HomeScienceBelgium’s little Einstein: This 15-year-old has a PhD in quantum physics

Belgium’s little Einstein: This 15-year-old has a PhD in quantum physics

At just 15, Laurent Simons has earned a PhD in quantum physics. Scientists are watching closely as his work and future ambitions could shape next-generation science and human health.

December 24, 2025 / 15:44 IST
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Laurent Simons from Belgium holds a PhD in quantum physics at the age of 15. (Image: Instagram/@laurent_simons)
Laurent Simons from Belgium holds a PhD in quantum physics at the age of 15. (Image: Instagram/@laurent_simons)

Most teenagers are finishing school exams or choosing university subjects. Laurent Simons, however, has completed a PhD in quantum physics at just 15 years old. His achievement has stunned the scientific community and captured global attention. It raises a compelling question: how far can human potential really go?

Who is Laurent Simons? 

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Born in Belgium, Laurent Simons is 15 years old, who achieved his PhD in quantum physics at the University of Antwerp in Belgium. This achievement makes him one of the youngest people in the world to hold such a degree.

What Are His Achievements?

In November 2025, Simon successfully defended his thesis on Bose polarons in superfluids and supersolids  which is a complex area of quantum physics. His research explores how particles behave in ultracold environments where matter acts like both solid and liquid. Simons completed a bachelor’s degree by age 12 in just 18 months. He then pursued doctoral research at the University of Antwerp.