CFM researcher Sebastián Bergeret selected as a new Chair of Excellence at InstituteQ in Finland
The leader of the Mesoscopic Physics Group will hold this chair during the 2026-2028 term at the University of Jyväskylä, strengthening ties between the quantum ecosystems of the Basque Country and Finland.
Materials Physics Center (CFM) researcher Sebastián Bergeret has been selected as the new InstituteQ Chair of Excellence for the 2026-2028 term. This prestigious position will be hosted at the University of Jyväskylä in Finland.
This appointment is part of InstituteQ’s third Chair of Excellence call, a program designed to host leading international experts and eminent scholars for a three-year term. Bergeret’s designation consolidates the international projection of the CFM at the forefront of quantum technology research.
Understanding the quantum materials of the future
The research group led by Bergeret at the CFM works in the field of theoretical condensed matter physics. Their efforts focus on various aspects of quantum transport, with a particular emphasis on superconductivity, magnetism, and their interplay.
“Our research aims to predict, explain, and support experimental observations by analyzing how quantum effects manifest themselves in transport properties. In this way, we contribute to a deeper understanding of quantum materials and devices and help bridge the gap between fundamental theory and experimental realization,” explains Bergeret.
Synergies between the Basque Country and Finland: a common European front
This chair will provide a unique opportunity to take to a new level the long-term collaboration that Bergeret has maintained since 2009 with Professor Tero Heikkilä’s group at the University of Jyväskylä (Finland). Over the years, this partnership has resulted in numerous scientific publications, joint patents, and participation in European projects.
The CFM researcher also highlights the significant opportunities for collaboration between the quantum ecosystems of Finland and the Basque Country. While the Basque Country is experiencing significant momentum driven by initiatives such as BasQ and the acquisition of an IBM quantum computer, Finland provides an integrated model of education, fundamental research, engineering, and technological innovation.
“At a time of rapid geopolitical change, Europe must combine its strengths to remain at the forefront of emerging technologies. Collaborations of this kind can contribute not only to the development of stronger regional ecosystems, but also to a more competitive and interconnected European quantum technology landscape,” notes the new Chair of Excellence.