Quantum Information Theory

The "Quantum Information Theory" group works at the interface of Quantum Information Science, Condensed Matter, Nonequilibrium Statistical Mechanics and Quantum Control to advance emergent Quantum Technologies, covering Quantum Simulations, Quantum Computing and Algorithms, Quantum Sensing and Quantum Thermodynamics.

Group Leader: Prof. Adolfo del Campo

Quantum Dynamics and Control

The QDC group investigates dynamical properties of open quantum systems and develops protocols for their control. We combine analytical and numerical tools, mainly from quantum optics and stochastic analysis, to characterise processes such as decoherence, entanglement, and excitation transfer. The systems of interests are diverse and range from single toy models to chaotic systems and natural molecular aggregates.

Group Leader: Dr. Aurelia Chenu

Theoretical Chemical Physics

The TCP group develops novel methodologies bringing the quantum-mechanical level of insight to large and complex systems by combining first-principles quantum methods, machine learning, coarse-grained statistical approaches, as well as developing novel mathematical and computational techniques.

Group Leader: Prof. Alexandre Tkatchenko

Theory of Mesoscopic Quantum Systems

The TMQS group investigates quantum phenomena at mesoscopic scales, with a particular focus on nonequilibrium transport, topological  materials and low-dimensional systems, using both analytical and numerical methods.

Group Leader: Prof. Thomas Schmidt

Complex Systems and Statistical Mechanics

The CSSM group develops statistical methods to describe the dynamics and thermodynamics of complex systems operating far-from-equilibrium. These include open quantum systems, biochemical reaction networks and electrical circuits. We are particularly interested in characterizing the trade-offs between energetic dissipation, speed, precision and accuracy of processes such as energy conversion, information processing and computation.  

Group Leader: Prof. Massimiliano Esposito

Ultrafast Condensed Matter Physics

The Ultrafast Condensed Matter Physics (UCMP) aims at the investigation of fundamental phenomena occurring in matter at ultrashort  timescale. For this reason, we develop innovative ultrafast systems and techniques with the ultimate goal to understand and control how light  interacts with matter to unveil the microscopic origin of the properties of materials that are of high technological interest.

Group Leader: Prof. Daniele Brida

Laboratory for Photovoltaics

At the laboratory for photovoltaics (LPV) we investigate the exact mechanisms that reduce the efficiency of real solar cells compared to ideal devices. We prepare semiconductor materials in a controlled way and employ optoelectronic measurements, like photoluminescence to understand e.g. the absorption of light and the losses of photogenerated electrons.  A focus is on the next generation solar cells, based on thin film tandem devices. We contribute to improving the efficiency of thin film solar cells.

Group Leader: Prof. Susanne Siebentritt

Laboratory for Energy Materials

The Laboratory for Energy Materials studies the physical and chemical reactions occurring during semiconductor synthesis to better understand how to manipulate the resulting materials’ opto-electrical properties. We are interested in reducing environmental impact, so we investigate semiconductors made from earth abundant non toxic elements, and we research novel low energy synthesis methods. We also research small and semi-transparent solar cell devices for high power conversion efficiency and building integrated applications.

Group Leader: Prof. Phillip Dale