General relativity and quantum mechanics are the twin pillars of modern physics, yet they remain fundamentally unreconciled. We pursue tabletop experiments that probe this frontier—not by building particle accelerators, but by pushing optomechanical systems to regimes where quantum and gravitational effects might intersect.
Our philosophy is rigorously empirical. We design **null experiments**: measurements where standard physics predicts a precise null result, so any deviation would signal new physics. Candidate targets include spacetime discreteness at the Planck scale, gravitationally induced decoherence, and exotic noise sources predicted by various quantum-gravity models.
The experimental toolkit includes cryogenic mechanical oscillators cooled to their quantum ground states, high-finesse optical cavities for displacement sensing at the attometer level, and correlation measurements between spatially separated masses. We collaborate closely with theorists to ensure our experiments actually constrain the models we care about—not just technically impressive, but scientifically decisive.
**Reproducibility** is a core value. We document protocols in detail, share data openly, and encourage independent replication at partner laboratories worldwide. Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence; our job is to provide evidence so clean that the claims become ordinary.
This pillar suits those who want to ask the biggest questions in physics and are willing to pursue them with meticulous experimental care.
Representative topics
Lab-scale tests of QG
QG with GW
Projects in this pillar
Tabletop tests of quantum gravity
— Design tabletop optomechanical experiments that probe quantum aspects of gravity and potential deviations from standard quantum mechanics.
For an overview of all pillars and projects, see the
Research Projects page.
