University Physics Fundamentals

Sander Otte, a full professor of Quantum Nanoscience at Delft University of Technology, is at the forefront of exploring the boundary between the quantum and classical worlds12. Leading his own research group, Otte investigates atomic-scale phenomena using low-temperature scanning tunneling microscopy, with a particular focus on the transition between quantum nature and classical manifestation of matter23. His work involves carefully manipulating individual atoms, a process he describes as a craft, to study fundamental laws at the smallest scale possible1. Otte's research contributes to the development of new materials for quantum computers and other quantum technologies1. As an educator, he teaches both quantum and classical mechanics in the Applied Physics program and is involved in a Pre-University Physics MOOC, aiming to bridge the gap between high school and academic-level physics education

Jeroen Kalkman is an Assistant Professor of Imaging Physics at Delft University of Technology, where he leads a research group focused on optical tomography. With a background spanning atomic and molecular physics, industrial research, and biomedical engineering, Kalkman brings diverse expertise to his work developing novel optical instrumentation. His research aims to advance optical tomography for applications in process control, systems biology, cultural heritage preservation, and clinical diagnostics. At TU Delft's Faculty of Applied Sciences, Kalkman teaches courses on computational science and optical imaging in the Applied Physics program. He is also involved in efforts to bridge the gap between high school and university-level physics education through a pre-university physics MOOC. Kalkman's interdisciplinary approach combines physics, engineering, and biomedical applications to push the boundaries of optical imaging technology.

Liedewij Laan is an Associate Professor of Bionanoscience at Delft University of Technology, where she leads a research group focused on evolutionary biophysics. With a background spanning applied physics, experimental biophysics, and systems biology from the University of Twente, Leiden University, and Harvard University, Laan brings an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the interplay between cellular processes and evolutionary dynamics. Her research combines experimental techniques and computational modeling to study how physical laws governing cellular components influence long-term evolutionary outcomes. Laan teaches courses on physics, cell biology, and systems biology in the Applied Physics and Nanobiology programs. Her work aims to provide insights into evolutionary processes with societal relevance, such as cancer progression and drug resistance. Through her involvement in the Pre-University Physics MOOC, Laan seeks to demonstrate how fundamental physics serves as a foundation for innovative technologies in the life sciences.

Timon Idema serves as Associate Professor in the Department of Bionanoscience at TU Delft, where he leads groundbreaking research in theoretical biophysics while directing the MSc Nanobiology program. After completing his MSc degrees in physics and mathematics and PhD in theoretical biophysics from Leiden University, followed by postdoctoral research on biological systems mechanics at the University of Pennsylvania, he established his theoretical biophysics group at TU Delft in 2012. His research combines mathematical modeling and simulations to investigate complex biological structures across multiple scales, from protein interactions to population dynamics, working within the prestigious Kavli Institute of Nanoscience Delft. His contributions to education have earned him the 2019 Teacher of the Year award and the 2020 J.B. Westerdijkprize, reflecting his excellence in teaching courses ranging from biophysics and quantum mechanics to classical mechanics and general relativity. Through his leadership of the theoretical biophysics group and role as program director, he continues to advance understanding of biological processes through quantitative experimentation and modeling while fostering the next generation of scientists at the intersection of nanophysics and biology.