Ernst Maria Rasel

Ernst Maria Rasel serves as Chair Professor for Experimental Physics at Leibniz University Hannover's Faculty of Mathematics and Physics, leading the Institute of Quantum Optics since 2008. His research bridges atomic physics, quantum optics, and precision measurement technologies with significant contributions to fundamental physics.

His research focuses on quantum sensor development, matter-wave interferometry, and ultracold quantum systems. Key areas include Bose-Einstein condensation, laser cooling techniques, optical clocks, and quantum sensors for rotation/acceleration measurements. His work extends to Earth observation applications and microgravity experiments, notably through leadership in the STE-QUEST atom interferometer project and NASA-DLR BECCAL initiative.

Rasel's publications include 1 Nature, 1 Science, 1 Science Advances, 14 Physical Review Letters, and 8 New Journal of Physics papers, totaling over 100 refereed journal articles with 2,633 citations (h-index: 29). His research demonstrates consistent focus on quantum sensing applications and fundamental physics tests.

Scientific awards:

• Willis E. Lamb Award for Laser Physics and Quantum Optics (2018)
• Excellence Cluster Professorship for QUEST (2008)
• W3 professorship offer in quantum metrology (Ulm, 2008)
• DFG and EU Research Fellowships (1996-1998)

Rasel has mentored 29 PhD students, 49 Master's, and 47 Bachelor students to completion, with 21 postdocs working under his guidance. He coordinates European/national projects in quantum sensing and serves on the Fundamental Physics Roadmap Advisory Team and STE-QUEST Science Team. His research includes the CUA consortium for ISS cold atom research and HYPER project development.

He leads the Quantum Sensing working group at IQO, focusing on atom interferometry, quantum gas mixtures, and precision measurement systems for both fundamental research and practical applications in geodesy and navigation.