Exploring Classical and Quantum Fields in Curved Spacetimes: Lab-Based Investigations into Black Holes and Early Universe Physics

• Silke Weinfurtner (University of Nottingham)

Exploring the dynamics of the early universe and black holes unveils profound insights into the interplay between general relativity and classical/quantum fields. Important phenomena emerge when gravitational and/or field interactions are strong, and/or when quantum effects become prominent. Notable examples include Hawking's proposal on the evaporation of black holes, Penrose's conjecture on the spin-down of rotating black holes, and Kofman's proposal on particle production during preheating. Despite their significance, observing these phenomena directly remains elusive. In this presentation, I will report on recent advancements in investigating these processes in laboratory experiments involving normal and quantum liquids.

Art + Science --- Dream a Little Before You Think: Building Inclusive and Collaborative Research Environments

• Silke Weinfurtner (University of Nottingham)

This talk explores how inclusive scientific environments can be intentionally created and sustained through collaboration, networks of support, and shared excitement and joy in research. At its core, it presents engagement and art–science approaches as deliberate tools for translating Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion into everyday scientific practice by: * Advancing equity through supportive and interdisciplinary structures that lower barriers and empower early career researchers * Sustaining diversity by valuing different perspectives, methods, and forms of contribution across science, philosophy, and the arts * Enabling inclusion through playful and creative approaches that foster psychological safety, curiosity, and collaboration Drawing on personal experience, the speaker will discuss engagement and art–science collaborations as an ongoing experiment in building such environments, share concrete examples of success, and reflect openly on challenges encountered—and on what it takes to overcome them.