Dr. Stefan Knirck

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Stefan Knirck is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physics at Harvard University. His research focuses on searching for axion dark matter using novel detector technology. Specifically, his work involves the development of high-quality-factor resonators for large-volume setups aimed at axion-photon conversion. Knirck is a member of several collaborations, including the Axion Dark Matter eXperiment (ADMX), which is a leading experiment in the search for axions, and works on the MAgnetized Disk Mirror Axion Experiment (MADMAX) and the Broadband Reflector Experiment Axion Detection (BREAD). He earned his Ph.D. with highest honors from the Max-Planck-Institute of Physics and the Technical University of Munich, where his thesis on MADMAX was recognized as the Best Ph.D. thesis of 2020 by the Collaborative Research Center SFB1258. Prior to his current position, he was a research associate at Fermilab, contributing significantly to the ADMX project and leading the design and implementation of the BREAD prototype. Knirck's work is at the intersection of fundamental particle physics, astrophysics, photonics, and quantum sensing, leveraging technologies from various fields to enhance the sensitivity of dark matter searches. He continues to advance the frontiers of particle physics through innovative experimental approaches.

Research Interests

Experience

Research Associate

2020-01-01 — 2021-01-01

Fermilab • Batavia, IL, USA

Contributed essential research on the Axion Dark Matter eXperiment.

Assistant Professor

2021-01-01 — Present

Harvard University • Cambridge, MA, USA

Leads research in experimental particle physics with a focus on axion dark matter.

Awards

#1

Best Ph.D. Thesis 2020

2020-01-01
#1

DESY International Fellowship Award

2021-01-01

Requirements for Harvard University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
TOEFL
Total
Required:80
IELTS
Overall
Required:6.5
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in a technical or quantitative field
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

Administered by the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS).