Hi! I’m Robin, a French PhD student based in Okazaki, Japan, where I work on neutral atom quantum systems combine with ultrafast pulse. This summer, thanks to the ASPIRE program, I had the chance to spend a month in Stuttgart, Germany, working in the lab of Prof. Tilman Pfau at the University of Stuttgart. The experience was inspiring, and I’m excited to share a bit about it.

ASPIRE is an exchange program that connects researchers in Japan and Germany working in the field of neutral atom quantum computing. The idea is to build a strong, collaborative community by giving students and scientists the chance to work in each other’s labs, share ideas, and see how things are done on the other side of the world. 

The Pfau Lab is well-known for pioneering work in Rydberg atoms, dipolar quantum gases, and other cool (literally!) areas of atomic physics. I joined the thermal atom team, where the focus is on experiments using hot atomic vapors—quite different from the ultra-cold systems I usually work with in Japan.

From day one, the team made me feel welcome. During my stay I had the chance to present my own research to the group, which sparked some great discussions and gave me a lot of useful feedback. It wasn’t just lab work, though. I got to explore Stuttgart, experience daily life in Germany, and connect with researchers from different backgrounds. I even picked up a few German words! One of the best parts was realizing how much we have in common, despite working in different systems or being at different career stages.  These kinds of exchanges are so important. They help young researchers like me grow, not just technically, but culturally and personally. I came back to Japan with new skills and new ideas, and I’m excited about where this partnership might go next.

Huge thanks to the ASPIRE program for making this trip possible, and to everyone in the Pfau Lab for being such generous hosts.