Quantum Foundations

Cartoon depiction of quantum foundations questionsQuantum foundations is the study of quantum theory, which in turn is a successful mathematical formalism that makes predictions about interactions between particles, light, atoms, etc. We still do not understand many things about this formalism – why it works, if it is self-consistent, what the mathematics is telling us about reality, and whether it might one day be seen as an incomplete part of a deeper theory. Quantum foundations aims to address these questions, informed by experimental results, the historical development of quantum theory, and the intersection between physics and philosophy. In recent decades, such foundational work has led to a deeper understanding of the practical applications of quantum entanglement, a field that has become known as quantum information. For further information and to learn about research opportunities, contact Ken Wharton.