One person, many passions

Meet our new doctoral candidate Benedict Röcken!

We’re excited to welcome and introduce you to Benedict Röcken, one of the newest doctoral candidates in the IMPRS-APS program! Benedict has just started his doctoral journey in the experimental section of the “Attosecond science” group, working under the guidance of Nobel laureate Prof. Ferenc Krausz and Dr. Nicholas Karpowicz at the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics. His passions reach far beyond the lab, and outside of research, you will find him dancing, making music or spending time in nature.

What’s your main research focus for your PhD?

I aim to enhance the sensitivity of a laser system for detecting various excitations in blood samples. This could help to improve medical diagnostics. For this purpose, I will be developing a laser setup for high-speed sampling at MHz rates using a background-free measurement approach. To enhance the existing setups, I will employ a range of amplifiers and optical components, and will also design and construct custom systems as needed.

What excites you most about this field?

What excites me most about this topic is its potential to significantly impact medical diagnostics for those in need. It uniquely combines cutting-edge research with complex and demanding medical applications. Additionally, I am deeply intrigued by the flexibility and sophistication involved in designing laser systems capable of achieving increasingly precise measurements.

What and where did you study?

I did my bachelor's and master’s degree at the Ludwig Maximilians University here in Munich and was given the opportunity to write my master thesis in the group of Prof. Immanuel Bloch at the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics. I transitioned into attosecond physics after recognizing its potential to address pressing societal challenges. My interest was further inspired by a series of compelling lectures presented by the group of Prof. Ferenc Krausz. 

What attracted you to the IMPRS-APS program?

Throughout my studies, I had the privilege of engaging in meaningful exchanges with scientists from diverse backgrounds. These interactions not only inspired me to advance my research but also broadened my perspective, enabling me to approach problems more creatively and develop innovative solutions. I believe the IMPRS-APS program offers an exceptional environment for collaboration with like-minded researchers, which I consider essential to scientific progress. A deeper understanding of complex challenges and their potential solutions can only emerge through active and interdisciplinary dialogue.

What skills do you want to develop during your PhD?

During my PhD, I aim to further develop my ability to approach complex problems with both creativity and structured methodology. I also seek to deepen my expertise in photonics and broaden my understanding of interdisciplinary fields such as engineering, biophysics, and related areas. Additionally, I view this journey as an opportunity for personal growth—particularly in identifying and leveraging my strengths, as well as refining my time management and overall efficiency.

What is something you enjoy outside of research?

I am quite passionate about a lot of hobbies and also enjoyed trying out quite some different sports and activities. Currently I am a competitive Latin dancer, I play the saxophone and violin and I also love spending time in nature, especially in the mountains for hiking.

Welcome Benedict!