22. Concepts, Chaos, and Cluster Coordination: Alex Altland

Show notes

In this episode of ML4Q&A, Chris and Mira talk with Alex Altland, theoretical physicist and ML4Q member, about the tension between deep scientific thinking and the administrative reality of coordinating the renewal proposal of ML4Q.

As one of the designated spokespersons for ML4Q’s next funding phase, Alex shares behind-the-scenes insights into managing this large-scale effort — just days before the final decision in May 2025.

We also explore his enduring fascination with foundational concepts in physics, spanning quantum field theory, quantum chaos, and topological matter. Alongside his research, Alex reflects on the importance of conceptual clarity in teaching, textbook writing, and his path from chemistry (and a brief detour into business consulting) to becoming a deeply theoretical physicist.

00:00:00 Intro 00:01:32 Mentors and idols in early career 00:03:07 On being a conceptual physicist 00:06:56 On becoming a professor 00:12:20 First thoughts on quantum information theory 00:15:07 Quantum information theory vs. condensed matter physics 00:17:42 On the impact of quantum computation in physical sciences 00:22:49 On the structure of Clusters of Excellence 00:25:23 New projects within ML4Q – the transmon story 00:31:21 Working on the renewal proposal of ML4Q 00:42:45 On writing a textbook on Condensed Matter Quantum Field Theory 00:49:32 What about universality? 00:53:50 Discussing non-standard symmetry and ongoing Majorana research 01:02:26 On teaching mathematics