Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin - Mathematisch-Naturwissen­schaft­liche Fakultät - Experimentelle Elementarteilchenphysik

Dr. Ullrich Schwanke

I am an experimental (astro-)particle physicist at Humboldt University and member of the Experimental High Energy Group of Prof. Dr. Cigdem Issever.

My current research focusses on the construction and operation of high-precision ion clocks as a tool for searches for physics beyond the standard model.

Hint for students: At the moment, we have an opening for a thesis on a fiber-optic Michelson interferometer. You can also check this poster for bachelor and master theses.

 

Current Research
High-precision ion clocks as quantum sensors and searches for ultra-light dark matter

Collaboration partners:

S. Worm (DESY, HU), M. Krutzik (HU, FBH)

Cross-Cutting Interests

  • Statistical methods for data analysis
  • Monte Carlo simulations and pattern recognition
  • Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems for (astro-)particle physics experiments
  • Design and development of SCADA and reconstruction software
  • Optics (telescopes, lasers, frequency combs)

Coordination Roles

  
Scientific Workshops/Lecture Series
  • Software coordinator for the MST Structure Project of the Cherenkov Telescope Observatory (2012-2023)
  • Coordinator of the gamma-ray astronomy effort in the group of Prof. T. Lohse (2007-2021)
  • Convenor of the H.E.S.S. Exotics/Astroparticle Working Group (2009-2013)
  • Member of the H.E.S.S. observation committee

Previous Research Projects and Experiments

  • Simulation of trigger electronics for Cherenkov cameras; calibration (mirror alignment, telescope pointing) and control software for the Cherenkov Telescope Observatory
  • Galactic science and indirect dark matter searches (Galactic centre, dwarf galaxies) with the H.E.S.S. observatory in Namibia
  • Studies on the strong interaction (colour-suppressed B-meson decays) with the BaBar experiment at SLAC
  • Development of higher-level trigger algorithms and control software for the HERA-B experiment at DESY
  • Construction and test of honeycomb drift chambers for HERA-B

Curriculum Vitae

  • Since 2007: Staff scientist at HU
  • 2003-2006: Postdoc at HU
  • 2001-2002: Research scholar at UC San Diego
  • 1997-2001: PhD at DESY (Zeuthen)