Novel Perspectives in Non-Hermitian Physics:
From Condensed Matter to Optical and Beyond
October 29 – 31, 2025, APCTP, Pohang, Korea
October 29 – 31, 2025, APCTP, Pohang, Korea
Scope of the workshop
Over the past decades, the exploration of quantum systems has led to groundbreaking discoveries that challenge traditional paradigms, revealing phenomena that transcend conventional Hermitian frameworks. Non-Hermitian physics, which deals with systems characterized by complex, gain-and-loss mechanisms, has emerged as a powerful approach to understanding a wide array of exotic states of matter and wave phenomena. Such systems exhibit unique features such as exceptional points, non-reciprocal transport, and topologically protected states that do not have Hermitian counterparts. These phenomena are relevant across multiple platforms, including condensed matter systems, photonics, acoustics, and cold atom setups.
In condensed matter physics, non-Hermitian concepts provide insight into open quantum systems, dissipative effects, and boundary phenomena that challenge our understanding of topology, symmetry, and quantum coherence. Similarly, in optical systems, non-Hermitian structures enable the control of light in unprecedented ways, leading to innovative applications in sensing, lasing, and non-reciprocal devices. The interplay between non-Hermiticity, topology, and symmetry gives rise to novel phases of matter and dynamical behaviors across these domains, fostering a deeper understanding of fundamental principles and potential technological breakthroughs.
This workshop aims to bring together leading experimentalists and theorists working across disciplines—including condensed matter, photonics, and beyond—to share recent advances and forge new directions in non-Hermitian physics. Topics of interest include, but are not limited to, the theoretical foundations of non-Hermitian topological phases, experimental realizations and observations of exceptional points and skin effects, dissipative quantum states, and applications in optical and electronic devices. The workshop will also address emerging topics such as nonequilibrium dynamics, quantum simulations of non-Hermitian systems, and the role of symmetries in stabilizing or protecting novel states.
The scope of this workshop encompasses a broad spectrum of phenomena and systems, with a particular focus on understanding how non-Hermiticity influences the properties, classifications, and potential applications of quantum and wave systems across various platforms. By fostering interdisciplinary discussions, we aim to deepen our understanding of non-Hermitian phenomena and explore new avenues for research and technological innovation.
Highlighted topics include:
Non-Hermitian topological phases and invariant classifications
Exceptional points, bulk-boundary correspondence, and skin effects
Dissipative quantum systems and open quantum dynamics
Non-reciprocal transport and device applications in photonics and electronics
Quantum simulations and experimental realizations of non-Hermitian Hamiltonians
Symmetry, topology, and their breaking in non-Hermitian systems
This workshop seeks to catalyze collaboration and innovation at the intersection of condensed matter physics, optics, and beyond, harnessing the power of non-Hermitian concepts to unlock new physical insights and technological advancements.