Welcome to the University of Freiburg: Dr. Simone Biondini, Junior Professor of Theoretical Physics
Freiburg, 17/04/2025
Dr. Simone Biondini was appointed Junior Professor of Theoretical Physics on April 1, 2025. In this interview, he talks about what particularly excites him about the universe, what topics keep him busy outside of research and what he is particularly looking forward to in Freiburg besides the sun and vineyards.
What inspires you about your research?
I’ve always been fascinated by the big questions we ask when we look up at the night sky: What is the universe made of? What holds it all together? Thanks to powerful telescopes and new ways of exploring the distant past of the cosmos, we’ve discovered something astonishing: about 95% of the universe is made up of mysterious components we still don’t fully understand. Dark matter appears to make up the bulk of the universe’s matter content. Even more puzzling is dark energy, which accounts for most of its energy and drives its ongoing expansion. This invisible yet essential side of the universe is what fuels my research and keeps my curiosity alive every day.
If your research offers starting points: What solutions do you find in your research for present and future challenges?
My research is primarily fundamental, but in a highly technological society, we still need individuals trained to think deeply and reason critically about the basic laws of nature. Studying dark matter and dark energy challenges us to develop new methods and rethink established knowledge, while inspiring and educating the next generation to approach problems with curiosity and rigor.
What would you like to pass on to your students and what do you yourself take away from teaching?
II want to share my passion for physics with my students. Teaching and learning physics is one of the best ways to stay curious, grounded in the real world, and humble. I also hope to convey that major scientific breakthroughs often come from collaboration and teamwork.
What topics are you currently most interested in personally outside of your research?
Outside of research, I’m increasingly concerned about the misuse of artificial intelligence, particularly its influence on younger generations who are still learning how to think critically and independently. That’s why I believe delivering engaging lectures is a key responsibility for academics. I also care deeply about how science and scientists are perceived. Theoretical physicists are often seen as doing something disconnected from the real world. But in fact, many of today’s technologies are grounded in physical laws that were originally discovered purely out of curiosity about how the universe works.
What are you particularly looking forward to in Freiburg?
Having already lived in Germany during my PhD in Munich, I developed a deep appreciation for both the culture and the beer! I’m especially excited to now be in Freiburg, famously known as the sunniest city in German. I certainly won’t complain about a bit of extra sunshine and beautiful green hills with vineyards. I’m already enjoying the vibrant and welcoming community at the physics department, where I am sure I can continue to grow both personally and socially. For sure, it is time for me to learn German properly!