Is quantum theory exact? The endeavor for the theory beyond standard quantum mechanics.

The aim of the workshop is to discuss the possible limits of validity of quantum mechanics and theories which go beyond standard quantum mechanics.

From the theoretical point of view, since the Einstein-Bohr debate, quantum mechanics never stopped raising questions about its meaning. In particular, the transition from the microscopic world, where systems are observed in a superposition of different quantum states, to the macroscopic world, where systems have well defined positions (the so-called “measurement problem”), never stopped to puzzle the scientific community. For this reason, scientists are pushed to look for theories beyond the standard quantum formulation.

From the experimental point of view, quantum mechanics is the best verified available theory. It is therefore a very compelling challenge to look for possible small violations predicted by alternative quantum theories. The aim is either to put stronger observational bounds on the new theories, i.e. on model's parameters, or, much more exciting, to find a violation of standard quantum mechanics when compared with the new theories' predictions. In this framework, a deeper understanding of the possible limits of validity of the quantum superposition principle is an interesting experimental challenge.

• COST MP1006 EU Action

The workshop is an occasion of discussion and brainstorming between senior and junior scientists to favour the collaboration between theoreticians and experimentalists as an endeavor for the possible theory beyond standard quantum mechanics."