16 April 2025

Photo: Thorsten Buss

Thorsten Buss is a PhD student under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Gregor Kasieczka, working on “Augmenting Calorimeter Shower Simulations using Generative Machine Learning.” He comes from Freiburg im Breisgau and completed his master's degree at the University of Heidelberg in 2022, with a thesis titled “Anomaly Detection for LHC Jets.”

What is the topic of your research? 

Collider experiments like the LHC produce vast amounts of data. We need to simulate comparable amounts of data to compare measurements with theory predictions. Without improvements to the simulation chain, soon, computational needs are expected to grow beyond available resources. My project aims to speed up the simulation of detector response to high-energy particles using generative machine learning. To do so, I am developing new generative models, training them on simulated data, and testing their fidelity and speedups in comparison to the current simulation chain.

What fascinates you about your research focus? 

Developing new generative models based on cutting-edge machine learning paradigms and applying them to real-world problems in high-energy physics is an inspiring challenge. I have always been fascinated by fundamental physics, as well as a range of topics in computer science and machine learning. My project allows me to combine these two fields and address acute problems in high-energy physics.  

What do you like about the cluster Quantum Universe? 

The QU Days provide a great overview of the research conducted in the cluster. Meeting other PhD students and postdocs there leads to interesting discussions and new ideas. The QU Graduate Weeks give the opportunity to deepen knowledge in relevant topics and learn new skills.

What do you like to do in your free time? 

One of my favorite hobbies is traveling. In recent years, I have been to the Arctic and Antarctic regions to observe the wildlife, landscapes, and the northern lights. I also love biking and bouldering with friends. I sing in the DESY choir once a week where we sing a wide range of songs from classical music to pop music.