Dieter Horns

Prof. Dr. Dieter Horns is a Professor of Experimental Physics at the University of Hamburg, affiliated with the Institute of Experimental Physics within the Faculty of Mathematics, Computer Science and Natural Sciences. He leads the Astroparticle Physics working group and is a key member of the Quantum Universe Cluster of Excellence. His leadership roles include managing director of the Institute, director of the Quantum Universe Research School, and coordinator of the HAFUN research building.

• University: University of Hamburg
• School: Faculty of Mathematics, Computer Science and Natural Sciences
• Department: Department of Physics
• Institute: Institute of Experimental Physics
• Position: Professor of Astroparticle Physics
• Research Group: Horns Working Group on Astroparticle Physics

Dieter Horns' research is centered on high-energy astrophysics and astroparticle physics, with a focus on very high-energy (keV–TeV) gamma-ray sources, dark matter searches (particularly low-mass WISPs and axion-like particles), and the development of experimental techniques for ground-based air Cherenkov telescopes such as H.E.S.S. and CTA. His work bridges observational astrophysics, particle phenomenology, and instrumentation.

His recent publications (2024–2025) demonstrate a strong emphasis on gamma-ray observations of pulsars (Geminga, Crab), novae (RS Oph), colliding-wind binaries (Eta Carinae), and AGN (M87), using cutting-edge telescopes like LST-1 and H.E.S.S. These studies involve spectral analysis, emission modeling, and instrumental development. A parallel research thread explores dark matter through both indirect detection (Fermi-LAT sources, cosmic background) and theoretical phenomenology (ALP constraints, decaying DM).

Notable scientific achievements include leadership in major collaborations (H.E.S.S., CTA, TAIGA), development of innovative detection techniques, and high-impact publications with over 51,900 citations and an h-index of 116. He has supervised 32 B.Sc., 44 M.Sc., 22 Ph.D. students, and 13 postdocs.

• Supervised 32 B.Sc. theses
• Supervised 44 M.Sc. theses
• Supervised 22 Ph.D. students
• Trained 13 postdoctoral researchers

Prof. Horns leads a vibrant research group actively involved in instrumentation (e.g., BRASS experiment), data analysis, and theoretical modeling. The group is deeply embedded in the Quantum Universe Cluster of Excellence and contributes to the future of gamma-ray astronomy through the Cherenkov Telescope Array (CTA) and related initiatives.