The University of Concepción in Chile has awarded a honorary doctorate to quantum physicist Peter Zoller for his scientific achievements in quantum optics and quantum information. The honor was also in recognition of his long-standing ties with the Latin American university.
In recognition of his scientific contributions and his close ties with the University of Concepción (UdeC), Peter Zoller was awarded an honorary doctorate on December 5. The Rector of the University of Concepción, Carlos Saavedra Rubilar, highlighted Peter Zoller's many achievements and the close relationship he has maintained with the university for almost three decades in front of the university's staff and students. “Peter Zoller has always been in close contact with our university. He has trained UdeC students in Innsbruck and contributed significantly to the development of quantum optics and quantum information at our institution. With this award, he is now officially part of our university community,” said the Rector. In his speech, Saavedra highlighted the importance of quantum simulations in fields such as pharmacy and emphasized Peter Zoller's ability to make connections between quantum optics and quantum information.
Long-standing ties
At the ceremony, Peter Zoller expressed his gratitude for being awarded an honorary doctorate and recalled the close ties he has maintained with UdeC over the years. “I have met many people here, scientists with whom personal friendships have developed from academic relationships. I have often visited this university, and students from here have come to Innsbruck to study with us. Today, it's like a family reunion today and I am now part of a larger family,” said Zoller happily. The physicist emphasized the potential of quantum science to change society and also highlighted Chile's role as a catalyst for innovation in the quantum field in Latin America. “Chile has very talented students and enormous potential, both for the future of the country and in the field of basic research. As I mentioned in my presentation, basic research ultimately leads to quantum technologies, such as start-ups and new tech companies. In this context, I see many opportunities for Chile to build something at the intersection between basic research and application, which could also have an economic impact,” he added.
Following honors from the University of Amsterdam (2012) and the University of Colorado Boulder (2019), this is already the third honorary doctorate for the Innsbruck quantum physicist.