The Max Planck-IAS-NTU Center is a new interdisciplinary initiative uniting particle physics, cosmology, and geometry to address fundamental questions about the origin and structure of the Universe. From the tiniest building blocks of matter to the vast scales of cosmic evolution, the Center aims to unlock new insights by bridging these traditionally separate fields. It is a joint initiative of the Max Planck Society (MPG) in Germany, the Institute for Advanced Study (IAS) in Princeton, USA, and the National Taiwan University (NTU) in Taipei, Taiwan.
Recent discoveries have revealed surprising connections between particle interactions, the geometry of spacetime, and the early Universe. By fostering collaboration across disciplines, the Center seeks to shed light on phenomena such as the nature of scattering processes and the initial conditions preceding the hot Big Bang.
The Center will host world-leading researchers, postdoctoral scholars, and students, and will actively involve experts in observational cosmology and astrophysics to complement its theoretical foundations. Its mission is underpinned by a commitment to excellence and inclusive talent recruitment across the globe.
Key activities will include:
- Thematic workshops and international conferences
- Interdisciplinary summer schools
- Long- and short-term collaborative visits
The Center will officially launch in July 2025, supported by an initial five-year funding phase.
Co-directors:
Nima Arkani-Hamed (IAS), Johannes Henn (MPP), Daniel Baumann (NTU)
Deputy co-directors:
Matias Zaldarriaga (IAS), Bernd Sturmfels (MPI-MiS), Yu-tin Huang (NTU)
