11 December 2024

Photo: Tom Krokotsch

Tom Krokotsch comes from Hamburg. After completing his Master's degree at the University of Cambridge in 2023, he began his doctorate in Quantum Universe at the II Institute for Theoretical Physics under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Gudrid Moortgat-Pick with research into gravitational waves.

What is the topic of your research?

I am working in a group where we are planning to use radio frequency cavities to search for gravitational wave signals at previously unexplored high frequencies. One part of my thesis is to complete our theoretical framework of the detection principle so that our prototype can soon have its first successful run. The remainder of my time is dedicated to developing an improved detection concept. This includes optimising the detection of high frequency gravitational waves for different models and operating the detector beyond the standard quantum limit.

What fascinates you about your research focus?

Gravitational waves have only recently become an avenue through which we can uncover previously inaccessible details about the universe. However, being sensitive to these elusive space time perturbations requires every trick in the book that modern physics has to offer. What I love the most is the wide range of research fields this requires, from numerical relativity to RF engineering and quantum physics.

What do you like about the cluster Quantum Universe?

I think the QU Days are a wonderful opportunity to foster connections within the cluster and to present my own research. For me, a highlight was the QU Graduate Week since all the topics were tailored to the QU research areas and it was nice to have a few days dedicated to the QU students.

What do you like to do in your free time?

I love to play the piano and travel when possible. Recently I’ve been trying my hand at growing vegetables in the garden (with room for improvement).