Alice C. Quillen

Dr. Alice C. Quillen is a Professor of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Rochester, specializing in galactic dynamics, exoplanetary systems, and quantum information. Her research encompasses observational, numerical, and theoretical studies of celestial mechanics, including exoplanets, stars in galaxies, and circumstellar disks. She leads experiments in active biological materials, granular systems, and low-cost robotics. Quillen has received prestigious awards such as the 2017 Simons Fellowship and the 2025 Professor of the Year in Natural Sciences. She teaches advanced courses like Quantum Computing and Astrophysical Fluid Dynamics.

Research Interests:

• Galactic structure and dynamics, including spiral arms and bars
• Exoplanetary systems and planetary formation mechanisms
• Numerical simulations of collisional systems
• Quantum information and computational astrophysics

Lab Activities:

• Investigates granular systems relevant to asteroid surfaces
• Develops robotics and biophysics experiments

Awards:

• 2025: Professor of the Year in Natural Sciences
• 2017: Simons Fellow in Theoretical Physics
• 2010: Annual Award for Excellence in Teaching

Teaching:

• PHY265: Quantum Computing and Quantum Information
• AST233: Astro-Dynamics
• PHY411: Classical Mechanics and Chaotic Dynamics