Hanover physicist receives millions in funding for quantum research!

Hanover physicist receives millions in funding for quantum research!

Dr. Henrik Wilming, a postdoctoral researcher at the Institute for Theoretical Physics at Leibniz University Hannover, has received a prestigious ERC Starting Grant from the European Union. This grant enables him to build his own research team over a period of five years and to work intensively on the topic of quantum mechanical entanglement, a central element in quantum mechanics. The title of his project is “Large-Scale Structure of Entanglement.”

In his research work, Dr. Wilming to explore open questions surrounding quantum mechanics, 100 years after the field was discovered. His work aims to combine basic research with practical applications in areas such as quantum computers and quantum simulators. The funding includes up to 1.5 million euros and primarily supports young scientists who are planning extraordinary research projects.

Research on quantum entanglement

Entanglement is a phenomenon that describes the strong correlation between quantum objects, which is explained by the laws of quantum theory. Their importance for future technologies, particularly quantum computing and quantum cryptography, cannot be overstated. Dr. Wilming's previous research has already revealed new forms of entanglement in systems with many particles, making these approaches particularly intriguing.

As part of his project, he will investigate collective entanglement properties and combine the methods of quantum information theory with condensed matter physics and mathematical techniques. The intended research promises to provide significant insights for the understanding of complex quantum systems, which are of crucial relevance in modern quantum technology applications.

Support from the EU

Similarly, Dr. Guillaume Salomon, who has been working at the Institute for Laser Physics at the University of Hamburg since August 1, 2020, received an ERC Starting Grant, also with funding of around 1.5 million euros. His research focuses on fundamental aspects of quantum many-body physics and examines how these aspects can contribute to the development of future quantum technologies. He plans to develop a platform for quantum simulation and quantum computation that converts ultracold atoms into highly excited Rydberg states.

The Rydberg atoms are very sensitive to electric and magnetic fields and could make it possible to test different phases of matter. Salomon's project is entitled “FLATBANDS, Exploring strong correlations in flat bands” and complements the goals of the Cluster of Excellence CUI: Advanced Imaging of Matter pursued by the University of Hamburg.

Both projects underline the objective of the ERC Starting Grants, which is to support outstanding young scientists in basic research. Applications will be assessed on the basis of excellence and scientists will be required to demonstrate an excellent academic record in order to be considered for such funding.

The ERC Grants are aimed at early career scientists with 2-7 years of post-PhD experience. Applications can be submitted in any research area and on a bottom-up basis. Scientists from different countries can be hired as team members in their projects.

Dr. Salomon received his doctorate from the Institut d’Optique at the University of Paris Saclay and conducted postdoctoral research at the Max Planck Institute for Quantum Optics in Munich. His expertise in the experimental study of highly correlated fermionic quantum systems will be crucial to mastering the challenges in quantum research. The support from the European Research Council as part of the “Horizon 2020 research and innovation program” is of immense value.

These two outstanding projects are examples of international excellence in physics research and reinforce the important role of ERC grants in supporting innovative scientific approaches in the field of quantum mechanics.