Christopher Wächtler, new postdoctoral researcher at ICMM thanks to a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowship

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Christopher Wächtler is a new postdoctoral researcher at ICMM thanks to a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Fellowship of the European Commission. He is now a member of the 'Novel Platforms and Nano-Devices for Quantum Simulation and Computation' group led by Prof. Gloria Platero.

Where do you come from?

Before joining ICMM, I was a postdoc at the University of California, Berkeley, where I worked with Prof. Joel Moore. My position was funded through a Walter Benjamin Fellowship of the German Research Foundation (DFG).

What have you worked on so far?

My research has primarily focused on the theoretical investigation of driven-dissipative many-body phenomena. This includes studying collective dynamics such as quantum synchronization and exploring transport phenomena of quantum particles driven out of equilibrium.

What will you work on? With whom?

I will be collaborating with Prof. Gloria Platero to deepen our understanding of quantum synchronization, particularly the effects of periodically driving a system and how its dynamics can synchronize with external influences. Together, we aim to establish a comprehensive theoretical framework for this phenomenon.

Why did you choose ICMM?

I met Prof. Gloria Platero a few years ago during my PhD defense, and since then, I’ve wanted to work with her. We initiated a project on quantum synchronization, and expanding on that idea seemed like a great opportunity. Additionally, ICMM offers a fantastic environment, with its strong focus on material science experiments. As a condensed matter physicist by training, I am excited to join the vibrant research community at ICMM.

And a personal touch: any hobbies? What would you like to contribute to the institute?

I’ve recently gotten back into sports, particularly weightlifting, and I hope to take up running again as well. Beyond research, I look forward to contributing to ICMM’s diversity initiatives. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, I am eager to actively participate in fostering inclusivity within the institute.