Since the first experimental realization of Bose-Einstein condensation in ultracold atomic gases in 1995, there have been several substantial breakthroughs. Today, systems of bosonic or fermionic quantum gases allow for a very high level of experimental control concerning all ingredients of the underlying many-body Hamiltonian. Therefore, ultracold atomic or molecular quantum gases are considered to be ideal quantum simulators, that is, they are best capable to simulate difficult problems in quantum many-body physics as they occur in condensed matter physics and other fields of physics.

In response to the occurrence of many new research directions in recent years, it is highly desirable to give a coherent overview over the diverse facets which are now appearing, and to reflect upon the future perspectives of the field. Thus, the seminar follows the interdisciplinary concept in bringing together experimental and theoretical scientists, who investigate the properties of ultracold quantum gases from different points of view, to exchange opinions, discuss problems, and disseminate new ideas. On the one hand, invited plenary talks by 25 selected leading international experts will guarantee a high scientific level for the seminar, and will provide its main backbone. On the other hand, all other participants will be given the opportunity to present their current research work within a high-class setting through shorter contributed talks or through posters, thereby generating a forum for identifying the most promising current trends and future perspectives.