1963. Late Mr. A. B. Coelho was the first Head of Department and served, in that capacity, until his retirement in 1998. He was succeeded, as H.O.D., by Mr. Rajendra V. Kanekar (1998-2013), Dr. Benedict Soares (2013-2014), Mr. Pradeep Morajkar (2014-2019), Mr. Manoj D. Salgaonkar (2019-2022), currently Prof. Nelson Lobo head of the Department.
Besides, Mr. Coelho, the Department boasts of stalwarts like Mr. C. Bhosale, Mrs. Flavia Barbosa, Mr. Peter Morris and Mr. B.S. Keshavan as its former faculty members.
Initially, Physics was a subsidiary subject. From June 1990, the Institution offers Six Units in Physics at the Final Year level.
Professor
Prof. Domnic Nelson Lobo (HOD)
Associate Professor
Dr. Benedict Soares
Professor
Dr. Mathias Bosco Lawrence
Associate Professor
Dr. Manoj D. Salgaonkar
Associate Professor
Mr. Pradeep V. Morajkar
Assistant Professor
Mr. Sujay Rane
Assistant Professor
Ms. Avani Talkatkar
Ms. Vaillanie Socorrinha Fernandes
Laboratory Assistant
Mr. Ivan Fernandes
Laboratory Technician
Mr. Suresh Parwar
Multi-tasking Staff
Programs/Seminars/Workshops held by the Department
The Department of Physics conducts a Study Tour for TYBSc students every year in order to inculcate research methodology, broaden thinking horizons and keeping up to date with current trends in Physics and the working of research instrumentation. During the academic year 2024-2025, the Department visited the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bengaluru, this academic year(2025-2026), the Study tour to Raman Research Institute (RRI) – Bengaluru.
We also introduced our students to study field trips based on Indian knowledge systems by visiting ancient historical sites such as Forts, museums etc where the students learn about the physics and technology of those glorious days. Our Physics students took part in inter college events and won the 2nd place at BOSON 2 physics competition held at Dhempe College Miramar.
We also conduct various skill based workshops like PCB design and Soldering techniques for our students to highlight skills that would be useful in later life.
Physics graduates have a wide range of options in career and research avenues. They can pursue higher studies in M. Tech., M.Sc. in Physics/Electronics, MCA, LLB, and Library Science. The employment prospects for Physics students are very bright and they are much sought after in reputed institutes like BARC, TIFR, IISc , ISRO, the Defence forces and the field of teaching among the others. Similarly, the alumni of the department have found employment and research openings in countries like UK, USA, Canada , the middle East and South Africa.
We conduct various skill based workshops like PCB design and Soldering techniques for our students to highlight skills that would be useful in later life.
Erisha Franco
“The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing.” – Albert Einstein
These words beautifully capture the spirit of studying Physics, and my journey as a B.Sc. Physics student at St. Xavier’s College truly reflected this idea. My time in the Department of Physics was both inspiring and enriching, and it greatly shaped my understanding of science and the world around us. The faculty members are highly knowledgeable, approachable, and always willing to guide students patiently. Their enthusiasm for the subject makes even challenging concepts easier to understand and encourages students to think critically and ask meaningful questions.
Studying Physics helped me realize that it is much more than equations and theories. Physics is a way of understanding the laws that govern nature — from the motion of everyday objects to the technology we use in our daily lives. It helps us see the connection between simple observations and the deeper principles that explain how the universe works.
The department also provides excellent laboratory facilities where students can perform experiments and see theory come alive. These practical experiences helped strengthen our understanding and made learning more engaging.
I am sincerely thankful to the Department of Physics at St. Xavier’s College for nurturing my curiosity and passion for the subject. I would warmly encourage students who are interested in exploring the beauty and logic of science to consider pursuing Physics here.