Antonino Di Piazza

Antonino Di Piazza is a Professor of Physics at the Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Rochester, and a Distinguished Scientist at the Laboratory for Laser Energetics (LLE). He is also a Guest at the Theory Division of the Max-Planck-Institut für Kernphysik (MPI-K), where he previously served as a Group Leader from 2009 to 2023. His academic journey includes a PhD from the University of Trieste and habilitations in both Germany and Italy, establishing his expertise in theoretical physics.

His research interests lie at the forefront of quantum electrodynamics, particularly in strong and ultra-intense laser fields. He investigates fundamental phenomena such as radiation reaction, vacuum polarization, nonlinear Compton scattering, and Breit-Wheeler pair production. His work often bridges classical and quantum electrodynamics, exploring the limits of theoretical models like the local constant field approximation and developing new frameworks for tightly focused and flying-focus laser pulses.

The 15 most recent publications highlight a consistent focus on strong-field QED processes. Key themes include the behavior of particles in flying focus pulses, quantum vacuum effects like birefringence, and the analytical and numerical modeling of radiation processes. His work combines deep theoretical insight with relevance to cutting-edge experimental facilities, aiming to test QED in previously inaccessible regimes.

He has not received any scientific awards listed in the provided text.

Dr. Di Piazza is an active educator, currently teaching Quantum Mechanics II at the University of Rochester. He has a history of lecturing and tutoring at Heidelberg University and leading numerous doctoral schools and workshops on strong-field physics. He has secured research support through collaborations with major institutions like LLE, ELI-NP, and MPI-K, enabling his theoretical work to inform and be informed by high-power laser experiments. His extensive list of invited seminars and conference talks underscores his leadership in the field.

He leads the 'High-Energy Quantum Electrodynamics' research group, which is affiliated with the University of Rochester and the Max-Planck-Institut für Kernphysik. This group focuses on theoretical investigations of quantum vacuum and particle dynamics in extreme electromagnetic fields, contributing significantly to the global effort in high-field science.