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.
Professor Jasper van Wezel is a distinguished academic in the field of Condensed Matter Theory at the University of Amsterdam's Faculty of Science, where he serves as Professor in the Institute for Theoretical Physics (ITFA) within the Institute of Physics. With a career spanning over two decades, he has progressed from Assistant Professor (2014-2016) to Associate Professor (2016-2024) and currently holds the position of Professor since 2024. His academic journey began with a PhD in theoretical condensed matter physics from Leiden University in 2007, followed by prestigious fellowships at Argonne National Laboratory and Homerton College, Cambridge. PhD in theoretical condensed matter physics (cum laude), Leiden University, 2007 Master's diploma in theoretical condensed matter physics (cum laude), Leiden University, 2003 Dutch VWO Diploma (cum laude), Dalton Scholengemeenschap, Den Haag, 1997 US High School Diploma (cum laude), Sanford High School, Maine, USA, 1998 Professor van Wezel's research focuses on several interconnected areas within Condensed Matter Theory. His work explores competing instabilities in Charge Density Wave materials, including Superconductivity and Charge Order, Combined Charge and Orbital Order, and Transition-metal dichalcogenides. He has made significant contributions to Topology in Condensed Matter, particularly examining the Role of crystal symmetries and Topology in non-Hermitian systems. A major theme in his research involves investigating the Connections between Quantum and Classical behaviour, with special emphasis on Spontaneous Symmetry Breaking both in equilibrium (The role of the Thin Spectrum) and dynamically (Spontaneous loss of Unitarity). Analysis of Professor van Wezel's recent publications reveals a strong focus on quantum phenomena in condensed matter systems, with particular attention to topological aspects, symmetry breaking, and connections to fundamental physics concepts like black hole thermodynamics. His work often bridges theoretical concepts with potential experimental realizations, as evidenced by studies on electron patterns in materials like TaS2 and theoretical frameworks for understanding quantum phase transitions. Bristol Physics Teaching Award (2014) Students' Award for Outstanding Teaching (2014) Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (2014) Aneesur Rahman Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory (2010-2012) Junior Research Fellowship at Homerton College, Cambridge (2007-2010) Physics 'Discovery of the year' by Leiden University Physics department (2005) 'Onderwijsprijs Natuurkunde' teaching award (2004/2005) Professor van Wezel has secured numerous research grants including an ENW-M grant (2023), an ENW-Groot project with Leiden University (2021), and a prestigious VIDI personal grant from NWO (2014). He has supervised over 50 students at various levels, including PhD candidates, MSc students, and BSc students, fostering the next generation of physicists. His leadership extends to organizing conferences, serving on PhD committees, and holding administrative roles such as chair of the educational committee for the Dutch Research School in Theoretical Physics. His research group at the University of Amsterdam's Institute for Theoretical Physics maintains active collaborations with institutions worldwide, including Leiden University, University of Cambridge, University of Bristol, and research centers in France, Germany, and Poland. The group's work combines analytical theoretical approaches with computational methods to tackle fundamental questions in quantum condensed matter physics.
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.
Alberto G. Curto is an Assistant Professor at Eindhoven University of Technology, specializing in nanophotonics and semiconductor optoelectronics. He leads research on light-matter interactions at the nanoscale, focusing on atomically thin semiconductors and chiral nanophotonics applications. His work spans sensing, imaging, and spectroscopy, with contributions to directional light emission and chiral detection technologies. Education BSc in Physics, Universidad de Salamanca (2002–2007) MSc and PhD in Photonics, ICFO – The Institute of Photonic Sciences (2008–2013) Postdoctoral Fellow at Stanford University (2013–2016) Research Interests Curto’s research explores semiconductor nanophotonics for sensing and imaging, leveraging atomically thin materials and chiral optics. Key areas include: Enhanced light-matter interactions using nano-optical structures Chiral detection via dielectric resonators and metasurfaces Exciton dynamics in 2D semiconductors Publications His work emphasizes practical applications of nanophotonics, with recent studies on chiral sensing enhancement, silicon metasurfaces, and exciton manipulation. Over 47 peer-reviewed articles highlight his contributions to light confinement and directional emission. Awards ERC Starting Grant (2020) NWO START-UP Grant (2018) OSA Senior Member (2021) ICFO PhD Thesis Award (2014) Grants & Projects He leads the Zwaartekracht PSN Research Centre for Integrated Nanophotonics (2014–2025), focusing on nanowires, photonic crystals, and photonics applications. Labs & Teams His research group at TU Eindhoven develops novel nanophotonic devices and chiral sensing platforms, collaborating on projects like the ERC CHANSON grant.
Daniel Vanmaekelbergh is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Utrecht University, where he leads research in the Condensed Matter and Interfaces group within the Debye Institute for Nanomaterials Science. His academic career spans over two decades with continuous contributions to nanomaterials science and semiconductor physics. Professor Vanmaekelbergh's research focuses on the fundamental properties of semiconductor nanocrystals, quantum dots, and artificial electronic lattices. His work bridges theoretical and experimental approaches to investigate electron transport, quantum confinement effects, and the optical properties of nanoscale materials. He has made significant contributions to understanding the formation mechanisms of nanocrystal superlattices, the electronic structure of artificial honeycomb lattices, and the dynamics of excitons in confined systems. His research group, known as the Vanmaekelbergh Lab, employs advanced techniques including scanning tunneling spectroscopy, electron microscopy, and optical spectroscopy to probe nanoscale phenomena. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on the physics of quantum-confined systems, particularly in lead chalcogenide and cadmium selenide nanocrystals. His work explores the relationship between nanocrystal structure and electronic properties, with applications in optoelectronics and quantum technologies. Recent research has focused on oriented attachment processes, artificial quantum systems with fractal geometries, and the fundamental limits of light-matter interactions in nanoscale materials. Professor Vanmaekelbergh has established a productive research program with numerous collaborations across the Netherlands and internationally. His work has been published consistently in high-impact journals including Nature Physics, Nano Letters, and ACS Nano, demonstrating the significance of his contributions to the field of nanomaterials science.
Muharrem Bayraktar is an Assistant Professor at the MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology at the University of Twente, specializing in XUV Optics. His research focuses on extreme ultraviolet (EUV) optics, plasma spectroscopy, and adaptive optical systems. He leads projects involving EUV source metrology, piezoelectric thin film actuators, and laser-driven plasma diagnostics. Research Interests: Bayraktar’s work centers on developing advanced EUV light sources for nanolithography applications. He investigates plasma physics in tin-based EUV emitters, optimizing thin film materials for adaptive optics, and improving spectral characterization techniques. His group explores piezoelectric thin films for precision wafer tables and multilayer mirror systems to enhance EUV beam control. Awards: 3rd Place in Simon Stevin Fellow Contest (2016) Best poster award (2018) Best poster award (2019) Advising & Activities: Supervises research on EUV source development and piezoelectric actuators. Engages in international collaborations on plasma diagnostics and adaptive optics. Active in presenting at conferences on topics like ‘EUV Source Metrology’ and ‘Nanolithography Systems’. Labs/Teams: Leads the XUV Optics team within MESA+, collaborating with industry partners on EUV lithography systems and advanced optical components.
Edgar J.D. Vredenbregt is an Associate Professor in the Department of Applied Physics at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e). His research focuses on quantum technologies, including ultracold atom trapping for quantum computing and novel charged particle sources. He leads projects on Rydberg atom-based quantum computing and ultracold ion beams for nanoscale applications. Education: MSc in Applied Physics (TU/e, 1986), PhD in Atomic and Molecular Physics (TU/e, 1990). Postdoctoral research at SUNY Stony Brook (1991-1993) and NIST (1998). He holds a KNAW fellowship (1995-2000) and has been a project member in KAT-1: Rydberg Atom Quantum Computing and Simulation since 2020. Research interests include ultracold electrons/ions for high-brightness applications, Rydberg atom arrays for quantum gates, and laser-cooled ion beams for nanotechnology. He has developed ultracold electron sources for ultrafast diffraction and focused-ion beam tools for 1 nm-scale silicon wafer modification. Publications span quantum computing, atomic physics, and nanotechnology. He teaches courses like Hybrid Quantum Computing and Physics of Plasma and Radiation. Supervised 69 student works but no names are listed in the provided texts.
Erik PAM Bakkers is a Professor in the Applied Physics and Science Education department at the Technical University of Eindhoven, where he leads the Advanced Nanomaterials & Devices research group and is affiliated with the Center for Quantum Materials and Technology Eindhoven. He also serves as a part-time professor at Delft Technical University in the Quantum Transport group, maintaining dual academic appointments. His research spans three primary domains: Nanomaterials, with a focus on Majorana particles in collaboration with Delft University, where recent discoveries have opened new frontiers in quantum information processing Light emission from silicon through crystal structure engineering, potentially revolutionizing fiber-optic communications Nanowire applications in solar cells, achieving significant efficiency gains through flexible designs using III/V semiconductor nanowires embedded in PDMS polymer Bakkers' publication record reveals a strong trajectory in quantum technologies and nanomaterials science, with emphasis on Majorana fermions, topological superconductivity, and quantum transport phenomena. His work consistently appears in premier journals including Nature, Science, and Nature Nanotechnology, demonstrating exceptional impact across quantum computing and renewable energy fields. His scientific recognition includes: NWO Vici Award (2010) for "Control of nanomaterials" ERC Consolidator Grant (HELENA, 2013) ERC Advanced Grant (2019) for "New nanomaterial to definitively demonstrate teleportation of Majorana particles" Professor Bakkers has supervised 77 students throughout his career and currently leads the "Enabling Majorana Braiding" project (2018-2028). His research group, established at Eindhoven in 2017, maintains strategic partnerships with industry leaders including IBM, Microsoft, and Philips, bridging fundamental research with practical applications in quantum computing and sustainable energy technologies.
Oluwafemi Stephen Ojambati serves as Assistant Professor at the MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, University of Twente. His research bridges quantum optics and nanophotonics with strong emphasis on light-matter interactions in complex nanoscale systems. His research focuses on nanophotonic systems where light interacts with matter at sub-wavelength scales. Key interests include plasmonic nanocavities, quantum emitter control, and energy transport in disordered media. The fingerprint analysis reveals primary expertise in Media Physics (100%), Flux Density Physics (78%), and Light Physics (68%), with significant contributions to nanophotonics, diffusivity physics, and electromagnetic absorption phenomena. Recent publications demonstrate leadership in manipulating light at nanoscale dimensions, particularly through plasmonic structures and quantum emitters. His work shows consistent focus on Quantum optical effects in nanocavities Nanoscale energy conversion mechanisms Single-object detection below 15 nm Molecular transitions in confined electromagnetic fields Scientific Awards: 3rd Poster Prize at Complex Nanophotonic Science Camp (2015) Ojambati maintains active research collaborations across international borders as evidenced by the network visualization. His speaking engagements demonstrate thought leadership in controlling light in complex nanophotonic systems and efficient energy conversion . The MESA+ Institute provides the infrastructure for his experimental work in nanofabrication and optical characterization. His laboratory work centers on adaptive quantum optics within the MESA+ ecosystem, utilizing advanced nanofabrication techniques to create plasmonic nanocavities and photonic band gap crystals for probing fundamental light-matter interactions.
Peter Zijlstra is a Full Professor in the Department of Applied Physics at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), leading the Molecular Plasmonics group. His research focuses on single-molecule sensing using plasmonic and nanophotonic approaches to study biomolecular interactions in complex environments. He is a core member of the Institute for Complex Molecular Systems at TU/e, collaborating across disciplines like chemistry, biomedical engineering, and mathematics. Education: MSc in Applied Physics, University of Twente (2005) PhD from Swinburne University of Technology (2009), studying plasmonic nanoparticles in optical data storage Postdoctoral fellowship at Leiden University under Prof. Michel Orrit Research Interests: Developing novel sensing concepts via nanophotonics and super-resolution microscopy. Key areas include plasmon-enhanced fluorescence, real-time biomolecular dynamics, and applications in cancer management. His work contributes to UN Sustainable Development Goals through advancements in biosensing technologies. Awards: 2013 NWO Vidi Award for research on plasmonic imaging of enzymes in living cells Teaching & Activities: Teaches courses like Advanced Optical Microscopy and Electromagnetism Supervised 32 academic works Contributed to conferences and editorial roles for journals like npj Biosensing Labs & Collaborations: Molecular Plasmonics group website: www.molecular-plasmonics.nl Marie Curie ITN SuperCol project: www.supercol.eu
Christian A. Nijhuis is a Full Professor at the University of Twente's MESA+ Institute for Nanotechnology, within the Faculty of Science and Technology. His research focuses on hybrid materials for opto-electronics, molecular electronics, and nanotechnology, with emphasis on self-assembled monolayers, molecular tunnel junctions, and plasmonic devices. He leads the Hybrid Materials for Opto-Electronics group, driving innovations in molecular-scale devices and electronic hardware. His work integrates chemistry, physics, and engineering to develop advanced materials and nanoscale systems. Notable contributions include molecular-scale reconfigurable electronics, plasmonic energy harvesting, and biomimetic sensors. Recent projects explore proton-coupled electron transport, self-assembled monolayer stability, and plasmonic waveguide engineering. Research trends in his publications highlight molecular-level control over charge transport, plasmonic phenomena, and integration of organic-inorganic systems. He actively collaborates internationally, advancing optoelectronic devices and sensor technologies. His group's work addresses challenges in energy-efficient computing and sustainable materials. He has delivered invited talks on 'Intelligent molecular materials' and 'Biomolecular interactions', showcasing interdisciplinary research impact. His lab develops cutting-edge tools for in-operando characterization of molecular junctions and nanoscale systems.
Shuxia Tao is an Associate Professor at the Department of Applied Physics, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), leading the Computational Materials Physics Group. Her research bridges quantum mechanics and macroscopic material performance through first-principles simulations and machine learning. Education: MSc in Physical Chemistry (Nankai University, China) and PhD (TU/e, 2011) in computational materials design. Roles: Affiliated with Materials Simulation & Modelling (MSM) division, Computational Center for Energy Research (CCER), and Eindhoven Institute for Renewable Energy Systems (EIRES). Her work focuses on chiral-induced spin selectivity (CISS), spin electrochemistry (SEC), and quantum phenomena in halide, oxide, and nitride materials. Recent publications analyze temperature-dependent chirality in perovskites, circular dichroism modeling, and band gap engineering for optoelectronic applications. Scientific awards include: 2024 NWO Open Competition M Grant 2024 ERC Consolidator Grant 2023 Aspasia Award 2022 NWO VIDI 2019 NWO START-UP 2016 CSER Tenure Track Fellowship She serves as Associate Editor for AI for Science (IOP Publishing) and on editorial boards of Applied Physics Letters . Her group collaborates with national and international research communities in Nano, Quantum, and Materials Physics.
Prof. Henk Stoof is a theoretical physicist at Utrecht University's Department of Theoretical Physics (ITF), specializing in condensed matter and quantum systems. His research focuses on collective quantum phenomena in ultracold atomic gases, neutron stars, and topological materials like Weyl semimetals and quantum Hall systems. He has pioneered studies on space-time crystals, excitonic dynamics in nanomaterials, and holographic models of strongly correlated systems. Recipient of prestigious grants: NWO VICI (2003), NWO Gravitation (2012) Fellow of the American Physical Society (2006) Distinguished Simons Lecturer (2004) His work bridges quantum many-body theory with experimental systems, including Bose-Einstein condensates and light condensates. Key contributions include discovering space-time crystalline order in superfluids and advancing understanding of topological excitons and strange metal behavior. Teaching responsibilities include courses on statistical field theory and complex systems. He collaborates internationally and advises on grants related to quantum hydrodynamics and topological phases.
Stan F.S.P. Looijmans is an Assistant Professor at the Processing and Performance of Materials group within the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e). His research focuses on bridging the gap between processing-induced structure formation and mechanical properties in semi-crystalline polymers, with a particular emphasis on advanced characterization techniques and multiscale modeling. Academic Background : BSc and MSc in Mechanical Engineering (TU/e), PhD in 2023 on adhesion-modified polypropylene composites Research Tools : Synchrotron X-ray/infrared radiation, microscale mechanical testing, numerical simulations His work explores key areas such as: Crystallization in additive manufacturing Structure formation under extreme conditions Micromechanical testing of composites Contact mechanics phenomena Local failure prediction in semi-crystalline systems Recent publications highlight his expertise in polymer crystallization kinetics, fiber-reinforced composites, and processing-structure-property relationships. Notably, his 2025 work on PLA stereocomplexation and PP/HDPE blends demonstrates innovative approaches to microstructure engineering. He contributes to education through courses in mechanical characterization of materials and soft materials processing.
Marion K. Matters-Kammerer is a Full Professor of Electrical Engineering at Eindhoven University of Technology, leading research in terahertz (THz) and millimeter-wave systems. She holds positions in the Center for Wireless Technology, THz Electronics and Integration Lab, and RF Sensing & Communication Lab. Her expertise includes integrated circuits, antenna design, and power amplifier systems. She has led EU projects like 3DmicroTune and ULTRA, and co-authored over 70 journal/conference papers with 13 US patents. Education: MSc in Physics from École Normale Supérieure (Paris) and TU Berlin (1999), PhD in Physics from RWTH Aachen (2007). Past roles include Senior Scientist at Philips Research (1999–2011) and Guest Professor at RWTH Aachen (2009–2010). Research focuses on THz spectroscopy, mm-wave integrated circuits, and energy-efficient wireless systems. Key projects involve THz biosensing, 60 GHz sensor networks, and co-integration of photonics and electronics. Her work addresses UN SDGs like affordable and clean energy, and industry-academia collaboration via NXP Smart Mobility projects. Recent articles highlight advancements in mm-wave power amplifiers, waveguide integration, and radar signal processing. Grants include €2.5M for TeraIBs (2025–2028) and €1.8M for Future Wireless Interfaces (2024–2029). Labs include THz Electronics Lab and RF Sensing Team, advancing sensor and communication technologies.
