KSQM Calendar

Black holes play an increasingly important role in the study of gravitational physics. In this mini lecture series, aimed at graduate students with no prior experience in general relativity, we will first review the basics of curved spacetime, including a bit of mathematics but also drawing on physical intuition. In a second step, we will focus on black holes, explain some of their properties, and highlight what fundamental physics questions can be answered with current and planned observations of black holes. Last, in a third step, we will take a peek into the future, and address current theories (such as black hole thermodynamics, holography, and non-singular gravity) that address quantum aspects of black holes and connect the rich field of gravity to quantum physics itself.

Carina Lainer is part of Roland Berger’s Advanced Technology Center, where she leads the "Quantum Technologies, Photonics and Optics Cluster." Her career began in quantum optics research at the German Aerospace Center in the Institute for Active Optical Systems. She transitioned into strategy consulting and became part of the management team at Roland Berger. Carina is recognized globally as a thought leader and advisor in quantum sensors, quantum communication, quantum cryptography, and quantum computing. She also possesses extensive experience in microelectronic and physics technologies, i.e., cooling systems, instrumentation, or semiconductor manufacturing.
As a respected subject matter expert, Carina is frequently invited to contribute as a guest columnist, publisher, and interview partner for specialist media, conferences, industry, and government consortia. She has successfully advised clients across high-tech electronics, semiconductors, chemicals, finance, automotive, and aerospace & defense industries, working with corporate clients, governmental institutions, and investors worldwide.
Her functional expertise includes go-to-market strategy, business model development, technology-driven transformation (including AI), performance improvement programs, and due diligence processes. Carina holds degrees in Physics and Business from the University of Oxford, Hult International Business School, Sorbonne University, and Johannes Gutenberg-University. She combines a passion for emerging technologies with a pragmatic perspective on market developments and customer needs, consulting at the forefront of technology innovation to create tangible impact for her clients.

How are good research, successful research, and responsible research connected? This workshop invites early career researchers to reflect on the ethical challenges that can arise in everyday scientific practice — especially in competitive academic environments shaped by publication pressure, hierarchy, and limited resources.
The workshop addresses questions such as:
When does selective data presentation become problematic? How should researchers deal with statistical “outliers” or ambiguous results? What counts as scientific misconduct — and what falls into an ethical grey area? How transparent must research practice be? What can I do if I notice misconduct or questionable research practices? How should I respond to problematic expectations from supervisors or colleagues? The workshop combines short inputs with realistic case discussions and role-play exercises. Participants will learn to recognise ethical conflicts, analyse them more clearly, and develop practical tools for making responsible decisions in their own research contexts.
The aim is not only to raise awareness of potential misconduct, but to show that excellent research and responsible research belong together.