Prof. Rob Timmermans is a Professor of Theoretical Physics and Vice-Dean for Education at the University of Groningen (UG). He is affiliated with the Faculty of Science and Engineering and the Precision Frontier — Van Swinderen Institute for Particle Physics and Gravity. His research focuses on theoretical particle physics, quantum mechanics, and precision measurements, particularly in electric dipole moment (EDM) searches using molecules like BaF. His work includes developing methods for molecular beam manipulation, phase-space analysis, and symmetry violation studies. He has contributed to collaborations such as NL-eEDM, advancing techniques for EDM detection and precision physics. Prof. Timmermans has received nominations for teaching awards, reflecting his commitment to education. Research highlights include studies on nucleon decay, antinucleon-nucleon interactions, and chiral effective field theory. His lab activities involve collaborations on laser-cooled molecules and trapping techniques. Prof. Timmermans’ articles often address fundamental physics questions, such as Lorentz violation in beta decay and parity violation in molecular systems. Awards: Nominated for Faculty Teaching Award 2014, Teacher of the Year 2014-15. Grants/Advising: Leads projects on EDM searches and particle physics, with active roles in international collaborations. Labs/Teams: Van Swinderen Institute, Precision Frontier group.
Prof. dr. ir. C.H. (Caspar) van der Wal is a Full Professor in Physics of Quantum Devices at the Faculty of Science and Engineering , University of Groningen. His research focuses on spintronic and quantum information functionalities using electron/nuclear spins in semiconductor devices, combining quantum optical and electron transport methods. PhD in Quantum Transport (Delft University of Technology, 2001) Postdoc in Quantum Optics at Harvard University (2001-2003) Scientific Director of Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials (2016-2022) Research keywords include Quantum Optics , Spintronics , Quantum Information , and Semiconductor Physics . Recent work explores 2D/3D semiconductor heterostructures , spin defects in SiC , and transition metal dichalcogenides . His scientific contributions have earned him the NWO-Vidi Grant (2005) , ERC Starting Grant (2011) , and multiple teaching awards. Publications since 2001 span topics like quantum superpositions in superconducting circuits, spin relaxation in quantum dots, and telecom-ready spin centers in silicon carbide. Grants : NWO-Vidi (2005), ERC Starting Grant (2011) Leadership : Scientific Director, Zernike Institute (2016-2022) Teaching : Teacher of the Year (2015), Education Prize (2012) Current affiliations include the Physics of Nanodevices group at the Zernike Institute for Advanced Materials. Collaborations span institutions like MIT, Harvard, and AMOLF.
Prof. dr. Steven Hoekstra is an Associate Professor of Atomic and Molecular Physics at the University of Groningen's Faculty of Science and Engineering, within the Van Swinderen Institute. His research focuses on precision measurements using cold molecules to explore fundamental physics, including Stark deceleration, laser cooling, and searches for physics beyond the Standard Model. He leads the NL-eEDM program at Nikhef, investigating the electron's electric dipole moment. Hoekstra is also involved in educational innovation, having received the Teacher of the Year award (2020) and a Senior Teacher Qualification (2023). He has supervised over 11 PhD theses and currently mentors 5 students. His work combines experimental techniques with theoretical insights, addressing questions like symmetry violations and quantum dynamics. Key projects include manipulating BaF molecules with electrostatic fields and exploring levitated nanoparticles as sensors. Hoekstra has secured major grants, including NWO VICI (2022) and VIDI (2013), and collaborates internationally on projects like the European Strategy for particle physics. Recent articles highlight advancements in molecular beam control, spin-precession methods for EDM searches, and opportunities in radioactive molecules. He actively participates in the Physics Olympiad Netherlands as chair, contributing to science outreach and education.
Ana Predojevic is a University Lecturer at the Department of Physics, Stockholm University, focusing on quantum photonics and quantum technologies. Her research explores quantum optics, quantum information, and the generation and characterization of entangled light states using semiconductor devices and nonlinear processes. She completed her Habilitation at the University of Innsbruck (2016) and earned a PhD in Quantum Optics from the Institute of Photonic Sciences (ICFO) in Barcelona (2009). Her research career includes prestigious fellowships such as the Elise Richter and Lise Meitner awards from the Austrian Science Fund. Her recent work emphasizes two-photon interference, phonon-induced dephasing, photon indistinguishability, and multipartite entanglement engineering, leveraging cavity quantum electrodynamics and deep learning techniques for quantum state analysis. She has contributed to advancements in micropillar cavity devices for efficient photon pair generation and polarization entanglement studies in quantum dot systems. Scientific Awards: Elise Richter Fellowship (2014) Kanada Prize, University of Innsbruck (2014) Nachwuchsförderung Young Researcher Award (2013) Lise Meitner Fellowship (2010) Generalitat de Catalunya PhD Fellowship (2005) Her current role involves developing quantum light sources for real-world applications in communication, sensing, and simulation, working with the Quantum Photonics group at Stockholm University.
Dr. Anna Baldycheva is a Senior Lecturer in Electronic Engineering at the University of Exeter, within the College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences. She leads the interdisciplinary STEMM Laboratory, focusing on applied R&D in smart materials, photonics, AI, and IoT. With prior research experience at MIT, Trinity College Dublin, and Tyndall National Institute, she has established herself as an internationally recognized innovator and entrepreneur in emerging technologies. PhD in Electronic and Electrical Engineering, Trinity College Dublin (2008–2012) BSc (Hons) in Physics, St. Petersburg State University (2003–2008) Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice, University of Exeter (2016–2017) Postgraduate Certificate in Technology Management, Smurfit Business School (2009–2010) Her research spans Nano-Engineering, Opto-Electronics, Photonics, AI, and IoT , with a strong emphasis on real-world applications. She pioneers work in fluid opto-electronics , graphene nanocoatings , and AI-driven emotion recognition and early cancer detection . Her lab develops smart composite materials for flexible electronics, e-textiles, and structural applications, integrating machine learning into healthcare, education, and communications systems. The recent publications highlight a strong trend toward applied interdisciplinary innovation , combining materials science with AI and photonics for healthcare diagnostics, energy-efficient computing, and educational technology. Her work frequently bridges fundamental physics with commercialization potential, as seen in spin-out technologies like GSurf and the Electronic-Nose for lung cancer detection. Fellow, Royal Microscopical Society (RMS) Fellow, Higher Education Academy (FHEA) Expert, Future and Emerging Technologies, European Commission Featured in Forbes and Forbes Tech Council Editor-in-Chief, InSTEMM Journal Associate Editor, Nature Scientific Reports and Discover Nano Trustee, Royal Microscopical Society Founder, STEMM Global Scientific Society Founder, It’s Her! Women in STEMM Initiative Dr. Baldycheva actively supervises PhD students and has secured industrial collaborations with organizations such as Qinetiq and Lumentum. She leads multiple outreach initiatives, including STEMM Junior for underprivileged children, and serves on the committee for the Jocelyn Bell Brunel PhD Scholarship. She has raised significant research funding through national and international grants, though specific grant names are not listed. She leads the STEMM Laboratory , a multidisciplinary research group with divisions in Smart Composite Materials, Machine Learning & AI, and Opto-Electronics & Photonics. The lab emphasizes industry collaboration and technology transfer, having produced a university spin-out (GSurf) and multiple media-highlighted innovations.
Matti Selg is an Associate Professor at the Institute of Physics within the Faculty of Science and Technology at the University of Tartu, Estonia. He has been actively teaching graduate courses in Quantum Mechanics, Analytical Mechanics, and Mathematical Physics since 2009, with increasing responsibility over the years. Currently, he oversees the entire teaching of three mandatory courses: Master's Course in Quantum Mechanics, Analytical Mechanics, and Theory of Complex Variables. Dr. Selg completed his education at the University of Tartu, earning a diploma in physics. He received his Doctor's Degree in 1981 from the University of Tartu with a dissertation titled "Relaxation and hot luminescence of self-trapped excitons in rare gas crystals," supervised by Vladimir Hižnjakov and Rein Kink. His additional qualification includes a PhD in solid state physics from the Institute of Physics of the Estonian Academy of Sciences. Professor Selg's research spans several interconnected areas of theoretical physics. His primary interests include quantum mechanics, particularly scattering theory and inverse problems, as evidenced by his numerous publications and textbooks on quantum scattering. He has made significant contributions to the understanding of reflectionless potentials and the Marchenko equation. More recently, he has focused on classical mechanics problems, particularly exploring Binet's equation and its connections to Newtonian and Einsteinian gravity theories, as well as revisiting historical problems like Galileo's swiftest descent problem. His work bridges mathematical physics with practical applications in molecular and solid-state physics. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a clear trajectory from quantum scattering theory toward classical mechanics and historical physics problems. While maintaining his expertise in quantum systems, particularly with hydrogen molecules and diatomic systems, he has expanded into historical and mathematical analyses of foundational physics concepts. His 2023-2025 publications show a particular focus on exact solutions to classical mechanics problems and their connections to modern gravitational theory. Dr. Selg has served in several administrative roles, including as a member of the Science Council of the Institute of Physics at the University of Tartu since 2001 and as a member of the Expert Commission for Exact Sciences of the Estonian Science Foundation (2003-2006). He has successfully led research projects funded by the Estonian Science Foundation, including studies on excimers in rare gases and their crystals. As an educator, Professor Selg has developed and taught advanced courses that integrate deep theoretical concepts with practical applications. His textbooks on quantum scattering theory demonstrate his commitment to making complex topics accessible to students. His recent work on the mathematical and physical perspectives of foundational problems suggests an evolving research program that connects historical scientific developments with contemporary theoretical challenges.
Giulia Semeghini is an Assistant Professor of Applied Physics at Harvard University's School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) . Her research focuses on experimental investigations of highly-entangled phases of matter and quantum information processing using programmable atom arrays. The Semeghini Lab, part of the Harvard Quantum Initiative (HQI) and the Center for Ultracold Atoms (CUA), explores intersections between condensed matter physics, high-energy physics, and quantum chemistry. Key achievements include assembling an ultra-high vacuum chamber for atom arrays in 2024 and relocating to the Goel building (HQI's new home) in April 2024. The lab actively recruits students and researchers for open positions at all levels. Research themes span quantum simulation, topological qubits, entanglement engineering, and scalable quantum architectures. Publications emphasize quantum gate implementations, hybrid atom systems, and variational Monte Carlo enhancements. No scientific awards are explicitly listed, but contributions to quantum hardware and algorithms are notable. The lab collaborates widely, aiming to bridge theory and experiment in quantum technologies.
Jose D'Incao is an Associate Research Professor at the University of Colorado Boulder and an Associate Fellow at JILA, a joint institute of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the University of Colorado. His research focuses on ultracold atomic systems, particularly the study of few-body correlations in atomic systems at ultracold temperatures, including Efimov physics and quantum dynamics in Bose-Einstein condensates. His work addresses fundamental challenges in atomic, molecular, and nuclear physics, with applications to quantum control and novel phases of matter. His research interests include the theoretical analysis of three-body recombination processes, universal few-body physics in spinor condensates, and the interplay between coherence and dissipation in ultracold gases. He has contributed to understanding the generalized Efimov effect in one and two dimensions and explored dynamics in systems such as hybrid ion-atom mixtures and optical lattices. Key projects include studies of Efimov states via Feshbach resonances, light-assisted collisions in optical tweezers, and precision measurements of many-body interactions in microgravity. His work often involves collaboration with experimental groups to bridge theoretical predictions with advancements in cold atom technologies. Jose D'Incao has received funding from the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Binational Science Foundation (BSF) for projects exploring universality in few-body systems and coherent control of Efimov physics. His research has implications for precision metrology, quantum simulation, and the development of novel quantum technologies.
Dr. Vineet Bharti is a Senior Research Associate at the School of Physics, University of Bristol, with a focus on quantum engineering and ultrafast dynamics. He holds a BSc, MSc, and PhD, and is affiliated with the Quantum Engineering Technologies research group. Education: BSc, MSc, PhD Current Role: Senior Research Associate Research Focus: Quantum physics, ultrafast atomic interactions His work explores Rydberg atoms, electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT), coherent population trapping (CPT), and quantum many-body systems. Recent research includes ultrafast dynamics in optical lattices and polarization-dependent spectroscopy. Dr. Bharti’s publications highlight advancements in quantum optics and atomic physics. For detailed information on his projects, grants, and future research, refer to his full description below. He can be contacted via vineet.bharti@bristol.ac.uk or viewed on ORCID .
Prof. Will Raven is a Professor of Physics at Smith College, where he joined the Department of Physics in 2013. He has mentored over 70 undergraduate researchers, published 8 peer-reviewed articles since 2020, and secured five NSF grants, including the NSF CAREER award. His research focuses on high-precision spectroscopy of neutral light atoms to test quantum electrodynamics (QED) and contribute to nuclear structure theory. Ph.D., University of Wisconsin–Madison B.S., Clarkson University Prof. Raven’s research group explores fundamental atomic physics, testing the Standard Model by measuring properties of beryllium, boron, nitrogen, and oxygen atoms. He designed a course, PHY242 Research in High Precision Spectroscopy, accessible to first-year students without calculus or physics prerequisites. His work combines experimental techniques with educational innovation, emphasizing accessible research opportunities. His recent publications (2025–2020) span precision spectroscopy of light atoms, hyperfine structure analysis, and laser stabilization methods. These articles represent fields such as Atomic Physics, Quantum Mechanics, and Optical Physics. American Physical Society 2025 Prize for a Faculty Member for Research in an Undergraduate Institution NSF CAREER award Smith College Student Government Association’s teaching award (twice) Prof. Raven has secured NSF grants for his research, including RUI grants for experimental projects and MRI grants for instrumentation. He leads the Raven Lab, an experimental group dedicated to undergraduate research training and fundamental atomic physics studies.
Carl E. Carlson is the Class of 1962 Professor of Physics at the College of William & Mary in Virginia. He holds a B.A. and Ph.D. from Columbia University (1965 and 1968, respectively). His research focuses on theoretical particle and nuclear physics, including the proton radius problem, low-energy tests of new physics, hadronic effects in atomic physics, and two-photon physics. Recent courses include Quantum Field Theory II, Classical Electricity and Magnetism II, and General Physics. He has been recognized with the Thomas Ashley Graves Award for Sustained Excellence in Teaching (1994) and the Alumni Fellows Award (1978). His recent work explores topics like twisted photon interactions, lattice QCD corrections, and proton structure corrections to atomic spectroscopy. He has held sabbaticals at institutions like the Helsinki Institute for Physics and the Helmholtz Institute Mainz.
Jens Dittmer is a Professor at Le Mans University, affiliated with the Institute of Molecules and Materials of Le Mans (IMMM). His research focuses on advanced solid-state NMR techniques for studying paramagnetic systems, ion conductors, hybrid perovskites, and polymer degradation. Key projects include developing NMR methods for paramagnetic materials, analyzing lithium garnets for battery applications, and collaborating with Pratt Institute on art conservation using NMR. Primary Affiliation: Institute of Molecules and Materials of Le Mans (IMMM), Le Mans University Research Highlights: Paramagnetic Solid-State NMR, Ion Mobility in Garnets, Hybrid Perovskite Photovoltaics, Polymer Degradation in Art Conservation His work bridges fundamental NMR physics with applied material science, particularly in energy and cultural heritage sectors. Collaborations span international institutions including University of Rennes, ParisTech, and Pratt Institute. Current projects emphasize sustainable material design and non-invasive analytical techniques.
Professor Cindy Regal holds the Baur-SPIE Endowed Chair in Optical Physics and Photonics at the University of Colorado Boulder, affiliated with JILA, a joint institute of the university and NIST. Her research focuses on engineering isolated quantum systems for quantum information and optics, particularly manipulating single/few neutral atoms and controlling phonons in mesoscopic oscillators using optical interfaces and laser cooling. She has pioneered optomechanical systems, including laser-cooled membranes and microwave-to-optical transducers. Regal’s work bridges atomic physics and quantum engineering, with applications in quantum sensors and quantum networks. Education/Background : Ph.D. in Physics, notable contributions in ultracold atoms and optomechanics. Her research interests emphasize quantum optomechanics, cryogenic Rydberg atom arrays, and electro-optic quantum converters. Collaborations include projects like the National Quantum Nanofab (NQN), funded by NSF, and the Quantum Systems Accelerator. Recent publications (2025) highlight advancements in Rydberg atom trapping, optomechanical cooling, and quantum magnetometry. Awards include the Brown Investigator (2025) and Baur-SPIE Chair (2020). Teaching : Courses include Physics 2010 (Classical Mechanics), 3330 (Electronics for Physical Sciences), and advanced quantum mechanics. Funding sources include NSF, Brown Institute, AFOSR, and ONR. Her lab (Regal Lab) collaborates with groups like JILA’s Kaufman and Lehnert teams. Future work includes scaling quantum systems and developing quantum technologies.
Dr. Laura Galazzo is a Lecturer at the Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences, ETH Zurich, affiliated with the Institute of Molecular Physical Sciences (IMPS). Her research focuses on biophysical chemistry and molecular dynamics, employing advanced spectroscopic techniques like Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) to study protein structure, phase transitions, and membrane transport mechanisms. She investigates topics such as liquid-liquid phase separation in proteins, ABC transporter function, and nitroxide radical dynamics in aqueous environments. Dr. Galazzo also contributes to methodological advancements in pulsed dipolar spectroscopy and neural network applications in spectroscopic data analysis. Her work bridges theoretical and experimental approaches, combining computational methods (e.g., ab initio molecular dynamics) with experimental techniques to address complex biological systems. Key areas of study include protein aggregation, conformational changes in large complexes, and the interplay between solvent effects and biomolecular behavior. Recent research highlights include studies on mycobacterial iron uptake mechanisms and the structural dynamics of pro-apoptotic peptides. Dr. Galazzo’s publications reflect a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches, integrating spectroscopy, computational modeling, and structural biology. Her contributions have advanced methodologies for distance measurements in biomolecules and provided insights into fundamental biological processes such as phase separation and membrane-mediated transport. She is actively engaged in promoting sustainable education through initiatives like the EquipSent project, aiming to enhance global access to scientific resources.
Petros Rakitzis is a Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of Crete and affiliated with the Foundation for Research and Technology - Hellas (FORTH) at the Institute of Electronic Structure and Laser (IESL). He received his B.A. in Physics and Chemistry from Cornell University (1992) and his Ph.D. in Physics from Stanford University (1997), focusing on atomic and molecular angular momentum in chemical reactions. Since 2001, he has progressed from Lecturer to Professor, securing the prestigious ERC Starting Grant in 2008. His research spans quantum angular momentum, spin polarization, photodissociation dynamics, and cavity-enhanced spectroscopy. Education: B.A. in Physics and Chemistry, Cornell University (1992); Ph.D. in Physics, Stanford University (1997) Rakitzis's work explores spin manipulation in particle beams, polarization phenomena in spectroscopy, and chirality sensing using parity-time-symmetric systems. His research has applications in nuclear fusion, laser-plasma acceleration, and quantum metrology. He leads the PREFER collaboration, focusing on polarization research for fusion experiments and reactors, and has developed techniques like signal-reversing cavity ring-down polarimetry for precision measurements. His recent publications highlight trends in spin-polarized hydrogen production, cavity-based chiral sensing, and parity nonconservation studies. These works intersect atomic physics, quantum optics, and nuclear fusion, with methodologies involving laser excitation, relativistic plasmas, and advanced spectroscopic techniques. Scientific Awards: ERC Starting Grant (2008) Rakitzis has contributed to experimental techniques and theoretical frameworks in spin polarization and photodissociation, securing grants and advancing polarized beam applications. His research impacts fusion energy, quantum sensing, and fundamental symmetry studies.
