Dr. Fabian Schmid is a Researcher affiliated with the Institute for Quantum Electronics at ETH Zürich, working within the Professorship for Experimental Quantum Information . His research focuses on quantum control, precision spectroscopy, and optical frequency comb technologies. Key applications include molecular ion manipulation, laser cooling techniques, and advanced spectroscopic methods for atomic and molecular systems. His work bridges quantum physics and optics, with contributions to ultra-stable laser systems, low-repetition-rate frequency combs, and high-resolution spectroscopic measurements. Recent efforts target applications in trapped ion systems and new boson constraints via calcium isotope studies. Schmid's experimental setups often involve precision engineering of optical components and cavity-stabilized laser systems. Notable experimental achievements include demonstrating quantum control over single molecular ions (H₂⁺) and developing number-resolved detection methods for Coulomb crystals. His research also explores synergies between dual-species laser cooling and cavity-based technologies. While currently holding no listed academic awards, Schmid's contributions are evident through his prolific publishing record in top-tier physics journals. His lab work integrates cutting-edge quantum optics with atomic physics to advance fundamental understanding and precision measurement capabilities.
Konrad Viebahn is a Researcher at ETH Zurich's Department of Physics, working within the Professorship for Quantum Optics. Based at HPF D 23, Otto-Stern-Weg 1, Zurich, he contributes to experimental quantum simulation research with contact via viebahnk@ethz.ch and +41 44 633 23 45. His research centers on quantum many-body systems in optical lattices, specializing in topological phenomena and Floquet engineering. Key interests include Thouless pumping in driven systems, quantum control of ultracold atoms, and mitigating heating in Floquet-Hubbard lattices. His work bridges theoretical concepts like topological phase transitions with experimental implementations using laser-cooled atomic gases. Analysis of his 2021-2025 publications reveals a consistent focus on engineering topological quantum behavior through periodic driving techniques. His group pioneers two-tone driving methods to manipulate band structures, enabling protected quantum gates and precise charge pumping. This research directly addresses challenges in quantum simulation scalability and error mitigation for future quantum technologies. As part of ETH Zurich's Quantum Optics group, Dr. Viebahn utilizes advanced optical lattice platforms to study strongly correlated quantum matter. The team's experimental setup involves precision laser systems for creating dynamical potentials, with recent work emphasizing the interplay between interactions and topology in non-equilibrium systems.
Kirsten Moselund is a Professor at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL) and Head of the Laboratory for Nano and Quantum Technologies (LNQ) at the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) since 2022. She leads LNQ’s six research groups focused on nanotechnology and advanced nanomanufacturing quantum computing technologies with co-location of the ETHZ-PSI Quantum Computing Hub and affiliation to EPFL's Quantum Science and Engineering Center (QSE) . Her research spans semiconductor device physics and technology development, including III-V electronics nanophotonics topological devices cryogenic electronics with applications in quantum computing, optical communication, and integrated photonics. She received an ERC Starting Grant for hybrid photonic-plasmonic nanolasers. Recent publications focus on III-V photodetectors on silicon hybrid laser integration thermal management in nanocavities topological mode emission across Nature Communications , ACS Photonics , and Nature Electronics . Scientific awards include ERC Starting Grant and institutional roles such as Member of IHP Microelectronics Scientific Advisory Board Executive Board of Swiss Photonics Technical Program Committee member for IEDM conference At PSI, she oversees construction of the Park InnovAare cleanroom opening in 2024 and collaborates with international groups on theoretical foundations and simulations.
Prof. David J. Norris is a Full Professor at ETH Zurich's Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering and Director of the Optical Materials Engineering Laboratory. He holds a B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Chicago (1990) and a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from MIT (1995). His research focuses on engineering materials to achieve novel optical properties, particularly semiconductor nanocrystals (quantum dots) and plasmonic films. Notable awards include the Max Rössler Prize (2015) and ERC Advanced Grant (2014-2019). Research interests span nanoscale optical phenomena, including exciton dynamics in colloidal systems and plasmonic nanofocusing. He has pioneered studies on magic-sized semiconductor nanocrystals and developed methods for high-throughput characterization of atomically thin semiconductors. His work bridges nanotechnology and photonics, addressing applications in lasers, sensors, and energy systems. Awards also include the Credit Suisse Award for Best Teaching (2015) and fellowships from the American Physical Society and AAAS. He serves on editorial boards for ACS Photonics and Nano Letters , reflecting his leadership in nanophotonics and materials science. Grants include an ERC Advanced Grant supporting his exploration of optical materials. His lab’s innovations include template-stripping techniques for plasmonic devices and plasmon-enhanced catalysis. Past roles include Director of Graduate Studies at the University of Minnesota and an Alexander von Humboldt Fellowship at TU Munich (2006-2007).
Prof. Patrick Maletinsky is a Full Professor and Head of the Department of Physics at the University of Basel. He leads the Maletinsky Research Group focused on quantum sensing and nanoscale magnetometry using nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond. His academic journey includes a PhD from ETH Zurich (2010 Schläfli Prize recipient) and postdoctoral research at Harvard University. Current research emphasizes quantum technologies for imaging exotic materials and mesoscopic systems, with applications in condensed matter physics and quantum computing. Key projects include the QuantumLeap initiative and leadership in NCCR SPIN for silicon-based quantum computing. Education: PhD in Physics, ETH Zurich (2008) Studies at École Normale Supérieure Paris and JILA, Boulder Research interests span quantum sensing, nanoscale magnetometry, and NV center-based tools for probing magnetic materials. His group pioneered cryogenic nanoscale magnetometers and demonstrated imaging of cuprate superconductors. Awards include the Georg-H.-Endress Professorship (2012) and promotion to Associate Professor (2017) before becoming Full Professor and Department Head. Scientific achievements include coupling NV spins to mechanical oscillators, strain-based sensing, and nanophotonics in diamond nanostructures. His work bridges quantum technologies with condensed matter challenges, targeting exotic states like topological materials and strongly correlated systems.
Prof. Dr. Romain Quidant is a Full Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering at ETH Zürich, where he also serves as Head of the Institute for Energy and Process Engineering. His research focuses on nanophotonics, optomechanics, and plasmonics with applications in quantum optics, biomedical engineering, and thermal control systems. He leads a multidisciplinary team exploring light-matter interactions at the nanoscale, particularly in levitated nanoparticles and plasmonic therapies. Key research interests include quantum optomechanical systems, plasmonic nanothermometry, and targeted photothermal therapies. His work bridges fundamental physics with practical applications such as precision measurement, medical imaging, and energy-efficient materials. Recent studies highlight advancements in optical trapping techniques, thermal wavefront shaping, and robotic surgery guidance using fluorescent nanothermometry. Prof. Quidant’s publications showcase innovations in reconfigurable meta-surfaces, optofluidic platforms for high-throughput analysis, and adaptive thermal microscopy for brain imaging. His lab develops integrated systems for medical diagnostics, environmental sensing, and quantum-enabled technologies. These efforts have been applied to cancer treatment optimization and novel materials for energy systems.
Dr. Matteo Fadel is a Researcher in the Department of Physics at the University of Basel, working in the Quantum Optics Lab led by Prof. Philipp Treutlein. He completed his PhD (2014-2018) and Postdoc (2018-2021) in the same group, focusing on quantum many-body systems, entanglement, and quantum metrology. His research explores foundational aspects of quantum physics using ultracold atoms and hybrid atom-optomechanical systems, with applications in quantum technologies like quantum memories and sensors. Education: B.Sc. Physics, University of Padua (2008-2011) M.Sc. Physics, ETH Zurich (2011-2013) Key Research Interests: Entanglement in macroscopic systems (e.g., Bose-Einstein condensates) Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen steering and quantum nonlocality Quantum memories and optical storage in atomic vapor cells Hybrid quantum systems (e.g., atom-mechanical oscillator coupling) Publications Highlight: Recent work includes observing the EPR paradox in two Bose-Einstein condensates (2023), developing microfabricated quantum memories (2024), and studying spin squeezing in helium-3 (2021). These contributions bridge fundamental quantum physics with technological applications. Awards: Prix Schläfli 2019 (Swiss Academy of Sciences) Contributor to Paul Ehrenfest Best Paper Award 2017 Teaching: Fadel has contributed to courses such as Physik IV, Quantum Optics I, and Introductory Computational Quantum Mechanics at the University of Basel.
Prof. Dr. Lukas Novotny is a Full Professor of Photonics at ETH Zurich's Department of Information Technology and Electrical Engineering. His research focuses on nanoscale light-matter interactions, with applications in biosensors, optoelectronics, and quantum systems. He holds an ETH Zurich diploma (1992) and PhD (1996), followed by research at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory and the University of Rochester, where he became Professor of Optics and Physics before joining ETH in 2012. He also serves as a Distinguished Invited Professor at ICFO, Spain. Education: PhD (1996), Diploma (1992) in Electrical Engineering, ETH Zurich Research interests include photonics, optoelectronics, and nanooptics, with breakthroughs in plasmonic biosensors, quantum optomechanics, and 2D material applications. His work emphasizes ultrasensitive detection and directional photon emission. Notable achievements include eight patents and accolades like AAAS Fellowship (2010) and OSA Fellowship (2007). Recent articles highlight advancements in quantum systems, optomechanical levitation, and graphene-based modulators. His research bridges fundamental physics with technological applications in photonics and materials science. Awards: ETH Medal (1997), M.T. Thomas Award (1997), SNF-funded projects Prof. Novotny's labs focus on nanophotonics and quantum technologies, collaborating globally. His work aligns with ETH's strategic research in quantum engineering and nanotechnology.
Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in LausanneSwitzerland
Aurélien Bornet is a Lecturer at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) in the School of Basic Sciences (SB), specifically within the Institute of Chemical Sciences and Engineering (ISIC). He serves as the Platform Leader for the Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Platform at EPFL, where he oversees advanced NMR facilities and research. Dr. Bornet's research focuses on Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Dynamic Nuclear Polarization (DNP) techniques. His work spans several key areas including hyperpolarization methodologies, development of NMR instrumentation, and applications in both chemistry and biomedical fields. His research has led to significant advancements in dissolution DNP, long-lived nuclear spin states, and hyperpolarized metabolite imaging. His recent publication record demonstrates strong activity in developing new NMR techniques and applications, with particular emphasis on hyperpolarization methods that dramatically enhance NMR sensitivity. His work bridges fundamental physics with practical applications in medical imaging and materials science. The research outputs include numerous high-impact publications in journals like Nature Communications, Journal of the American Chemical Society, and Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics, as well as several patents related to NMR technology. Dr. Bornet has received recognition through multiple patents for his innovations in NMR technology, including patents related to polarizing agents, dissolution DNP methods, and NMR instrumentation. His work has important implications for biomedical imaging, particularly in the development of hyperpolarized metabolic imaging for cancer diagnostics and other medical applications. As an educator, Dr. Bornet teaches courses on Basic and Advanced NMR at multiple levels (Level 1 A, Level 1 B, and Level 2) at EPFL and in Sion. His teaching focuses on both theoretical and experimental aspects of NMR, providing students with hands-on experience with modern NMR spectrometers. His academic journey includes completing his PhD at EPFL in 2015 with a thesis on hyperpolarized protons for enhancing NMR sensitivity, advised by G. Bodenhausen and S. Jannin. Prior to this, he completed earlier research on long-lived states as probes of protein stability in 2010 under the supervision of G. Bodenhausen and P. Vasos.
Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in LausanneSwitzerland
Michael Herbst is an Assistant Professor (tenure-track) at EPFL, holding a joint appointment in the School of Basic Sciences (SB) and the School of Engineering (STI). He leads the Mathematics for Materials Modelling (MatMat) research group, focusing on error control in atomistic simulations, density-functional theory (DFT), and interdisciplinary computational methods. His work bridges mathematics, materials science, and computer science, emphasizing robust algorithms and Julia-based software development. Herbst holds a PhD from Heidelberg University and has held postdoctoral positions at RWTH Aachen and Inria Paris. He is a core member of the MARVEL and CESMIX research centers. Education: 2018: Dr. rer. nat. (magna cum laude), Heidelberg University 2009–2013: BA and MSci (1st class) in Natural Sciences, University of Cambridge 2008–2009: Studies in Mathematics/Physics, TU Kaiserslautern Research Interests : Herbst's research centers on developing reliable computational methods for materials modeling, including error estimation in DFT, black-box SCF algorithms, and Julia-based tools like the Density-Functional Toolkit (DFTK). His work addresses challenges in high-throughput simulations, numerical stability, and interdisciplinary collaboration across mathematics, physics, and computer science. Grants & Projects : MARVEL Center for Computational Design (EPFL) CESMIX Center for Extreme-Scale Simulations (MIT) EMC² Project (Sorbonne/Inria/École des Ponts) Awards : HGS MathComp PostDoc Fellowship (2018–2021) DAAD Travel Funding (2018) Exploratory Research Space Fund (RWTH Aachen, 2022) Labs & Teams : Head of the MatMat group at EPFL, focusing on error-controlled simulations and open-source software development.
Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in LausanneSwitzerland
Pasquale Scarlino is a Tenure Track Assistant Professor in the Institute of Physics at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), where he founded and leads the Hybrid Quantum Circuits (HQC) Laboratory. He holds a dual appointment with the School of Basic Sciences (SB) and the Physics Section (SB-SPH), conducting research at the intersection of semiconductor and superconducting quantum technologies. His laboratory develops hybrid quantum hardware for advanced quantum information processing. His educational background includes a Master's degree in Physics from the University of Salento (Italy, 2011), where he was a student of Scuola Superiore ISUFI, followed by a Ph.D. from TU Delft (2016) in the Spin Qubits group of Prof. L.M.K. Vandersypen at the Kavli Institute of Nanoscience-Qutech. His doctoral work focused on Si/SiGe spin qubits in collaboration with the M. Eriksson Group at Wisconsin University. Scarlino's research centers on experimental quantum physics using hybrid superconductor/semiconductor devices with electrostatically defined quantum dots coupled to high-impedance microwave resonators. He investigates light-matter interactions in unconventional regimes, quantum transport in low-dimensional systems, and spin/charge qubit implementations. His work aims to merge semiconductor and superconducting platforms to expand quantum information capabilities, with applications in quantum computing, quantum optics, and analog quantum simulation. Early career achievements include establishing the first coherent interface between superconducting and semiconducting quantum systems using high-impedance resonators. His publication record shows strong focus on microwave photon-mediated interactions between quantum systems, with recent work exploring quantum acoustics, topological band engineering, and criticality-enhanced sensing. The articles demonstrate increasing specialization in hybrid quantum hardware, with a shift toward germanium-based systems and advanced resonator designs in the latest publications. Scarlino has advised eleven Ph.D. students at EPFL and teaches courses including General Physics (Electromagnetism), Solid State Systems for Quantum Information, and Introduction to Quantum Science and Technology. His teaching emphasizes experimental quantum hardware approaches and critical assessment of quantum computing platforms. The Hybrid Quantum Circuits Laboratory operates within EPFL's Institute of Physics, utilizing state-of-the-art nanofabrication facilities and cryogenic measurement setups. The team collaborates extensively with leading quantum research groups worldwide, maintaining strong ties with previous institutions including ETH Zurich, TU Delft, and Microsoft Station Q Copenhagen.
Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in LausanneSwitzerland
Aleksandra Radenovic is a Full Professor at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) holding multiple positions across the institution. She is a Full Professor at the Laboratory of Nanoscale Biology (LBEN) within the School of Engineering (STI), a Full Professor in Teaching at the School of Life Sciences (SV), and a Full Professor in Teaching at the School of Engineering (STI). Additionally, she serves as Co-Director of both the IBI-STI and IBI-SV administrative units, and is a Member of both the STI School direction and SV School direction. Dr. Radenovic received her PhD from the University of Lausanne in 2003, where she worked with Prof. Dietler in the Laboratory of Physics of Living Matter. Prior to that, she studied physics at the University of Zagreb from 1994-1999, and completed her baccalaureate at a Classical gymnasium in 1994. She conducted postdoctoral research at the University of California, Berkeley from 2004-2007 in the group of Prof. Liphardt. Her research focuses on single molecule biophysics, with particular emphasis on developing techniques and methodologies based on optical imaging, biosensing, and single molecule manipulation. Her laboratory works on three major research directions: (i) developing and using nanopores as platforms for molecular sensing and manipulation, particularly solid-state nanopores in glass nanocapillaries and 2D-material membranes; (ii) studying biomolecular function, especially protein and nucleic acid interactions, using force-based manipulation techniques like optical tweezers and Anti-Brownian Electrokinetic traps; and (iii) developing super-resolution optical microscopy based on single molecule localizations for quantitative cellular imaging. Her work bridges physics, engineering, and biology to create innovative tools for understanding molecular processes at the nanoscale. Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong focus on nanofluidics, 2D materials (particularly MoS 2 and hBN), nanopore sensing, super-resolution microscopy, and the development of novel instrumentation for biophysical applications. Her research demonstrates increasing interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating materials science, nanotechnology, and biological applications to address fundamental questions in molecular biophysics. Dr. Radenovic has received numerous prestigious awards and grants, including: 2021: ERC Advanced Grant 2021: Optica Fellow 2016: CCMX Materials challenge award 2015: SNSF-ERC Consolidator Grant 2010: ERC Starting Grant 2003: SNSF Fellowship She has successfully advised numerous PhD students whose research spans single molecule biophysics, nanofluidics, and optical techniques. Her laboratory, the Laboratory of Nanoscale Biology (LBEN), is well-equipped for advanced biophysical research, with capabilities in nanopore fabrication, optical trapping, super-resolution microscopy, and 2D materials characterization. Dr. Radenovic has secured significant research funding through competitive grants, including multiple ERC grants, which have supported her innovative research program at the intersection of physics, engineering, and biology.
Dr. Cornelius Hempel is a Research Fellow at the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) in Switzerland, leading the Ion Trap Quantum Computation group at the PSI Quantum Computing Hub since April 2021. He previously served as a Principal Investigator at the University of Sydney's Quantum Control Laboratory and was promoted to Senior Research Fellow in 2020. His academic training includes physics studies at Martin Luther University and the University of Michigan, followed by a PhD at the University of Innsbruck under Prof. Rainer Blatt and Dr. Christian Roos. Key Affiliations: Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) – Group Head, Ion Trap Quantum Computing University of Sydney – Senior Research Fellow, Quantum Control Laboratory Institut for Quantum Optics and Quantum Information (IQOQI) – Postdoctoral Researcher Research Focus: Hempel specializes in quantum computing using trapped ion systems , with emphasis on analog quantum simulation, error correction, and laser-based quantum control. His work bridges quantum information science and chemical dynamics , enabling quantum simulations of molecular processes. Publications Trends: Recent articles highlight advancements in trapped ion quantum computing, including 3D laser fabrication of ion traps, geometric phase interference studies, and software tools for error suppression. His work combines quantum simulation , quantum control , and quantum chemistry to enhance quantum hardware capabilities. Laboratory Leadership: Hempel leads the Ion Trap Quantum Computation group at the PSI Quantum Computing Hub , focusing on scalable quantum systems and practical implementations of quantum algorithms.
Prof. Tobias Ulrik Donner is a Professor at the Department of Physics, ETH Zurich, leading the Quantum Optics Group within the Institute for Quantum Electronics. His research focuses on quantum optomechanics, cavity quantum electrodynamics (QED), Bose-Einstein condensation, and critical phenomena in quantum gases. He has held roles including Senior Scientist and Postdoctoral Fellow at ETH Zurich, and previously received a DFG fellowship at JILA, USA. Education: PhD in Physics, ETH Zurich (2008) Physics Diploma, University of Tübingen (2004) Exchange Studies, University of Uppsala (2001–2002) Research Interests: Donner’s work explores quantum systems with cavity-mediated interactions, superradiance, and phase transitions in ultracold atomic gases. His group investigates phenomena like supersolidity, dissipative phases, and topological quantum systems using advanced experimental setups and numerical simulations. Publications: His recent work includes groundbreaking studies on superradiant crystals, dissipative phase transitions, and topological pumps in quantum gases. These contributions highlight advancements in cavity-QED systems and non-equilibrium quantum dynamics. Awards: Golden Owl Teaching Award (2024) ERC Consolidator Grant (2022) IOP Outstanding Reviewer Award (2016) qstarter Award (2013) Labs/Teams: He oversees labs specializing in lattice, lithium, and cavity quantum systems, fostering interdisciplinary research in quantum simulation and optomechanics. His group collaborates on projects like the NCCR QSIT initiative.
Dr. Sergii Yakunin is a Lecturer at the Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences at ETH Zürich, specializing in inorganic functional materials. His research focuses on advanced materials for radiation detection, semiconductor devices, and optoelectronic applications. Key areas include perovskite nanocrystals, quantum dots, and photodetector technologies. He leads the Laboratory of Inorganic Chemistry (LAC), emphasizing material synthesis, characterization, and device integration. Research interests encompass radiation detection systems, energy materials, and nanotechnology applications. Recent work highlights advancements in X-ray/gamma detectors using perovskites, colloidal nanocrystal fabrication, and compact optical spectrometers. His contributions bridge fundamental material science with applied technologies for medical imaging, energy harvesting, and photonics. Publications emphasize detector performance optimization, nanocrystal stability, and novel material designs. Current efforts address challenges in detector sensitivity, environmental stability, and scalable manufacturing. Collaborative projects focus on integrating functional materials into wearable and compact devices for next-generation applications.
