The research at the institute in the field of the physics of complex systems ranges from classical to quantum physics and focuses on three main areas, which correspond to the activities in the three divisions. The division Electronic Correlations (P. Fulde) studies the quantum physics of condensed matter. The nonlinear dynamics of atoms, molecules and clusters is studied with the help of semiclassical methods in the division Finite Systems (J.-M. Rost). Tools of classical statistical physics are applied to biological systems in the division Biological Physics (F. Jülicher). One permanent research group, five temporary ones, two junior research groups and one Emmy-Noether group strengthen and interpolate the research in and between the divisions on such topics as nonlinear time series analysis, quantum chemistry, mesoscopic systems, intense laser fields in media, pattern formation, physics of soft matter, physics of olfaction, and electronic structure of finite systems. Additional research support is provided by Distinguished PKS postdoctoral fellows and guest scientists focussing on topics as Bose-Einstein condensation and nonequilibrium statistics. The institute hosts a large visitors progam with about 60 guest scientist positions (each for up to two years), and a large scale seminar program with about 10 seminars per year. Each seminar lasts about 4 weeks and highlights embedded workshops. The aim is to boost new promising research directions and to provide faster contact of young scientists with the rapidly evolving spectrum of new research topics in the broad field of the physics of complex systems.

• Max Planck Society