The Department of Astronomy and Theoretical Physics (ATP) was formed in 2010.  Back then the intention was that this would be a temporary organizational form, and that it would merge with the Department of Physics within three years.  The planned merger never happened and now, over a decade later, Lund University still had its physics subjects split between the two departments.  This was commented on in the Lund University's research quality evaluation 2020, where it says "The decentralization has some benefits, but if physics and astronomy shall remain internationally visible (and in some cases leading) during the next decades, a reorganization is recommended."

During the fall of 2022 the Faculty of Science will work to reorganize the physics research units.  Most researchers currently working within the Department of Astronomy and Theoretical Physics will be affiliated with the Department of Physics as of January 1st, 2023, while some will be affiliated with other departments.  The intention is that Computational Biology and Biological Physics (CBBP) will join The Centre for Environmental and Climate Science (CEC).

ATP and the Department of Physics have had a close collaboration for many years when it comes to education, and all efforts will be made to make sure the reorganization does not affect the students.  Courses will continue as planned and all students accepted to a particular programme can rest assured that they will be able to continue and complete their programmes as planned. 

Link to RQ20: RQ20 – Lund University's Research Quality Evaluation Project 2020