CoG Represented at the Danish Physics Society Annual Meeting 2026

On 8–9 June, Center of Gravity member Marica Minucci attended the 2026 annual meeting of Dansk Fysisk Selskab (DFS26), hosted by Syddansk Universitet in Odense. The annual meeting brings together physicists from universities, research institutions, and industry across Denmark, providing a unique forum for scientific exchange, collaboration, and community building.

Over two days, participants explored a broad range of topics reflecting the diversity of modern physics. The scientific program featured talks on binary black-hole mergers, cosmology, quantum technologies, photonics, climate science, and many other areas at the forefront of contemporary research. The meeting highlighted how advances in physics continue to emerge from interactions across traditionally distinct disciplines, creating opportunities for new collaborations and perspectives.

Among the highlights was a thought-provoking discussion on the role of artificial intelligence in education. Speakers and participants explored both the opportunities and challenges associated with integrating AI into teaching and research environments. The conversation emphasized the importance of ensuring that future physicists develop not only technical skills, but also the critical thinking, creativity, and scientific judgment that remain central to the research process.

Marica contributed to the meeting both as a session chair and as a speaker. In her presentation, she discussed her own research and introduced some of the work being carried out at the Center of Gravity at the Niels Bohr Institute. The talk provided an opportunity to share current efforts aimed at understanding gravity and the fundamental nature of the Universe, while also highlighting the interdisciplinary environment that characterizes the Center's activities. Discussions following the presentation led to valuable exchanges with researchers working in a wide variety of fields, from theoretical physics to emerging quantum technologies.

Beyond the scientific program, DFS26 offered valuable opportunities for networking and community building. Students and early-career researchers presented their work through talks and posters, showcasing the strength of the next generation of physicists in Denmark. Informal discussions during breaks and social events further encouraged the exchange of ideas across institutions and disciplines.

A special highlight was the annual meeting of Kvinder i Fysik (KIF), where Marica served as chair. The meeting provided an opportunity to reflect on the remarkable growth of the network and to review the many initiatives, events, and outreach activities carried out over the past year to support women and underrepresented groups in physics. The annual KIF Prize was also awarded, recognizing an individual whose long-standing commitment has made a significant impact on diversity, inclusion, mentorship, and community-building within and beyond the Danish physics landscape.

DFS26 once again demonstrated the strength, diversity, and collaborative spirit of the Danish physics community. By bringing together researchers working on subjects ranging from the quantum scale to the largest structures in the Universe, the meeting highlighted the value of scientific dialogue and the importance of fostering connections across disciplines, institutions, and career stages.

June 17, 2026, 11:36 p.m.