Interacting Quantum Matter: Theoretical and Computational Challenges

15:15  Inaugural lecture Prof. A. Läuchli
15:55  Inaugural lecture Prof. Ch. Rüegg

Strongly interacting quantum many body systems play an important role in a number of fields of modern physics, such as condensed matter physics or quantum simulators. In this lecture I will show a few examples of our work at the interface of condensed matter theory, statistical physics, quantum field theory, quantum information and computational physics in addressing questions related to quantum spin liquids, quantum thermalization and the characterization of quantum critical points. 

Bio
Andreas Läuchli studied theoretical and computational physics at ETH Zürich and obtained his PhD in 2003 at the same institution. After a postdoctoral stay in Toulouse, he was a project leader and lecturer at IRRMA and EPFL from 2004 to 2008. From 2008 to 2011 he lead a research group in the condensed matter division of the MPI PKS in Dresden. In 2011 he was appointed professor of theoretical physics at the University of Innsbruck, where he also lead the institute for theoretical physics from 2013 to 2017. Since fall 2021 he heads the laboratory for theoretical and computational physics at the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) in Villigen and is a full professor of physics at EPFL. 

His research interests covers emergent phenomena in strongly interacting quantum many body systems, ranging from condensed matter systems, to quantum simulators and strongly coupled quantum field theories. He uses sophisticated numerical algorithms and theoretical concepts to reveal new phases of quantum matter, to study the non-equilibrium dynamics of interacting quantum systems and explores how traces of quantum field theories manifest in numerical simulations especially in spectra of various kinds. He also enjoys interacting with experimental groups in condensed matter physics and beyond.