Martin Beyer is a researcher at the Institute for Optics and Quantum Electronics, Friedrich Schiller University Jena. His work aligns with the institute's focus areas, including relativistic laser plasma interactions and quantum field theory. Contact information includes email m.beyer@uni-jena.de and phone number +49 3641 947-676. Research interests span atomic physics, X-ray science, and high-intensity laser applications. Active in projects related to quantum logic spectroscopy and soft X-ray spectroscopy/microscopy.
Mark Aleksiejuk is a researcher at the Helmholtz-Institut Jena, affiliated with the working groups focused on relativistic laser plasma theory, quantum field theory at highest intensities, and high-intensity laser physics. His work intersects atomic physics with highly charged ions and X-ray spectroscopy. Contact: Email: M.Aleksiejuk@hi-jena.gsi.de Room: D210 Location: Helmholtzweg 4, 07743 Jena Research areas include soft X-ray spectroscopy, high-purity X-ray polarimetry, and quantum logic spectroscopy of highly-charged heavy ions. He operates within the Helmholtz Institute's experimental facilities, such as the POLARIS and JETI lasers, and collaborates with institutions like GSI, DESY, and FAIR.
Max Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse SpectroscopyGermany
Prof. Stefan Eisebitt is a Director at the Max-Born-Institut für Nichtlineare Optik und Kurzzeitspektroskopie and holds a Professorship in Experimental Physics at the Technische Universität Berlin. His research focuses on ultrafast magnetization dynamics, nanoscale structure analysis, and novel imaging techniques using coherent XUV/X-ray spectroscopy. He leads the Transient Electronic Structure and Nanoscience group and is involved in cutting-edge projects involving femtosecond laser-driven X-ray sources and spintronic materials. Education and Career: He obtained his Diplom (1992) and Ph.D. (1996) from Cologne University, followed by postdoctoral research at the University of British Columbia and Forschungszentrum Jülich. He became a Privatdozent at Humboldt-Universität Berlin (2005) and held professorships at TU Berlin (2008–2015) and Lund University (2012–2015) before his current role since 2015. He leads the Functional Nanomaterials joint research group between Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin and TU Berlin. Research Interests: His work spans transient electronic structure, ultrafast optical manipulation of magnetization, nanoscale material characterization, and advanced coherent imaging methods. Key techniques include XUV/X-ray spectroscopy, laser-driven plasma sources, and femtosecond time-resolved studies. Professional Roles: He chairs the Physikalische Gesellschaft zu Berlin and the Elettra Scientific Advisory Council. He has held leadership roles in the European XFEL Scientific Advisory Committee and the Komitee für Forschung mit Synchrotronstrahlung (KFS). His lab develops state-of-the-art setups for ultrafast X-ray scattering and holography.
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.
Prof. Dieter H.H. Hoffmann is a distinguished academic in the Department of Physics , specializing in high-energy physics, dark matter detection, and plasma-based fusion research. His work focuses on particle astrophysics, including axion searches via helioscopes like CAST, nuclear fusion mechanisms (particularly proton-boron reactions), and plasma dynamics in extreme conditions. He collaborates on major projects such as the Cherenkov Telescope Array (CTA) for gamma-ray astronomy and heavy-ion beam experiments at facilities like FAIR. Research interests include: Dark matter axion detection and theoretical modeling Proton-boron fusion as an alternative energy pathway Plasma interactions in high-intensity laser and beam experiments Stopping power and beam transport in dense matter High-energy-density physics for inertial confinement fusion Recent work highlights advancements in: CAST experiment sensitivity improvements for solar axions Experimental validation of proton-boron fusion yields in dense plasmas Development of NectarCAM cameras for CTA's gamma-ray detection Simulation of proton beam dynamics in solid-state materials His contributions bridge fundamental physics with applied research in energy and detector technology, with active involvement in international collaborations like CTA and FAIR experiments.
Christoph H. Keitel is a Professor and Director at the Max Planck Institute for Nuclear Physics, with an honorary professorship at Heidelberg University. His research spans quantum electrodynamics, laser-matter interactions, and precision atomic physics. He leads investigations into radiation reaction, particle acceleration, and fundamental symmetries using high-intensity lasers and atomic spectroscopy. Keitel has received the Willis E. Lamb Award and Gustav Hertz Prize for pioneering contributions to laser science and quantum optics. His group develops advanced theoretical frameworks for testing QED and particle physics through high-precision experiments.
Prof. Dr. Hartmut Ruhl is a Professor (chair) at the Faculty of Physics of Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU Munich), with his office located at Theresienstrasse 37, Room A237 in Munich, Germany. He leads an active research group focused on high field physics and quantum electrodynamics, particularly investigating radiation reaction, vacuum effects, and strong field phenomena. Prof. Ruhl's research spans several cutting-edge areas of theoretical and computational physics. His primary interests include high field physics, quantum electrodynamics in strong fields, radiation reaction effects, vacuum polarization phenomena, and computational methods for solving complex physical systems. He has made significant contributions to understanding the Heisenberg-Euler effective Lagrangian, vacuum high harmonic generation, and the Trident process for electron-positron pair production. His work combines theoretical developments with advanced numerical simulations to explore physics in extreme electromagnetic field conditions. Prof. Ruhl's publication record demonstrates consistent focus on nonlinear quantum electrodynamics in strong fields. His work spans theoretical developments in radiation reaction, numerical methods for solving Heisenberg-Euler equations, and investigations of vacuum effects like high harmonic generation and pair production. A recurring theme is the exploration of quantum vacuum nonlinearities and their observable consequences in high-intensity laser-matter interactions. Prof. Ruhl actively supervises PhD students in high field physics, requiring profound knowledge in quantum transport theory and advanced programming. His group seeks candidates who have completed his courses in Relativistic Quantum Theory and Advanced Programming. He co-organizes the seminar 'Selected Topics in Computational Physics' with Prof. A. Scrinzi, serving as a platform for master's and PhD students interested in computational plasma physics. Prof. Ruhl is associated with the Advanced Simulation Center (ASC) at LMU Munich, as indicated by room locations in his teaching schedule. He collaborates closely with Prof. A. Scrinzi on computational physics topics and is involved with the PSC (Plasma Simulation Code) project. His research group develops specialized numerical solvers for nonlinear wave equations based on the Heisenberg-Euler effective Lagrangian, contributing to the understanding of quantum vacuum effects in extreme field conditions.
Zoltán Harman is a Leading Scientist at the Max Planck Institute for Nuclear Physics (MPIK) in Heidelberg, Germany, and is affiliated with Heidelberg University. He conducts cutting-edge research in atomic physics, quantum electrodynamics, and precision measurements, particularly using highly charged ions and Penning trap techniques. He holds a habilitation in physics from Heidelberg University and regularly lectures there on advanced topics such as quantum electrodynamics and theoretical physics. Research Interests: Quantum Electrodynamics (QED) in strong fields Precision spectroscopy of highly charged ions g-factor measurements and tests of fundamental physics Development of atomic clocks using highly charged ions Determination of fundamental constants (e.g., electron mass, fine-structure constant) Searches for new physics beyond the Standard Model, including fifth forces Neutrino mass determination via Penning trap measurements His recent publications (2024–2025) focus on high-precision g-factor measurements in ions like tin and beryllium, two-loop QED calculations, King plot analyses for new boson searches, and neutrino mass studies. These works appear in top journals such as Nature , Physical Review Letters , and Science , reflecting his leadership in precision atomic physics. Scientific Awards and Grants: Postdoctoral scholarship from the Max Planck Society (2005–2007) EMMI Visiting Professor Scholarship (2012, 2013) Erasmus student scholarship (1999–2000) Primary investigator of the ISOQUANT Collaborative Research Centre (SFB1225) Teaching and Advising: Harman has been a regular lecturer at Heidelberg University since 2008, teaching courses in quantum electrodynamics, theoretical physics, and experimental physics. He co-organizes advanced lecture series and supervises student research projects, including poster sessions and talks. He is also a lecturer in the International Max Planck Research School on Quantum Dynamics. Research Group and Collaborations: Harman is a key member of the quantum dynamics group at MPIK, led by Prof. Christoph H. Keitel. His work involves close collaboration with experimental teams at MPIK, GSI, and Heidelberg University, combining theoretical and experimental efforts in precision physics. He is actively involved in major projects such as PENTATRAP and ALPHATRAP, which aim to push the limits of atomic and nuclear measurements.
Max Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse SpectroscopyGermany
Prof. Olga Smirnova is a leading researcher at the Max Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy, heading the Strongfield Theory Group. Her work focuses on ultrafast phenomena, attosecond science, and quantum control in strong laser fields. She specializes in chiral dynamics, valleytronics, and high-harmonic generation, with contributions to understanding spin polarization and enantiosensitivity in molecular systems. Research interests include manipulating light-matter interactions at attosecond timescales, exploring topological photonics, and developing novel spectroscopic techniques like TACOS (Terahertz-Assisted Chiro-Optical Spectroscopy). Her theoretical advancements bridge fundamental physics and applications in chiral discrimination, ultrafast imaging, and valleytronics in 2D materials. Recent studies highlight discoveries such as multi-THz quantum beats in superfluorescent emission and polarization-shaped control of valley polarization in MoS 2 . Her work frequently interfaces with experimental groups, driving advancements in free-electron laser technologies and attosecond interferometry. Awards: Ahmed Zewail Award in Ultrafast Science and Technology (2020) Collaborations: Extensive international partnerships with institutions like DESY, Lund University, and the University of Rostock. Labs/Groups: Strongfield Theory Group at MBI, focusing on theoretical and computational modeling of ultrafast processes in intense laser fields.
Matteo Tamburini is a Group Leader at the Max Planck Institute for Nuclear Physics (MPIK) in Heidelberg, leading the Extreme Field Quantum Plasma Dynamics and Relativistic Laboratory Astrophysics group. He also serves as a Lecturer at the International Max Planck Research School in Quantum Dynamics (IMPRS-QD). His academic journey includes a PhD in Physics from the University of Pisa, Italy, and postdoctoral research at MPIK. Research Interests: Tamburini specializes in quantum plasma dynamics, strong-field quantum electrodynamics (QED), and high-intensity laser-plasma interactions. He focuses on topics such as radiation reaction effects, relativistic astrophysical simulations, and the generation of ultra-high energy particles and gamma-ray bursts. His work bridges theoretical modeling with experimental validation at facilities like FACET-II (SLAC), Gemini (UK), and DESY. Experimental Contributions: Key projects include devising experiments to probe quantum radiation reaction (E-332, E-320, E-305), developing the SFQEDtoolkit for QED simulations, and advancing polarized laser-wakefield acceleration. His research often involves close collaboration with international teams and leverages cutting-edge facilities like the Gemini laser and FACET-II. Awards & Service: Tamburini is recognized as an IOP trusted reviewer for peer review excellence. He organizes the Seminar Theoretical Quantum Dynamics and contributes to reviewing for journals like Physical Review Letters and Nature Physics. He has secured significant funding, including a 4-year scholarship for student Michael Quin. Lab/Teams: Leads the Extreme Field Group at MPIK, focusing on advancing understanding of quantum plasma phenomena and relativistic astrophysical processes through theoretical and computational approaches.
Yuyang Wang is a researcher at the Institute of Optics and Quantum Electronics within Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Germany. Their work is affiliated with the Helmholtz Institute Jena and involves experimental facilities such as the POLARIS Laser and ESR Storage Ring. They contribute to interdisciplinary research in advanced photon science, focusing on relativistic and quantum phenomena. Research Areas: Relativistic Laser Physics, Quantum Field Theory, Atomic Physics with X-rays, Soft X-ray Spectroscopy, High Photon Flux Sources (EUV to mid-IR). Contact: Email yuyang.wang@uni-jena.de | Room 208 | Phone +49 3641 947-904.
Dr. Hans-Peter Schlenvoigt is a researcher at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), working in the Department of Laser Particle Acceleration. His research focuses on experimental and theoretical aspects of high-intensity laser-matter interactions, with emphasis on advancing laser-driven particle acceleration techniques. Research Interests: Dr. Schlenvoigt's work spans laser-plasma physics, laser-driven ion acceleration, X-ray polarimetry, and strong-field quantum electrodynamics. Key themes include: Development of diagnostic methods for relativistic plasmas Optimization of laser-driven proton/ion sources Applications in radiobiology and fundamental physics Advanced laser technologies for extreme conditions Publication Trends: His recent articles (2023-2025) demonstrate a focus on laser-driven particle acceleration mechanisms, plasma diagnostics using X-ray techniques, and quantum electrodynamics in strong fields. The research integrates experimental work at major facilities like J-KAREN-P and theoretical modeling, with growing emphasis on medical applications of laser-accelerated particles. Facilities and Tools: He utilizes HZDR's DRACO-PW laser system and collaborates on projects at international facilities including the Helmholtz International Beamline for Extreme Fields (HIBEF).
Prof. Markus Roth is a leading plasma physicist at the Technische Universität Darmstadt , heading the Laser and Plasma Physics Group within the Department of Physics . His research focuses on experimental investigations of laser-plasma interactions, particularly in developing novel radiation sources and advancing inertial fusion technologies. Research Interests : Energy loss mechanisms in laser-generated plasmas Laser ion acceleration (TNSA, BOA, and relativistic transparency) Laser-driven neutron sources for radiography Warm dense matter generation and diagnostics Target development for high-energy experiments Integration of laser-accelerated ions into accelerators Scientific Awards : APS Fellow (2013) Defense Physics Award of Excellence (2014) Rosen Scholar Award (2012, 2016) Collaborations : Active in international projects including FAIR, ELI-NP, and LIGHT collaboration. His group develops detectors for laser-driven neutron sources and contributes to fusion research.
Christoph Helmut Keitel is an honorary professor at Heidelberg University's Faculty of Physics and Astronomy and serves as Director at the Max Planck Institute for Nuclear Physics (MPIK) in Heidelberg, Germany. His research spans quantum electrodynamics, strong-field laser physics, atomic and nuclear physics, with a focus on precision measurements and quantum dynamics. Director at Max Planck Institute for Nuclear Physics (2004-present) Managing Director of MPIK (2006-2008, 2024-present) Founding Speaker of the International Max Planck Research School for Quantum Dynamics (2005-present) Advisory Board member of ELI (Extreme Light Infrastructure) (2008-present) Keitel's research interests focus on the interaction of intense laser fields with matter, quantum electrodynamics in strong fields, precision measurements of fundamental constants, and nuclear physics. His work bridges theoretical and experimental physics, developing advanced theoretical frameworks to interpret cutting-edge experiments in strong-field physics. His research group investigates phenomena such as radiation reaction, quantum tunneling in strong fields, electron-positron pair creation, and precision spectroscopy of highly charged ions. He has made significant contributions to understanding the dynamics of particles in extreme electromagnetic fields and developing novel methods for precision measurements that test the limits of quantum electrodynamics and search for physics beyond the Standard Model. His scientific work has been recognized with numerous awards including the Willis E. Lamb Award for Laser Science and Quantum Optics (2023), APS "Outstanding Referee" Award (2008), Fellowship in the Optical Society of America (2006), and the Gustav Hertz Prize of the German Physical Society (2003). Keitel has supervised numerous doctoral students through the International Max Planck Research School for Quantum Dynamics and has been involved in major collaborative research projects including the SFB 1227 DQ-mat. His research has practical applications in developing novel light sources, precision measurement techniques, and advancing our understanding of fundamental physical processes that could lead to breakthroughs in quantum technologies.
Yong-Siang Hsu is affiliated with the Helmholtz Institute Jena , a collaborative institution involving GSI, FAIR, and Friedrich Schiller University (FSU) Jena. His research focuses on advanced photon science, particularly in relativistic laser-plasma interactions, quantum field theory, and atomic physics with highly charged ions. Key research areas include: Relativistic Laser Plasma Theory Quantum Field Theory at highest intensities High Intensity Laser Physics Soft X-ray spectroscopy and microscopy Quantum logic spectroscopy of highly-charged heavy ions Contact: y.hsu@hi-jena.gsi.de
