About the Center

The Center for Optical Quantum Technologies

The Center for Optical Quantum Technologies (ZOQ) is on the Forschungscampus Hamburg-Bahrenfeld which encompasses research institutions of the Helmholtz Society and the University of Hamburg.

The foundation stone has been laid on August 21st, 2009 and the center became fully operational in 2011. Meanwhile it is an integral and important part of the Hamburg photon science activities. Eight state-of-the-art research laboratories, specially designed and optimized for quantum-gas and laser physics experiments, office space and open areas for extensive and creative discussions belong to the infrastructure of the ZOQ.

Research at ZOQ addresses a diversity of topics on modern quantum physics, ranging from ultracold quantum gases and matter wave physics to hybrid quantum systems. Advanced laser light sources are developed and applied to provide the quantum optical tools for the discovery, design and manipulation of new states of quantum matter. The theory division of the center develops novel techniques and methodologies to describe complex quantum matter and applies them in particular to ultracold quantum gases.

A close collaboration of theory and experiment provides a great benefit to the research at ZOQ. A rich visitor and guest programme as well as a workshop programme on specific hot topics in quantum physics represent key ingredients for the scientific exchange with leading institutions on quantum research and technology all over the world. Research at ZOQ lives from a stimulating and vibrant atmosphere in a truly international environment.