Participants of the Quantum Connections Summer School, gathered outside Högberga Gård
From June 9th – June 21st over 80 researchers and students of quantum physics gathered for the annual Quantum Connections summer school in Stockholm. The school is a result of collaboration between Nordita, Fysikum (the Physics Department of Stockholm University) and several other international partner institutions including the TDLI Institute and the Wilczek Quantum Center in Shanghai. “The name ‘Connections’ besides being a scientific term, also reflects the school’s role as a meeting point between East and West,” says Antti Niemi, one of the organizers. “Since Nordita’s founding during the Cold War, enabling researchers to meet and discuss science across geopolitical borders has been an important mission, and one that we are very happy to be able to continue”.
This year’s edition of the school coincided with a special anniversary: 100 years of quantum science. Several Nobel laureates were attending, adding significant scientific weight to the program. The summer school was initiated by Nobel laureate Frank Wilczek, who is affiliated with Fysikum, and is organized by Nordita, drawing on the institute’s extensive experience of hosting international research events. Together, the institutions have created a place where young researchers can learn from and interact with leading names in the field, and with each other, in an informal and intellectually stimulating environment.
“The idea has always been for Nordita and Fysikum to work closely together to build a strong theoretical environment in Stockholm,” says Hans Hansson, professor emeritus at Fysikum and former director of Nordita. “Quantum Connections is a good example of this: a school that brings together students from all over the world, thanks also to the collaboration with strong partners in China like the TDLI Institute and the Wilczek Quantum Center. This kind of international exchange is really important, especially in quantum science where China plays an increasingly prominent role.”
Hansson also notes that the school receives a high number of applications, with only about one in six applicants accepted. This year’s edition has featured a particularly strong lineup of lecturers, and the students he’s spoken to have all been very enthusiastic… “and not just because of the delicious food and the sea view,” he adds with a smile.
Tobias Ekholm, Director of the Mittag-Leffler Institute and professor at Uppsala University, who visited for a day, agrees “It’s a fantastic lineup where many of the lecturers have helped shape and define the field of quantum physics. It’s a unique opportunity for the students, not just to attend the lectures but to interact with the speakers throughout the week. They stay for several days or even weeks, which makes real scientific exchange possible beyond the formal sessions.” When asked whether this kind of event puts Sweden and Stockholm on the map for quantum science, he answers without hesitation: “Absolutely.”
The school is held at Högberga Gård on Lidingö, an island just outside of Stockholm. The beautiful tranquil setting makes for a laid back atmosphere where it is easy to discuss and socialize.
“The setting at Högberga Gård makes interaction easy. We organize social activities, and the fact that it’s a bit secluded encourages participants to spend time together. It’s small and personal so you can share coffee breaks or even relax in the pool with a Nobel laureate,” says Elizabeth Yang, local organizer at Nordita.
Frank Wilczek giving a lecture at the Quantum Connections Summer School
Participants of the Summer School discussing during lunch break, enjoying the sea view.
