Group Leader Profiles

Displaying 1 - 29 of 29
Research

Prof. Dr. Ali Alavi

Director at the Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research (MPI-FKF)
homepage
Electronic Structure Theory

The research in the Electronic Structure Theory department is largely concerned with the development of accurate methods to solve many-electron Schrodinger and more generally many-body type eigenvalue problems, which can handle electron correlation and spin-related phenomena, as well as ameliorating basis set errors which rise from slow-basis set convergence which appears in ab initio descriptions. These are problems for which exact solutions generally require exponentially large amounts of computer resources. Progress in such problems usually requires approximate techniques, such as stochastic diagonalisation and related active-space methods, coupled-cluster theory, as well as explicitly correlated methods such as "transcorrelation".

We welcome enquiries from qualified individuals (with a Masters in a relevant field of theoretical chemistry or physics).

Dr. Giovanni Li Manni, group leader at the Electronic Structure Theory Department offers a PhD position in the Field of Theoretical and Computational Chemistry for Enlightening open-shell 3d Metal Complexes through Compressed Ligand Fields. More info can be found here



Research Method and Area:
Theoretical and Experimental
Chemistry

PD Dr. Christian Ast

Group Leader at the Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research (MPI-FKF)
homepage
Quantum Materials and Nanoelectronics - Atomic Scale Spectroscopy

The research in our group is focused on the electronic and magnetic properties of few level systems looking for new quantum limits at the atomic scale. We are exploiting the interplay of magnetism, superconductivity, and correlation effects to isolate few level systems and understand their dynamics. Using scanning tunneling microscopy at lowest temperatures (between 10mK and 500mK), we study individual magnetic impurities coupled to superconducting substrates. We are interested in the resulting phenomena, such as Yu-Shiba-Rusinov states, and their suitability for quantum sensing or information processing. In addition, we combine electron spin resonance spectroscopy with scanning tunneling microscopy to understand and manipulate single spin systems isolated from their enviornment.



Research Method and Area:
Experimental
Physics

Dr. Eva Benckiser

Group Leader at the Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research
homepage
X-ray Spectroscopy of Oxide Heterostructures

The research in our group focuses on the study of transition-metal oxide thin films and multilayers using resonant x-ray spectroscopy. Our goal is to combine different quantum materials in a heterostructure to stabilize new phases with functional properties that can be used, for example, in sensor, memory or logic applications.



Research Method and Area:
Experimental
Physics

Prof. Dr. Hans Peter Büchler

Institute for Theoretical Physics III, University of Stuttgart
homepage
Quantum Many-Body Systems in Cold Atomic and Molecular Gases

The theory group has a long standing experience in the study of quantum phenomena in the field of atomic, molecular and optical physics. A special focus is on the man-body properties of strongly interacting quantum systems, as naturally realized with dipolar gases, cold atoms in optical lattices, polar molecules, and photons in a Rydberg media. The main research goals are the creation of exotic states of matter with ultra-cold gases, the design of quantum simulators for topological ordered phases and the study of their application for quantum information, as well as the understanding of strongly correlated states.



Research Method and Area:
Theoretical
Physics

Prof. Dr. Oliver Clemens

Professor for Materials Chemistry at University of Stuttgart
homepage
New Materials for Energy Applications

The group works on the development of novel battery systems, among them fluoride ion batteries and solid state batteries. For the former, the intercalation and deintercalation of fluoride ions leads to a change of electronic properties, and can induce novel magnetic phenomena or superconductivity. The development of catalysts for the oxygen redduction reaction is further connected to the chemistry of oxyfluoride compounds. In addition, we target the development of materials for solid state batteries, considering their sustainability and suitability for circular economy. Methods used in the group comprise solid state and wet-chemical synthesis routes, thin film deposition as well as topochemical low-temperature routes, combined with structural, electrochemical and magnetic characterization and compositional analysis.



Research Method and Area:
Experimental
Chemistry, Material Science

Prof. Dr. Maria Daghofer

Institute for Functional Matter and Quantum Technologies, University of Stuttgart
homepage
Condensed-Matter Theory

Our group investigates correlated electron systems, i.e., materials where interactions between electrons are crucial if we want to understand their properties. We have a certain focus on numerical investigations of model systems: While models are of course a severe simplification of a material, this abstraction implies at the same time that we can use them to test our understanding of the dominant processes and to identify the most important aspects. Current focuses of our research are multi-orbital systems, e.g. iron-based superconductors or iridates, and topological states of matter that arise through electron-electron and electron-spin interactions.



Research Method and Area:
Theoretical
Physics

Prof. Dr. Robert Dinnebier

Leader of the Scientific Facility "X-Ray Diffraction" at the Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research (MPI-FKF), Adj. Professor at the University of Stuttgart, Hon. Professor at the University of Tübingen
homepage
X-Ray Powder Diffraction

• All aspects of modern powder diffraction • Structure determination • Thermochromic / Photochromic / Electronic / Magnetic materials • Microstructure • In-situ/time-resolved • Non-ambient conditions • Rietveld refinement • Parametric refinement • Landau theory / Strain-order parameter coupling • Method of Maximum Entropy



Research Method and Area:
Experimental
Chemistry, Material Science

Prof. Dr. Martin Dressel

Director of the 1st Physics Institute, University of Stuttgart
homepage
Electronic, Magnetic and Optical Properties of Novel Quantum Materials

Solid state physics, correlated electron systems, molecular quantum materials, magnetically frustrated systems, quantum spin liquids, topological materials, Dirac electrons, physics of low-dimensional solids, superconductivity, materials for quantum computers, electrodynamics of solids, infrared and THz optical measurements of solids, microwave spectroscopy, magneto-optics, ellipsometry, broad-band electron spin resonance



Research Method and Area:
Experimental
Physics

Prof. Dr. Frank Gießelmann

Institute of Physical Chemistry, University of Stuttgart
homepage
Liquid Crystals

Our main research direction is the structure and dynamics of the liquid-crystalline state of matter. Liquid crystals are quintessential soft matter materials and provide an excellent testing ground for the advancement of essential concepts in condensed matter science, such as self-organization, phase transitions, hydrodynamics and elasticity. Systems exhibiting liquid crystalline order range from small rod- or disc-shaped organic molecules (e.g., the ‘classic’ liquid crystals used in LCD devices), over polymers, dispersions of micelles and nanoparticles (e.g., CNTs and viruses) to certain quantum electronic materials. Our research aims to elucidate the relations between the molecular structures, the symmetry and order parameters of liquid crystalline ordering, and the macroscopic properties of liquid crystals. We are particular interested in the unique chirality effects in liquid-crystalline systems, leading to self-organized chiral nanostructures which e.g. mimic the liquid-crystalline structures found in biological matter.



Research Method and Area:
Experimental
Chemistry

PD Dr. Eberhard Goering

Senior Scientist in the Keimer Department at the Max Planck Institute for Solid-State-Research (MPI-FKF)
homepage
Resonant X-Ray-Spectroscopy and Reflectometry (incl. Magnetism, XMCD and XRMR)

Polarized x-ray based studies on magnetism and modern magnetic materials utilizing X-ray magnetism circular dichroism (XMCD) and related techniques, like X-ray resonant reflectivity (XRMR), and X-ray spectroscopic microscopy. While beeing focused on Keimer Department research topics, related phenomena are interface magnetism, spin-orbit-coupling and spin-orbit-torque, voltage induced magnetocrystalline anisotropy, orbital moments, nano-magnetism, spin conduction and relaxation, and interfacial exchange interaction.



Research Method and Area:
Experimental
Physics

PD Dr. Daniel Kats

Group Leader at the Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research (MPI-FKF)
homepage
Coupled Cluster Theory

We are extending the coupled cluster theory, one of the most successful theories for ab-initio simulations of molecules, to study strongly correlated, extended and periodic molecular systems. We are developing novel coupled cluster approaches and embedding methodologies, and use automatic coding techniques to implement the new methods. These methods can be applied to various molecular or model systems, with strongly and weakly correlated electrons, to calculate ground and excited state properties and to predict or explain experimental findings.



Research Method and Area:
Theoretical
Chemistry

Prof. Bernhard Keimer

Director at the Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research (MPI-FKF) Speaker of the IMPRS-CMS
homepage
Physics of Strongly Correlated Electron Systems

The department uses neutron and X-ray diffraction and spectroscopy as well as optical spectroscopy and Raman scattering to explore the structure and dynamics of materials with strong electron correlations. We also have a strong effort in the development of new spectroscopic methods. As the close collaboration between experimentalists and theorists is essential for progress in this field, a small theory group operates within the department.



Research Method and Area:
Experimental
Physics

Dr. Simon Krause

Group Leader at the Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research (MPI-FKF)
homepage
Dynamic framework materials and molecular machines

Our interdisciplinary research group explores how to teach crystals tricks of living matter by investigating dynamic features of molecular framework materials such as metal-organic and covalent organic frameworks (MOFs and COFs). By specifically tuning the structural topology of the framework, we create soft porous crystals which exhibit pore contraction and/or expansion as a response to the adsorption of gases and fluids or external triggers such as light irradiation. Such materials can act as responsive cargo-release systems, nanoscopic sensors or feature counterintuitive phenomena such as negative gas adsorption. We furthermore construct frameworks which contain molecular machines such as light-driven molecular motors and switches as responsive and intrinsically dynamic building blocks. We aim towards collective operating molecular machines in the solid state which are able to actively transport molecules in the pore space and facilitate dynamic conversion and storage of energy carriers and other small molecules. Our diverse team uses a wide range of synthetic and experimental tools and collaborates in national and international research projects to push the boundaries of dynamic features in crystalline solids.



Research Method and Area:
Experimental
Chemistry, Material Science

Prof. Dr. Anke Krueger

Chair of Organic Chemistry at University of Stuttgart, Faculty of Chemistry and Materials Science
homepage

Prof. Dr. Sabine Laschat

Director of the Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Stuttgart
homepage
Catalysis - Liquid Crystals - Synthesis of Natural Products

My research interests deal with the design, synthesis and characterization of novel liquid crystalline materials, hybrid materials of dyes and liquid crystals, as well as biomaterials. We try to understand structure property relationships in such materials towards novel organic electronics, ion conductors and battery materials.



Research Method and Area:
Experimental
Chemistry

Prof. Dr. Laura Na Liu

Director of 2nd Physics Institute, University of Stuttgart
homepage
Nanophotonics and DNA-nanotechnology

Our group works at the interface between nanophotonics and DNA nanotechnology. We aim for the realization of artificial nanofactories, in which DNA-based cellular mimics can be built and work in concert, in direct resemblance to the biological systems in living cells. Using bottom-up (DNA-origami) and top-down (electron beam lithography) nanotechniques we develop nanophotonic building blocks for biology, chemistry, and materials science with both tailored optical response and active functionality. The dynamic building blocks allow us quantitative and kinetic understanding of structural changes, biological processes and phase changes materials down to the single particle level.



Research Method and Area:
Experimental
Physics

Prof. Dr. Bettina Lotsch

Max Planck Research Group Leader "Nanochemistry" at the Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research (MPI-FKF) & Professor at the LMU Munich
homepage
Nanochemistry

Our research explores the rational synthesis of new functional materials by combining the tools of molecular, solid-state and nanochemistry. Research interests include the design of organic, inorganic and hybrid materials for solar energy conversion and storage, ion conductors for electrochemical energy storage, and “smart” photonic crystals for optical sensing. We aim at creating function from both atomic-scale structure and nanoscale morphology, with a strong emphasis on exploring structure-property relationships based on a variety of diffraction and spectroscopic techniques. Recent activities include the development of molecular frameworks for solar batteries, “dark” photocatalysis, photomemristive sensors, and (photo)electrocatalytic CO2 conversion, the development of quantum materials for (photo)electrocatalysis, as well as the design of lithium and sodium thiophosphate and sulfide solid electrolytes for all-solid-state batteries. 



Research Method and Area:
Experimental
Chemistry

Prof. Dr. Sabine Ludwigs

Head of Chair of Structure and Properties of Polymeric Materials, Institute of Polymer Chemistry, University of Stuttgart
homepage
Structure and Properties of Functional Polymeric Materials

In our interdisciplinary and international research team of polymer chemists, physical chemists and materials scientists we are developing functional and intelligent polymer materials and devices.

One of the main aims is to control and manipulate structure-property relationships of hierarchical architectures from the molecular via the nanoscopic to the macroscopic device level.

Functionalities include:

  • redox-activity for electrochemical sensors and electrocatalysis
  • optical and electronic properties for polymer (opto)electronics
  • stimuli-responsive behavior applicable as intelligent skin for controlled drug release in pharmaceutical applications and as actuators and sensors for soft robotics applications

 



Research Method and Area:
Experimental
Chemistry, Material Science

Prof. Dr. Rainer Niewa

Institute of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Stuttgart
homepage
Inorganic Solid State Chemistry and Development of New Materials

The work focuses on synthesis and detailed characterization of metal-rich compounds, preferentially containing nitrogen as a constituent. First emphasis is the design and development of preparative techniques as basis for synthesis of novel materials. Special attention is granted to structural characterization, electronic and magnetic properties as well as mechanical and chemical behavior. These data are inevitable for any detailed consideration of chemical bonding and potential applications. • Advanced solid state synthesis of functional materials including various high pressure techniques, solvothermal synthesis and crystal growth, high temperature synthesis • Solid state reaction pathways and crystal growth mechanisms • Magnetic and superconducting materials, ionic conductors



Research Method and Area:
Experimental
Chemistry

Prof. Dr. Timan Pfau

Director of the 5th Physics Institute, University of Stuttgart
homepage
Quantum Computing and Simulation and Ultra Cold Atoms

Quantum Control with hundreds of qubits is possible if neutral single atoms are trapped in arrays of optical tweezers or in optical lattices. Controlled interaction either via Rydberg excitation or magnetic interactions in optical lattices allow to setup strongly correlated quantums states. Singe atom optical readout via fluorescence allows to connect the qubits to a measurement apparatus without any electircal wiring. We are operating both quantum simulators and computers on these ideas. key words: Quantum Computing, Quantum Simulation, Atomic physics).



Research Method and Area:
Experimental
Physics

Prof. Dr. Bertold Rasche

Jun.-Prof. at the Department of Inorganic Chemistry, University of Stuttgart
homepage
Solid State and Electrochemistry

Electrochemistry provides us with an unmatched lever to control the chemical equilibrium. Employing this lever in inorganic solid state chemistry allows the access to new (metastable) phases and structures. Concomitantly, electrochemistry affords an outstanding precision in the control and analysis of the composition of phases. This is particularly needed when studying complex physical phenomena such as superconductivity, because these properties are often very sensitive towards composition.
My group follows a combined electrochemical and solid state chemical approach, where electrochemistry is used to change the composition of solids post-synthetically, or compounds are synthesised directly from solution. Joining this approach with in-situ X-ray diffraction finally establishes a direct link between the electrochemical experiment and structural changes. This not only provides insights into complex physical phenomena, but is also the foundation of more applied topics such as battery research and electrochemical sensing.



Research Method and Area:
Experimental
Chemistry, Material Science, Physics

Prof. Dr. Mathias Scheurer

Professor at the University of Stuttgart, Institute for Theoretical Physics III
homepage
Theory of strongly correlated quantum matter

Our research deals with the theoretical description of the emergent collective phenomena that arise in interacting quantum many-body systems, resulting from competing interactions, disorder, and topology. More specifically, we are interested in unconventional and topological superconductivity, complex phase diagrams, the impact of impurities in crystals, spin-orbit coupling, magnetism, spin liquids and topological order, moiré superlattice systems, non-Hermitian many-body physics, and more. To address these problems, we use a combination of analytical and numerical techniques of quantum field theory and statistical mechanics. Furthermore, we explore the potential of machine-learning to address problems of many-body physics.



Research Method and Area:
Theoretical
Material Science, Physics

Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. Guido Schmitz

Chair of Materials Physics, IMW University of Stuttgart
homepage
Nanoanalysis in Outstanding Resolution

Our team concentrates on the nanoanalysis of interreactions. We are experts in atom probe tomography to investigate solid-state processes in single-atom sensitivity and resolution. Presently, innovative instruments are developed to study the chemistry of solid/liquid interfaces with the same methods. From the perspective of materials physics, short-circuit atomic transport along triple junctions or other higher order defects in complex materials are of particular interest. We are running a sputter deposition laboratory to produce required model structures from metallic thin films and metallic nanowires. We assemble promising all-solid-state batteries and sensor devices. Theoretical work is performed by Molecular Dynamics or Monte-Carlo simulation to predict field evaporation and emission from nanometric tips. Furthermore, we study thermodynamic properties of topologically necessary defects and the mechanical stability of thin films by theoretical methods.



Research Method and Area:
Experimental
Material Science

Dr. Andreas Schnyder

Group Leader at the Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research (MPI-FKF)
homepage
Theory of Topological Quantum Matter

Our research group studies electronic and magnetic structures of quantum materials. A special focus is on topological materials, which exhibit unusual properties, such as exotic surface states and anomalous transport phenomena, that are unaffected by continuous deformations, e.g., stretching, compressing, or twisting. Our aim is to develop a theoretical framework to describe these topological properties, and to find new ways how to use them in the laboratory and for device applications. We seek to classify topological materials in terms of symmetries and to discover new remarkable examples. Current research priorities focus on the topological properties of nodal-line semimetals, topological metals with nodal planes, quantum magnets, and unconventional superconductors, which we study using both analytical and numerical techniques.



Research Method and Area:
Theoretical
Material Science, Physics

Dr. Aparajita Singha

Emmy Noether research groupleader at the Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research (MPI-FKF)
homepage
Quantum sensing

Research:

  • Quantum sensing experiments using diamond color centers
  • Non-invasive magnetometry and coherent quantum control of single spin-qubits
  • Exploring novel surface-supported spin systems


Research Method and Area:
Experimental
Material Science, Physics

Prof. Dr. Ulrich Starke

Head of the Scientific Facility "Interface Analysis" at the Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research (MPI-FKF)
homepage
Interface Analysis

In our group we study the atomic and electronic structure of solid surfaces and 2D materials. A strong focus of the research is the growth and functionalization of epitaxial graphene on Silicon Carbide. By means of atomic intercalation we can tailor graphene’s electronic properties. We use angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES) to investigate doping and renormalization of the π-bands in graphene – in the home lab and at synchrotron facilities. Structured SiC substrates are the basis to grow epitaxial graphene nanoribbons with a one-dimensional electronic spectrum. The interaction of hetero-epitaxial 2D materials (e.g. transition metal dichalcogenides) and molecular layers with the graphene and its influence on both, the graphene and the 2D layer is studied with a multitude of surface science methods in ultra-high vacuum.



Research Method and Area:
Experimental
Physics

Dr. Lorenzo Tesi

Emmy Noether Junior Group Leader
homepage
Molecular Spin Qubits in Two-Dimensions at THz Frequency

Among the possible systems that exhibit quantum properties, molecular spin qubits (MSQs) are one of the most versatile platforms. At the heart of MSQs is the electronic spin, which can originate from unpaired electrons of organic centers, transition metals or lanthanides. The organic ligand surrounding the qubit can also be engineered to tune the electronic and spin properties. My group focuses on the deposition of MSQs on surfaces and investigation using spectroscopic techniques, in particular magnetic resonance. We also aim to extend the operating frequency range from X-band (9 GHz) to THz (> 100 GHz) using plasmonic metasurface magnetic resonators designed and fabricated by us. The group is therefore very multidisciplinary, at the interface of chemistry and physics, and young, having been established in January 2024



Research Method and Area:
Experimental
Chemistry, Physics

Prof. Dr. Joris van Slageren

Institute of Physical Chemistry, University of Stuttgart
homepage
Modern Magnetic Systems - Molecular Nanomagnetism and Advanced Spectroscopy

We focus on the spectroscopic and magnetic study of molecular nanomagnets. These materials have been proposed for applications in fields ranging from quantum computing to magnetic data storage. We are especially interested in understanding the transition from the microscopic quantum mechanical world of small particles to the macroscopic classical world that we live in. We specialize in advanced spectroscopic studies, including those based on electron spin resonance-related techniques, to investigate the magnetic anisotropy and quantum coherence and their origins.



Research Method and Area:
Experimental
Chemistry, Material Science, Physics

Prof. Dr. Jörg Wrachtrup

Director of the 3rd Physics Institute, University of Stuttgart
homepage
Solid State Quantum Physics and Technology

The group capitalizes on generating synthetic spin systems in solids envisioning their precise quantum optical control. In the course of that research, spin arrays in insulators like e.g. diamond are generated and individual spin states are controlled. The systems provide a means to understand and develop control mechanisms in complex interaction many particle systems. Specifically engineered spin states are used for ultraprecise field measurements. Solid state quantum optics and magneto optics commences via integration of those structures in cavities and plasmonic resonators. Among the major long term research goals is the integration of mechanical and spin systems with the aim to explore the quantum mechanics of hybrid quantum systems with a large degree of freedom and precise unitary control.



Research Method and Area:
Experimental
Physics