We probe the quantum structure of spacetime. Because this is a challenging endeavor, our strategy is to pursue several complementary research lines simultaneously.
First, we probe quantum gravity theoretically, by developing several approaches to quantum gravity, namely asymptotically safe gravity, causal sets and tensor models. The rationale behind working on more than approach at the same time is that we believe that a convergence of diverse perspectives can trigger breakthroughs. More concretely, different approaches have solved different problems of quantum gravity theory and thus we hope that by developing these approaches further and discovering points of convergence, we can solve some of the mysteries of quantum gravity.
Second, we aim to probe quantum gravity observationally. This is a challenging goal, because the expected scale of quantum gravity - the Planck scale - is many orders of magnitude away from scales that can be probed directly through experiments or observations. Thus, the challenge is to develop lever arms that translate Planck-scale predictions of quantum gravity to predictions at experimentally accessible scales. We have identified such lever arms in particle physics, black holes and cosmology. Thus, we work on the interplay of quantum gravity with matter in and beyond the Standard Model of particle physics. We also explore the structure and image features of black holes beyond General Relativity. Finally, we develop models of dark matter and dark energy that is compatible with quantum gravity.
If you are interested in learning more about our research, check out Astrid Eichhorn's talks on youtube and on PIRSA.
Our research is and has been funded by the DFG, the Villum Foundation, the Humboldt Foundation, the DAAD.
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