KVI is a top scientific institute at the University of Groningen with an outstanding performance reputation both nationally and internationally
in atomic and subatomic physics research. KVI avails itself of a state-of-the-art superconducting cyclotron - AGOR - for high current, heavy ion beams. KVI researchers are known worldwide for their research results and expertise. KVI is a Centre of Excellence in Atomic and Subatomic Physics serving the community, the university, and the international scientific community.
The leading areas of research at the institute are:
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Research in fundamental forces and symmetries in physics, particularly precision measurements to test the Standard Model and find New Physics, and Hadron Physics to assess the properties of the strong nuclear force. We aim, for example, at the most sensitive search experiment for the discovery of a time reversal violating permanent electric dipole moment of elementary particles, a topic which is studied at low energies and which is complementary to high-energy experiments.
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Applications of the technology and methods developed for fundamental research, particularly accelerator technology, detectors and high-precision atomic physics technology in e.g. medical physical issues.
Besides these, there are a small number of top scientific questions in, for example, astroparticle physics, where the existing KVI expertise and infrastructure can be applied.
A special strength of KVI is the combination of top level expertise in atomic, hadron, particle and accelerator physics and a local theory group with intense collaboration with the experiments. The positive synergy effects are already observed at the TRIµP research line, where the combination of expertise is unique in the world. A similar interdisciplinary collaboration forms the basis of a new research line in physics for life, which makes KVI a very interesting partner for industry. The recently started transfer of state-of-the-art technology for socially relevant questions, e.g. detection of rare isotopes, will be continued. Fundamental research, which requires development of frontline technology, is essential for the continuation of this process in the future.
