Basic Research Needs Open Exchange, Mutual Learning

"Quantum physics holds the key to our future, though its full impact remains uncharted," said Professor Klaus Richter, president of the German Physical Society (DPG) and a condensed matter physicist at the University of Regensburg, during an interview at the 88th DPG Annual Meeting and DPG Spring Meeting. He emphasized that advancing basic research requires nurturing young scientists and fostering global collaboration — cornerstones of scientific progress.

Potential of quantum physics

Research at the microscopic level often drives technological innovation, leading to high-precision measurement instruments and new materials. Without quantum physics, renewable energy sources like photovoltaics would be unimaginable. "We are currently in a very exciting phase, with significant progress being made in quantum computing," Richter said. Future applications of quantum innovations are vast and still largely unpredictable.

Founded in 1845, the DPG is the world's oldest and largest physical society. The 88th DPG Annual Meeting and Spring Conference, held from March to early April 2025 across Bonn, Cologne, Regensburg, and G？ttingen, attracted over 9,000 researchers worldwide. The Bonn meeting alone featured more than 1,400 distributions on fundamental quantum phenomena and their applications. "I'd say nearly 90 percent of the presentations and lectures are quantum-related," Richter said, adding that,"They reflect the latest advancements in atomic and molecular physics, quantum optics and photonics."

When asked about the current state of quantum computing, Richter drew a historical parallel. "Smartphones didn't appear overnight. Seventy years ago, the first electronic computers filled entire rooms. If you'd asked scientists back then whether those machines represented computing, they'd have said yes — that's just how it was."

He added that today's smartphones are far more powerful than 1950s supercomputers. Similarly, quantum computers won't suddenly land on our desks and they'll evolve in ways people can't yet foresee.

Nurturing young talent

Reflecting on the DPG's long history, Richter highlighted the importance of fostering young researchers. "Gathering thousands of physicists annually is a monumental achievement. For me, these conferences are the DPG's engine. With nearly 10,000 attendees at the four DPGSpring Meetings, it's a hub for brainstorming and a major draw for young scientists." As of January 2025, the DPG had 50,688 members, with an average age of 42.4. Many are PhD students, ensuring a vibrant, forward-looking community.

"We were all young once. That's why empowering the next generation is vital. Research thrives on their energy. What's special about our conferences is that everyone is here, from students to Nobel laureates. Young researchers meet pioneers, engage with cutting-edge work and experience the scientific process firsthand," Richter said.

"DPG's student members are exceptionally active," he added. "They deliver most presentations, especially at the DPG Spring Meeting. "

Thinking long-term

This year's DPG Annual Meeting featured Ghana as its guest country. The workshop "Quantum Science and Beyond: Ghana and Germany" facilitated exchanges on research projects, quantum physics, youth training, and climate studies.

The collaboration aims to help Ghana access emerging quantum technologies while cultivating skilled young scientists. "We invited a Global South partner to strengthen ties with Africa," he added. "Smaller conferences in Africa are also planned to deepen scientific links between Europe and Africa."

Richter stressed that fundamental science is inherently international. "We all speak the same language: quantum physics, which does matter. But beyond that, science connects cultures. Understanding a culture fosters understanding of a nation — that's what endures," he said.

Upholding scientific cooperation

On China's physics research, Richter said China has always maintained outstanding research teams, and this strength has grown significantly in recent years. He also emphasized that the exchange of information and ideas must be founded on principles of fairness and equality. "From a long-term perspective, mutual learning is absolutely essential, which is the very essence of scientific exchange," he said.

From his perspective, every effort should be made to sustain this academic dialogue, particularly in fundamental sciences. While healthy competition is an inherent part of scientific progress, it must always remain fair. The scientific community needs to establish common rules. For instance, ensuring data exchange is reciprocal and preventing any misuse of shared knowledge.

The DPG and the Chinese Physical Society have a cooperation agreement. "The heart of collaboration is personal connection. Successful scientific partnerships are built on trust and often on friendship," Richter said.

The author is a correspondent for Science and Technology Daily based in Germany.

Source: Science and Technology Daily