Research Units

The OIST Neural Computation Unit aims to develop novel algorithms and to reveal brain mechanisms for reinforcement learning and Bayesian inference by combining top-down theoretical and bottom-up experimental approaches.

We work in experimental nonlinear, non-equilibrium and soft matter physics. Our current research focuses on fluids, granular media, fluctuations in renewables and quantitative life sciences.

The Optical Neuroimaging Unit uses home-built two-photon microscopes and special fluorescent dyes to image neuronal and astrocytic activity on a cellular level in behaving mice. 

The Organic Optoelectronics Unit explores the optical and electrical properties of organic molecules and their applications for optoelectronic devices.

We explore syntheses of novel functional organic and carbon nanomaterials, using the techniques of organic chemistry, aming at elucidation of their properties and various applications.

The Protein Engineering and Evolution Unit applies chemical approaches, evolutionary methods and protein engineering to study and manipulate protein functions.

Quantum information science and technology brings quantum mechanics and information theory together and includes, but is not limited to, quantum computation, quantum communication, and quantum metrology.

In Quantum Dynamics Unit we study a unique system of elementary quantum particles, electrons, floating on the surface of liquid helium. Helium, which is a noble gas at room temperature, becomes liquid when it is cooled down in a refrigerator. Unlike any other substances encountered in nature, helium remains liquid even at the absolute zero temperature, thus contains no impurities and presents the cleanest substrate for electrons. At such low temperatures, electrons behave as quantum objects with charge and spin degrees of freedom, which can be harnessed for interesting applications, such as quantum computing. In Quantum Dynamics Unit we use a variety of experimental techniques such as microwave engineering and microfabrication to study properties of electrons on helium and harness them for quantum technology.

The Quantum Engineering and Design Unit explores how we can transfer today ideas in quantum information science into tomorrow’s quantum technologies through system design.

Curiosity-driven research on fundamental theoretical physics. Recent focus areas include higher-spin theory, de Sitter holography, black holes and asymptotic symmetries.

The research unit will conduct theoretical research into all aspects of quantum information processing with focus on the nature of randomness and its applications in secure communication.

We study in theory and experiments the engineering of quantum devices built from different subsystems that can collectively perform beyond the individual capabilities of their parts.

We explore novel physics, leads to future nano-electronics and nano-spintronics, and design novel charge, spin, orbital, and/or phonon states in a variety of engineered quantum materials.

We study synthetic few- and many-body systems made from ultra-cold atomic gases and develop methods to quantify, control, and engineer their properties and their dynamics.

Our Unit studies how quantum and hybrid materials respond to light and convert, transport, and store energy, aiming to uncover new optoelectronic principles.

The Qubits and Spacetime Unit explores quantum properties of spacetime

Our goal is to find how the brain supports complex and adaptive behaviour, that is crucial for animals' success. We investigate this using olfaction in rodents, through study of neural circuit analyses - both local and long-range - in a variety of behavioural contexts.

The Solar-Terrestrial Environment and Climate Unit conducts research to enhance our understanding of the Sun, its surrounding environment, and their impacts on Earth’s climate and weather.