Research

What is Quantum theory?

Quantum theory governs the behaviour of atoms, photons and is responsible for collective effects such as superconductivity and the quantum Hall effect. Whereas stunning progress has been made in the mathematical analysis of quantum physical systems, Heisenberg's principle and the Einstein-Podolsky-Rosen paradox have continued to challenge our intuitive understanding of physics. In particular, they have revolutionised our understanding of the concept of information in physics, leading to proposals for future technologies such as quantum cryptography and quantum computing. For all this, a deeper understanding of the underlying mathematical structures is paramount and is the goal of our research effort. 

Our topics are situated within the research field of Mathematical Physics and the novel interdisciplinary area of Quantum Information Theory. Concrete research projects include the study of Bose-Einstein-Condensation and quantum entropy as well as codes for quantum communication and computation. Our mathematical toolbox contains methods from functional analysis, random geometry, representation theory and draws on concepts and ideas from both physics and computer science.