Over the next 15 years, as head of the school of Theoretical Physics at DIAS, Schrödinger continued his research into quantum theory – a theory which, to this day, is our best description of the fundamental laws that govern the smallest building blocks of nature.

The importance of quantum theory in modern day life cannot be overstated. From computers and phones, to GPS and fibre optic cables, many vital modern technologies would not exist without an understanding of quantum theory.

From the 1920s onward, Schrödinger laid the foundations of this theory, most notably with his mathematical description of particles as waves, and the governing equation of these waves – now aptly named the Schrödinger Equation. This revolutionary description earned Schrödinger the Nobel Prize in 1933 together with Paul Dirac, as well as high-praise from Albert Einstein: “… the idea of your work springs from true genius…”

The Schrödinger Equation is now ubiquitous in Physics, Chemistry, and even Biology, and forms the backbone of all modern applications of quantum theory.

Despite playing his part in shaping the theory, Schrödinger was deeply troubled by the philosophical implications of quantum physics – a sentiment shared by Albert Einstein and many physicists to this day. Schrödinger even went as far to say “I don’t like it, and I’m sorry I ever had anything to do with it.” To further highlight the absurdity of the prevailing interpretation of quantum physics he also contrived the famous Schrödinger’s cat thought-experiment.