Q & A with Professor Anton Zeilinger

Professor Anton Zeilinger
Photo: Jacqueline Godany

Looking back on your career, what inspired you to pursue science, and what led you to focus specifically on quantum mechanics?

I was always curious about how things work and excited when I found out. Quantum physics fascinated me from day one because of its immense mathematical beauty.

Your experiments with quantum entanglement have fundamentally changed our understanding of reality. Was there a particular moment in your research that felt like a breakthrough?

A particular moment that felt like a breakthrough was our realization of a novel source for entanglement.

Looking ahead, what advice would you give to young researchers and students who aspire to contribute to the field of quantum science?

“Follow your own excitement and inspiration” would be something I would advise young researchers and students to do.

Having spent time as a researcher at MIT in Boston, how did your experience there shape your perspective on the differences between Austrian and American approaches to scientific research?

In Austria there is more understanding and openness for fundamental ideas independent of possible applications. In the US, on the other hand, there are more discussions going on all the time between scientists.

The United Nations proclaimed 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology. What about the future of quantum science and technology excites you?

I am excited about the new insights into fundamental questions this technological development will bring us.

Photo: IQOQI Wien