Tilman Esslinger

Prof. Dr. Tilman Esslinger is a Full Professor at the Department of Physics, ETH Zürich. He serves as Deputy Head of the Institute for Quantum Electronics and has held leadership roles including Head of the Department of Physics (2013-2015) and Vice Director of the National Centre of Competence in Research Quantum Science and Technology (2011-2022). His research focuses on quantum many-body physics, matter-light interactions, and quantum simulation using ultracold atoms in optical lattices.

• Institutions: ETH Zürich (Department of Physics, Institute for Quantum Electronics)
• Roles: Full Professor, Deputy Head of Institute, Former Head of Department

Research Interests: Esslinger pioneers experimental studies of quantum phase transitions, topological materials, and quantum computing. His work on optical lattice-based quantum simulators has revealed novel phenomena like fermionic Mott insulators, quantum magnetism, and artificial graphene. Recent efforts include realizing dissipative quantum systems, topological pumps, and exploring thermoelectric effects in quantum gases.

Scientific Awards:

• Fellow of the American Physical Society
• Honorary Doctorate from Heriot-Watt University
• Senior BEC Award (shared)
• Philip-Morris Research Prize
• ERC Advanced Grants (2)
• SNF Advanced Grant

Contributions: Esslinger has published over 140 papers (13 in Nature, 10 in Science). His lab has trained numerous researchers who now hold professorships globally. He has held visiting positions at institutions like JILA, Harvard University, and the University of Innsbruck.