Workshop on Quantum Materials in and out of Equilibrium – Computational and Experimental Advances (QMMAT26)

Quantum materials (QM) are at the forefront of condensed matter physics, exhibiting macroscopic quantum phenomena that enable novel phases of matter. These include metal–insulator transitions for neuromorphic devices, magnetic and charge order for data storage, high-temperature superconductivity for energy transport, and topological states for quantum computing. Yet, the complexity that makes QM exciting also presents major challenges. Their emergent behavior stems from the interplay of electrons, lattice vibrations, spins, and photons—especially difficult to model at the atomic scale. These challenges intensify in non-equilibrium settings, such as ultra-fast laser excitation or strong light–matter coupling in cavities, where entirely new functionalities emerge: light-induced superconductivity, Floquet topological phases, and cavity-modified properties. Addressing these frontiers demands an integrated approach—uniting theory, computation, and experiment. This workshop fosters such cross-disciplinary exchange to drive future breakthroughs in QM and their technological applications.

We will bring together global experts working on topics including:

•  Ab initio methods & machine learning: The integration of machine learning with atomistic materials modeling has opened vast opportunities. Foundational models like MACE and PET-MAD have revolutionized the field by providing quantum-accurate forces and energies while reducing computational costs by 3–5 orders of magnitude compared to traditional DFT. These models now enable large-scale simulations previously out of reach. Open challenges include extending these methods to redox-active systems and building models for electronic-structure quantities such as Hamiltonian matrix elements and electron–phonon interactions.
• Theory of quantum materials & spectroscopy: Quantum materials exhibit competing orders and complex microscopic Hamiltonians that lead to rich spectroscopic behavior. Ultra-fast laser excitation and cavity coupling open new paths to controlling their quantum states, with recent theory breakthroughs modeling nonlinear light–matter interactions and multi-scale dynamics. Still, key challenges remain: bridging short and long time scales, connecting ab initio and low-energy models, and advancing the emerging theory of cavity quantum materials.
• Neural quantum states & tensor networks: Neural quantum states and tensor networks offer complementary approaches to the quantum many-body problem, enabling access to high-dimensional, strongly correlated systems. Neural ansätze provide a natural interface between AI and physics, while tensor networks exploit entanglement structure and are particularly powerful in low dimensions. Recent efforts push these methods into real-time and nonequilibrium domains, but further developments are needed to make them predictive tools for realistic quantum materials. Hybrid approaches combining both paradigms hold great promise.
• Experiments on quantum materials: State-of-the-art experimental methods—including time-resolved optical, photoemission, scattering, and scanning probe techniques—are revealing dynamic quantum phases like light-induced superconductivity, Floquet states, and topological polaritons. These discoveries highlight the importance of close theory–experiment interplay for understanding and controlling quantum functionality. This workshop will bring together experimentalists and theorists to jointly shape future directions.

The key aim of this workshop is to assess the state of the art in QM research across these domains and foster cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Important organizatory notes

• Accepted participants will be required to pay a participation fee (400 €).
• Participants have to arrange their own accommodation. We recommend the Radisson Blu Hotel, Bremen, which is conveniently within walking distance (Google Maps) from the workshop venue. We've reserved a block of rooms; use promo code "QMMAT26" when booking.
• The list of speakers is complete now. We encourage you to apply for regular participation with the possibilty of presenting a poster. Final decision/confirmation about the participation will be given latest a few days after the registration deadline. (Expect it around January 20th.)

Workshop venue

Haus der Wissenschaft
Sandstraße 4-5
28195 Bremen