Fluctuation-Induced Phenomena in Complex Systems

The study of fluctuation-induced phenomena requires an all-around perspective on how different areas of physics (e.g. thermodynamics, condensed matter theory, quantum field theory, atomic physics, quantum optics etc.) merge in the microscopic and mesoscopic world. From a theoretical point of view, combining the results of several research fields into a coherent and reliable framework can be challenging. Although each individual aspect might rely on a mature theory, the interfacing with other topics can quickly lead to difficulties but can also lead to novel interesting effects. Experimentally, despite the fact that modern techniques have allowed for a careful investigation of several of these interactions, numerous challenges appear as soon as one looks for higher accuracy or moves away from standard configurations.

The aim of the seminar is to gather leading researchers working on different aspects of fluctuation-induced phenomena in order to assess the current status of this rapidly developing interdisciplinary field, to discuss future developments and to foster the exchange of concepts and techniques. The seminar targets students, postdocs and young researchers working experimentally and/or theoretically in this exciting domain of research, specifically including the subtopics

• Casimir interactions
• van der Waals interactions
• Quantum and classical thermodynamics
• Dynamical nonequilibrium systems
• Nanophotonics systems