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In extreme conditions, reality becomes subject to outlandish quantum phenomena, governed less by a solid observation of where things are than by probabilistic calculations of where they might be. From this ostensible chaos quantum physicists extract an enhanced understanding of the universe and, miraculously, usable technology. 

“I consider myself first and foremost a quantum physicist — it’s the branch of physics most closely aligned with my research,” says Anton Zasedatelev, newly appointed Assistant Professor in Experimental Quantum Physics at Aalto University’s Department of Applied Physics.

Zasedatelev completed his PhD researching molecular spectroscopy and nonlinear optics in 2016. From there he went to postdoc positions in the UK and Austria and during that time was enamored by quantum optics—the study of how light and matter interact. His current research interests bifurcate. 

Fast-processing optical signals with the least amount of energy

One half sees him focus on how quantum phenomena emerge and evolve over time in collective states of many particles such as Bose-Einstein condensates. These condensates are usually gases composed of a class of particles called bosons.

“I’m interested in Bose-Einstein condensates that can survive very high temperatures like room temperature. I study whether these states demonstrate quantum phenomena protected against large thermal fluctuations and, if so, whether they can be used for real-life applications.”

Turns out they might. The interest stems from Zasedatelev’s past work where he was part of a team in England that demonstrated how a transistor device can be operated with a massless wave-like light particle called a polariton (itself also a type of boson) instead of an electron like current computers.

“Energy-wise it would mean the lowest fundamental amount of energy required for switching the logic states of a device. If you have a transistor that can be controlled with a single photon at the gate, you can potentially save vast amounts of energy.  This is crucial for high-performance computing, for example, where the fast-growing energy consumption (sometimes called the speed-energy bottleneck) is a real challenge, especially at hyperscale data centers. At Aalto I plan to make  We are also teaming up with Finnish research branch of Microsoft, Picophotonics and Reflekron to make it happen.”

Zasedatelev’s other main focus is quantum phenomena related to the motion of large masses. As he explains it:

"I'm working on trapping macroscopic particles—solid objects large enough to be seen with a standard optical microscope—and studying their collective motion in an ultra-high vacuum. My main focus is on the interplay between their external degrees of freedom, such as center-of-mass motion in all three dimensions, and their internal states, which reflect their solid-state character."

Due to their large mass and high density, these particles offer a unique platform for exploring fundamental questions—most notably how gravity behaves at the quantum level. 

"By applying advanced techniques from quantum optics, we can perform ultra-precise measurements of the particles' motion and even steer them into desired quantum states. Beyond the fundamental interest, these systems also hold great promise for practical applications. Their extreme sensitivity enables force detection at the yoctonewton (10⁻²⁴ N) scale, which makes for an exceptional force sensor," Zasedatelev says.

Right tools and right people

The newly minted Professor’s next steps are clear: establish a leading experimental quantum optics lab within his research group Macroscopic Quantum Optics (MQO). With a strong track record behind him, Prof. Zasedatelev recognizes Aalto as the place where he can push his research to new heights.

"I’m grateful for the trust and enthusiasm my colleagues at Aalto have shown toward my ideas. This is a place where ambitious and unconventional research can truly flourish—thanks to the academic freedom, state-of-the-art labs, and comprehensive support available."

Even as a busy new professor, Zasedatelev emphasizes a long-term, sustainable approach—not only in his research, but also in how he leads his group.

“To achieve ambitious scientific goals, you need endurance, sharp focus, and to keep your motivation high. That’s why looking after your wellbeing is just as important as running your experiments,” he explains. “I consider work–life balance a core value of our team. Personally, I often take an hour during lunch for a jog along the beautiful coastline near campus. It clears the mind and recharges the body, I can highly recommend it.”

Groundbreaking science requires both advanced infrastructure and the exceptional minds. Prof. Zasedatelev found an ideal fusion of both at Aalto.