Research
Following an overview of the different research groups at our institute.
The Bio and Nano Physics Group led by Thomas Franosch addresses a broad range of fundamental questions in biological and nano physics using a combination of theoretical and computational tools.
Our research encompasses complex transport phenomena in crowded environments, the non-equilibrium physics of self-propelled particles, the glass transition of strongly confined liquids, thermophoresis of colloidal particles, and the elastic and dynamic properties of polymers.
For more information please visit: www.uibk.ac.at/th-physik/bio_nano
Contact
Head of the Research Group
Univ.-Prof. Dr. Thomas Franosch
Tel. +43 512 507-52267
thomas.franosch@uibk.ac.at
Administrative Assistant
Nicole Jorda
Tel. +43 512 507-52208
nicole.jorda@uibk.ac.at
Quantum Condensed Matter Theory
In the area of quantum condensed matter, there are two research groups at our institute concentrating on different questions and priorities:
Quantum Condensed Matter Theory / Computational Physics
This research group is interested in the theoretical and computational exploration of correlated quantum matter in condensed matter and AMO systems.
We strive to understand novel phases of matter, quantum critical phenomena and quantum systems out of equilibrium. Our research builds on a blend of concepts and ideas from condensed matter theory, statistical mechanics, quantum field theory and quantum information. We also develop and implement innovative computational algorithms in order to perform large-scale computer simulations on high-performance computers.
For more information please visit: www.uibk.ac.at/th-physik/laeuchli-lab/
Contact
Former Head of the Research Group
Univ.-Prof. Dr. Andreas Läuchli
Administration
Theoretical-Physics@uibk.ac.at
Quantum Condensed Matter: From Field theory to Machine Learning
The research group of Mathias Scheurer deals with the theoretical description of the emergent collective phenomena that arise in interacting condensed matter systems as a result of competing interactions, disorder, and topology.
More specifically, we are interested in unconventional and topological superconductivity, complex phase diagrams, the impact of impurities in crystals, spin-orbit coupling, magnetism, spin liquids and topological order, moiré superlattice systems, and non-Hermitian many-body physics. To address these problems, we use a combination of analytical and numerical techniques of quantum field theory and statistical mechanics. Furthermore, we explore the potential of machine-learning to address problems of many-body physics.
For more information please visit: www.uibk.ac.at/th-physik/mscheurer/
Contact
Head of the Research Group
Ass.-Prof. Dr. Mathias S. Scheurer
Tel. +43 512 507-52224
mathias.scheurer@uibk.ac.at
Administrative Assistant
Birgit Laimer
Tel. +43 512 507-52203
birgit.laimer@uibk.ac.at
Quantum Information
In the area of quantum information, there are four research groups at our institute concentrating on different questions and priorities:
Quantum Information and Computation
The research group of Hans J. Briegel investigates models for quantum information processing and fundamental aspects of quantum information theory.
One focus of our research is the theory of measurement-based quantum computation, which has resulted in a new and more thorough understanding of many-body entanglement as resource, and applications in quantum communication, quantum error correction, and quantum algorithms.
In addition, we work on quantum phenomena in bio-molecular systems, relativistic systems, and study the role of quantum mechanics for autonomous and learning systems. Some of the work is interdisciplinary and addresses questions in the fields of artificial intelligence and the philosophy of action.
Fore more information please visit: www.uibk.ac.at/th-physik/qic-group/
Contact
Head of the Research Group
Univ.-Prof. Dr. Hans J. Briegel
Tel. +43 512 507-52202
hans.briegel@uibk.ac.at
Administrative Assistant
Jade Meysami-Hörtnagl
Tel. +43 512 507-52207
jade.meysami-hoertnagl@uibk.ac.at
Entanglement Theory & Quantum Information Theory
The main research interests of Barbara Kraus' group are fundamental problems within Quantum Information Theory. We focus on the development of new theoretical tools for the investigation of quantum many-body systems. One of our aims is to achieve a better understanding of multipartite entanglement. To this end, we are working on the qualification and quantification of multipartite entangled states.
Moreover, we are investigating the complexity properties of multipartite systems. We are working on new applications of multipartite entanglement and novel tools for the generation and manipulation of many-body states in specific experimental set-ups, such as trapped ions or atoms in optical lattices.
For more information visit the group page of Barbara Kraus
About quantum information and computation: www.uibk.ac.at/th-physik/qic-group/
Contact
Head of the Research Group
Univ.-Prof. Mag. Dr. Barbara Kraus
Tel. +43 512 507-52219
barbara.kraus@uibk.ac.at
Administrative Assistant
Nicole Jorda
Tel. +43 512 507-52208
nicole.jorda@uibk.ac.at
Teacher Education, Didactics of Quantum Physics & Quantum Information Processing
In the group of Wolfgang Dür we are studying properties and applications of large-scale quantum systems, e.g. for quantum metrology or the investigation of macroscopicity. We are interested in (measurement-based) quantum information processing in the context of long-distance quantum communication and quantum computation.
We are also dealing with questions in the context of physics didactics, where we develop a new approach to teach quantum mechanics at high school level based on quantum information theory. Using the simplest quantum systems (qubits) and catchy visualizations rather than complex mathematics, we try to make this central theory, together with modern applications such as quantum cryptography and quantum computation, accessible to high-school students. In the framework of the RECC physics west, we are also concerned with means to improve physics teacher education and training, as well as teaching in class.
More information (available in German) about the group of Wolfgang Dür: Lehramtsstudium
About quantum information and computation: www.uibk.ac.at/th-physik/qic-group/
Contact
Head of the Research Group
assoz. Prof. Mag. Dr. Wolfgang Dür
Tel. +43 512 507-52214
wolfgang.duer@uibk.ac.at
Administrative Assistant
Jade Meysami-Hörtnagl
Tel. +43 512 507-52207
jade.meysami-hoertnagl@uibk.ac.at
Gemma De les Coves’ research group works on various topics in theoretical physics, using elements from mathematical physics, quantum science, and theoretical computer science.
In particular, our team investigates fundamental aspects in the description of quantum many-body systems, which uses tools from mathematical physics and quantum information theory. Our team also works at intersection of theoretical physics and theoretical computer science, by investigating universality notions in both areas.
For more information please visit Mathematical Quantum Physics
About quantum information and computation: www.uibk.ac.at/th-physik/qic-group/
Contact
Head of the Research Group
Ass.-Prof. Dr. Gemma De les Coves
Tel. +43 512 507-52247
gemma.delascuevas@uibk.ac.at
Administrative Assistant
Jade Meysami-Hörtnagl
Tel. +43 512 507-52207
jade.meysami-hoertnagl@uibk.ac.at
Quantum Optics
In the area of quantum optics, there are five research groups at our institute concentrating on different questions and priorities:
The research group led by Hannes Pichler is interested in theoretical quantum optics, in the context of quantum many-body physics and quantum information processing science.
We strive to push the frontier of quantum technology by developing novel applications and quantum computing protocols for near-term quantum devices, focussing on quantum optical systems, such as Rydberg atom arrays, waveguide QED setups, and ultracold atoms. To achieve this goal, our research spans a wide spectrum, from microscopic modeling of the physics of specific quantum devices, to understanding their emergent quantum many-body phenomena. It builds on a variety of analytical and numerical techniques from quantum optics, quantum information, and condensed matter theory.
For more information on our group visit Many-Body Quantum Optics
Contact
Head of the Research Group
Univ.-Prof. Hannes Pichler, MSc PhD
Tel. +43 512 507-4736
hannes.pichler@uibk.ac.at
Administrative Assistant
Elke Wölflmaier (ad interim)
Tel. +43 512 507-4781
elke.woelflmaier@uibk.ac.at
Cavity Quantum Electrodynamics
The research group of Helmut Ritsch covers the fields of theoretical quantum optics and ultra cold gas physics with strong connections to quantum information theory, foundations of quantum physics and quantum theory of condensed matter systems. We focus on full quantum descriptions of matter and light waves, which are strongly coupled by momentum exchange.
Our aim is an effective theoretical description of real physical systems in a close connection with experiments, where genuine quantum phenomena as quantum phase transitions, entanglement and macroscopic super positions can be studied in a well-controlled and understood environment.
For more information: www.uibk.ac.at/th-physik/cqed
Contact
Head of the Research Group
Univ.-Prof. Mag. Dr. Helmut Ritsch
Tel. +43 512 507-52213
helmut.ritsch@uibk.ac.at
Administrative Assistant
Nicole Jorda
Tel. +43 512 507-52208
nicole.jorda@uibk.ac.at
Quantum Nanophysics, Optics and Information
The research group led by Oriol Romero-Isart studies topics in the fields of theoretical quantum optics and quantum nanophysics in the context of quantum science and technology. One of the main research interests is the observation of quantum phenomena with levitated micrometer-sized particles. Such systems push the boundary of quantum physics into uncharted territory, where the very validity of quantum physics and its interplay with gravity could be put to the test.
Achieving this goal requires a fundamental understanding of the internal physics of levitated nanoparticles as well as their interaction with electromagnetic fields. The group is also interested in nano-optics, including topics such as the tailoring of spatio-temporal features of the electromagnetic field, light-matter interaction at the nanoscale, and out-of-equilibrium quantum electrodynamics. The group proposes cutting-edge experiments and develops the underlying theory while closely collaborating with experimental groups.
For more information visit "Quantum Nanophysics, Optics and Information"
Contact
Head of the Research Group
Univ.-Prof. Dr. Oriol Romero-Isart
Tel. +43 512 507-4730
oriol.romero-isart@uibk.ac.at
Administrative Assistant
Judith Maier
Tel. +43 512 507-52206
judith.maier@uibk.ac.at
Theoretical Quantum Optics and Quantum Information
Wittgenstein awardee Peter Zoller’s research group studies topics in the fields of theoretical quantum optics and atomic physics as well as quantum information and condensed matter theory. The researchers mainly focus on theoretically describing real physical systems while closely collaborating with the experimental field and connecting the fields mentioned above in an interdisciplinary approach.
Their main research activities aim to realize, simulate and investigate novel quantum many-body systems consisting of atoms, ions or molecules or based on hybrid systems of optomechanical and solid state systems. In addition, the researchers are developing and searching for new tools and protocols for applications in the fields of quantum information and communication technology.
For more information visit "Theoretical Quantum Optics and Quantum Information"
Contact
Head of the Research Group
Univ.-Prof. Dr. Peter Zoller
Tel. +43 512 507-4780
peter.zoller@uibk.ac.at
Administrative Assistant
Elke Wölflmaier
Tel. +43 512 507-4781
elke.woelflmaier@uibk.ac.at
The research group of Wolfgang Lechner is dedicated to theoretical quantum physics with the aim to solve computationally challenging problems efficiently in near term quantum devices. The focus is research of coherent adiabatic and non-adiabatic processes, applications in machine learning and optimization problems as well as the investigation of implementations in different next generation qubit platforms.
For more information visit "Quantum Optimization"
Contact
Head of the Research Group
assoz. Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Lechner
Tel. +43 512 507-52232
wolfgang.lechner@uibk.ac.at
Administrative Assistant
Nicole Jorda
Tel. +43 512 507-52208
nicole.jorda@uibk.ac.at