Quantum Universe
Exploring the fundamental laws of the Universe, from quantum particle physics to gravity and cosmology.
The Quantum Universe area brings together gravitation, cosmology, particle physics, and high-energy theory to address fundamental questions about the origin, composition, and evolution of the Universe. It explores the fundamental interactions of nature, quantum field theories, quantum chromodynamics, neutrino physics, and possible extensions of the Standard Model, together with the physics of spacetime, dark matter and dark energy, and the dynamics of the Early and Late Universe. By combining analytical methods, numerical simulations, quantum and field-theory techniques, and comparison with observations, this area connects microscopic fundamental laws with cosmological phenomena and experimental probes, including gravitational waves, cosmological surveys, particle colliders, neutrino experiments, and quantum technologies.
Research lines
Connecting fundamental theory with the observable Universe.
This research line focuses on the theoretical and phenomenological study of the Universe from its earliest stages to its present large-scale dynamics. It includes topics such as the Early Universe, large-scale structure formation, and the late-time accelerated expansion, together with the investigation of topological defects, inflation, dark energy, and dark matter scenarios motivated by particle physics. Particular emphasis is placed on the interplay between cosmology, particle physics, and gravitation, using a wide variety of theoretical methods and observational tests. Through these efforts, this research line seeks to advance our understanding of the origin, composition, and evolution of the Universe, while strengthening the links between fundamental physics and observable cosmological phenomena.
Fundamental interactions and high-energy phenomena explored through particle physics and quantum theories.
The exploration of fundamental interactions at the smallest scales constitutes a central pillar of modern physics. This research line encompasses theoretical and experimental studies in particle physics and high-energy physics, including quantum chromodynamics, neutrino physics, and collider phenomenology. It also addresses advanced frameworks such as supergravity and string theory, aimed at providing a unified description of fundamental forces. In parallel, novel approaches integrating quantum computing into high-energy physics are developed to tackle computationally demanding problems and enhance data analysis techniques. Together, these efforts contribute to a deeper understanding of the structure of matter, the origin of mass, and the fundamental laws governing the Universe.
Quantum effects in gravitation and cosmology across the Early and Late Universe.
This research line focuses on quantum aspects of gravity and cosmology, using semiclassical methods within a broad range of high-energy physics frameworks relevant to quantum gravity. It encompasses the study of quantum effects in the Early Universe, including corrections to inflation and the formation of primordial black holes, as well as possible quantum phenomena in the Late Universe. It also addresses the role of quantum backreaction in gravitational and cosmological systems. Particular attention is devoted to connecting fundamental theory with observation through the study of gravitational wave production and other multi-messenger signatures arising from a wide variety of astrophysical and cosmological sources.