On September 21, 2026, the CNRS Michel-Ange Campus in Paris hosted a thematic day titled “Thermodynamics and Control at Ultimate Scales.” The organizers included Stéphane Guérin, Director of the ICB, and Camille Lombard-Latune—both members of the DiTeQ team within the ICB’s Quantum Interactions and Control (ICQ) department.
The event aimed to bring together various communities working on four key themes: information thermodynamics, stochastic thermodynamics, quantum effects in thermodynamics and energetics, and quantum control. These topics are currently being studied by diverse groups, spanning fields from classical to quantum physics and from mathematics to physics. Despite sharing common challenges, interaction between these communities remains limited. A primary goal of the event was therefore to enable researchers in the field to meet and exchange ideas, as well as to consider establishing a national network focused on thermodynamics and control at ultimate scales.
Planning a Future Research Group (GDR)
This meeting was part of an ongoing discussion regarding the creation of a Research Group (GDR) dedicated to these topics. The event aimed to better define the scientific scope of this future network, identify interested research teams, and discuss potential initiatives. The goal is also to propose a structure that complements existing GDRs. Such a network could facilitate exchanges between French research teams and enable the regular organization of symposia and specialized training schools.
Presentations, Posters, and Discussion Sessions
The day was structured around several introductory scientific presentations covering the workshop’s four key themes. Poster sessions also gave participants the opportunity to present their work and recent findings. A round-table discussion on the proposed GDR rounded out the program. Discussions focused on the future network’s scientific objectives, its scope, its relationship with existing GDRs, and potential collaborations. An open discussion session followed, allowing participants to share their views and proposals.
