Physics – from quantum particles to the universe
How are galaxies, stars and planets created in our gigantic universe? And what forces in the quantum world affect the smallest constituents of matter? Our researchers are contributing pieces of the puzzle and are also involved in the quest for knowledge about dark matter and new elements, as well as in development work at the MAX IV Laboratory.
Stars and planets of the Milky Way
In astrophysics, our researchers study how galaxies and stars form and evolve. There has long been a particular focus on our own galaxy – the Milky Way. The aim is to understand the Milky Way from an evolutionary, chemical and dynamic perspective.
Revolutionary mapping by the Gaia satellite and advanced space telescopes on the ground provide a constant flow of new data on the millions of stars making up the Milky Way. The major international Gaia project was originally proposed by a Lund University astronomer, and our researchers are still deeply involved in this space mission.
Our astrophysicists are also researching the processes that give rise to the formation of planets. For example, what actually happened when our own planet was formed from initially very small dust particles and grains of gravel floating around in space? Researchers are also interested in distant exoplanets, i.e. planets outside our solar system.
Standard model, elementary particles and atomic nuclei
In particle physics, our researchers are looking for answers to questions about the smallest constituents of matter and the forces that affect them. This includes seeking a more complete understanding beyond the standard model, which, despite its accuracy, is not sufficient to explain the fundamental principles that govern the formation of our world. For example, our particle physicists are also trying to understand the nature of dark matter in the universe.
And in nuclear physics, the focus is on the stability and structure of atomic nuclei. Here too, our research has helped in the search for new elements. Work in both particle physics and nuclear physics is done through experimental studies and the development of mathematical theories and models. Many of the experiments in nuclear and particle physics are carried out at international research facilities such as CERN.
From synchrotron light to mathematical physics
Another area of research is synchrotron light physics. In this case, our researchers investigate the electronic and structural properties of surfaces and interfaces. The aim is to understand the processes that govern the relationship between the geometric position of atoms and the electronic properties of micro, nano and quantum structures.
Researchers here also study mesoscopic systems, i.e. the interface between our macroscopic world and the microcosm of atoms characterised by the laws of quantum mechanics. The research is closely linked to applied problems in areas such as semiconductor structures, catalytic materials and artificial material components, and also has close ties with the MAX IV Laboratory.
Another area of research is in mathematical physics. Here our researchers work mainly in the field of quantum mechanics. Research includes theoretical nuclear structure physics, nanophysics, time-dependent and non-equilibrium phenomena, quantum information, atomic theory and material modelling.