Author: Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa)
Source: news.admin.ch – Press Release
Publication Date: December 11, 2025
Reading Time: approx. 4 minutes
Executive Summary
Empa is awarding a two-year "Young Scientist Fellowship" to researcher Goncalo Catarina to develop a systematic theoretical model for carbon-based quantum materials (nanographenes). Existing standard calculation models fail for these quantum structures, which is why novel mathematical methods are required. The project could pave the way for concrete applications in quantum computers, sensors, and communication technologies.
Critical Guiding Questions (liberal-scientific)
Transparency: What fundamental assumptions must researchers make in order to make complex quantum systems modelable at all – and where do uncertainties arise in the process?
Innovation & Freedom: To what extent does institutional support (fellowship model) enable faster progress than traditional project financing?
Responsibility: Who controls and validates the new models before they are implemented in applications?
Risk Awareness: What are realistic time horizons until practical application of this research?
Knowledge Transfer: How is it ensured that results – even in case of failure – are accessible to the scientific community?
Scenario Analysis: Future Perspectives
| Time Horizon | Expected Development |
|---|---|
| Short-term (1–2 years) | Validation of theoretical model through laboratory experiments; first publications in peer-reviewed journals |
| Medium-term (5 years) | Application in prototypes for sensors and quantum computer components; possibly commercial partnerships |
| Long-term (10–20 years) | Integration into everyday electronic technologies; potential quantum leaps in communication and computing technology |
Main Summary
Core Topic & Context
Nanographenes are two-dimensional carbon structures with exceptional quantum properties. To date, a reliable mathematical model for their calculation and prediction has been lacking. The new fellowship project "CarboQuant" is intended to close this gap.
Key Facts & Figures
- Funding: 2-year "Empa Young Scientist Fellowship" for Dr. Goncalo Catarina
- Funders: Werner Siemens Foundation and Swiss National Science Foundation (SNF)
- Core Problem: Standard calculation models do not work for nanographenes; conventional simplifications fail
- Goal: "ab initio" model based only on fundamental laws of physics
- Status: Project is at the beginning; high risk, but also high learning potential ⚠️
Stakeholders & Affected Parties
- Beneficiaries: Quantum computer industry, semiconductor manufacturers, sensor technology
- Researchers: Catarina and colleagues in the "nanotech@surfaces" laboratory gain new insights
- Society: Potentially long-term improvements in communication and data processing
- Uncertainty: Commercialization timeline and technical feasibility unclear ⚠️
Opportunities & Risks
| Opportunities | Risks |
|---|---|
| Breakthrough for quantum technologies | Technical feasibility not guaranteed |
| Systematic predictability of quantum systems | Long timeframes until application |
| Knowledge gains even in case of partial failure | Dependence on follow-up funding |
| Competitive advantage for Swiss research | Results could be exported |
Action Relevance
Relevant for decision-makers: This project symbolizes strategic investments in basic research that can strengthen innovation clusters (quantum computing, nanotechnology) in the medium term. Governments and private investors should consider similar fellowship models as efficient talent promotion.
Quality Assurance & Fact-Checking
- [x] Central statements verified (Source: official Empa press release)
- [x] Unconfirmed data marked with ⚠️ (commercialization timeline, technical feasibility)
- [x] No contradictory information identified
- [x] Bias check: Text is institutional self-presentation; critical external perspective lacking
Supplementary Research
Relevant Topics & Sources:
- Empa Research Projects – Overview of further materials science initiatives
- Materials Science & Quantum Technology – Contextual classification within broader research landscape
- Nanographene Basics: cf. work on graphene derivatives and 2D materials (Nature Materials, ACS Nano)
Source Directory
Primary Source:
Empa Young Scientist Fellowship: Calculating Quantum Effects in Carbon Molecules – news.admin.ch, December 11, 2025
Contact for Further Information:
Dr. Goncalo Catarina, nanotech@surfaces, Empa
Tel. +41 58 765 43 43 | [email protected]
Verification Status: ✓ Facts checked on December 11, 2025
This text was created with support from Claude (Anthropic).
Editorial responsibility: clarus.news | Fact-checking: December 11, 2025