Sonja Barkhofen

PD Dr. Sonja Barkhofen is a Research Professor at the University of Paderborn’s Institute for Photonic Quantum Systems (PhoQS). She holds a Privatdozentin title, reflecting her advanced academic standing. Her primary affiliation is the Institute for Photonic Quantum Systems, where she leads research in quantum photonics and related fields.

Her research focuses on topological quantum systems, quantum walks, entanglement generation, and photonic quantum technologies. Her work bridges theoretical concepts like zeta function analysis in hyperbolic systems with experimental realizations in quantum optics. Recent breakthroughs include scalable multiphoton entanglement generation and experimental observation of topological quantum criticality.

Teaching activities include the course Quantenelektronik (Quantum Electronics), emphasizing practical applications of quantum principles in photonics. Collaborators such as C. Silberhorn, J. Sperling, and A. Altland frequently appear in her publications, reflecting strong interdisciplinary partnerships.

Her publications (2021–2024) span Physical Review Research, Communications in Mathematical Physics, and Physik in unserer Zeit. While no awards are explicitly listed, her prolific output and high-impact journals suggest recognition in her field. Active labs/groups include the Hybrid Quantum Photonic Devices group and involvement in academic governance as an Academic Councillor.