In 1926, Erwin Schrödinger published a series of seminal papers introducing the Schrödinger equation, the cornerstone of quantum mechanics. This partial differential equation governs the time evolution and stationary states of quantum systems, linking atomic and molecular structure to the behavior of condensed matter and enabling a wide range of modern technology—from semiconductors and lasers to magnetic resonance imaging and emerging quantum devices.

This two-day symposium marks the equation’s centenary and brings together leading international experts for twelve lectures spanning historical perspectives, foundational and mathematical aspects, and contemporary applications. Themes include advances in rigorous and computational methods, developments in quantum information, chemistry, and materials science, as well as open problems and future directions. The event is designed to engage both specialists and non-specialists, highlighting how a single equation reshaped our understanding of nature and continues to drive innovation a century later.

List of speakers

Markus Aspelmeyer, Vienna
Markus Arndt, Vienna­
Klaus Fredenhagen, Hamburg
Jürg Fröhlich, Zürich
Leticia González, Vienna 
Eberhard Groß, Jerusalem
Susana Huelga, Ulm
Barbara Kraus, Munich
Jan Philip Solovej, Copenhagen 
Nicola Spaldin, Zürich
Jürgen Renn, Berlin/Jena 
Reinhard Werner, Hannover