Jan Zaanen is professor of theoretical physics at Leiden University, the Netherlands. He is best known for his contributions to the understanding of the quantum physics of the electrons in strongly correlated material, and in particular high temperature superconductivity. Zaanen's areas of interest are in the search for novel forms of collective quantum phenomena realized in systems build from mundane constituents like electrons, spins, and atoms.
He introduced the so-called Zaanen-Sawatzky-Allen diagram, the LDA+U band structure method and he became particularly well known for his discovery of the stripe instability of the doped Mott insulator. His present research is focused on the quantum critical point and unconventional phases of quantum matter. He is a well-known proponent of the application of Holographic principle to condensed matter physics . He is also well known for his many editorial contributions to the journals Nature and Science. He is currently on the board of reviewing editors of the latter journal and also editor of the Journal of High Energy Physics.
Wikipedia
“Quantum mechanics is the Disney World for adults!”
Real men do GR!
in Eminent Talent: 2006 - The twelfth year, a festive edition celebrating 10 years Spinoza Prize. http://www.nwo.nl/nwohome.nsf/pages/NWOA_6WAGZJ_Eng
