Moritz Fischer

9 August 2021

Moritz Fischer grew up in Worms, a city in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. In 2018, he received his Master’s degree at the University of Heidelberg. Fischer’s thesis was about galaxy formation and evolution. More specifically, he studied ex-situ and in-situ stars in the cosmological simulation suite IllustrisTNG.

What is the topic of your research?

I am part of the High-energy astrophysics group of Prof. Marcus Brüggen; he and Kai Schmidt-Hoberg are my supervisors. My PhD project is about particle-like dark matter models with self-interactions. We study their effects on astrophysical scales employing N-body simulations. In particular, we are interested in merging systems, for example, galaxy clusters like the famous Bullet Cluster. Thanks to a new numerical scheme, we are able to investigate self-interaction cross-sections that favour small scattering angles.

What fascinates you about your research focus?

I am fascinated by the mechanics of the Universe that drive the formation of large structures like galaxies and how we are able to reproduce them numerically. In models of self-interacting dark matter, forces between particles limited to very tiny scales can impact structures that are incredibly large. Nevertheless, we are able to reproduce these mechanics in a supercomputer with the help of statistical physics and numerics, bridging almost 30 orders of magnitude.

What do you like about the cluster Quantum Universe?

I like the diversity of Quantum Universe. Its various disciplines and outstanding people create a stimulating and motivating research environment. For example, I was positively surprised by the variety of topics in the Quantum Universe Colloquium. Aside from that, I enjoy the QU Days, where you get to know people, have interesting discussions, and some variety thanks to more entertaining sessions.

What do you like to do in your free-time?

In my spare time, I enjoy riding my bicycle. Besides, I am involved in various activities of extracurricular youth education and related things. I also love philosophy, especially Kant’s work.