Lian Li

Prof. Lian Li is the Robert L. Carroll Professor of Physics at the Department of Physics and Astronomy, West Virginia University. His research focuses on condensed matter physics, particularly the growth and characterization of quantum materials like Dirac materials, Fe-based superconductors, and 2D transition metal dichalcogenides. He uses advanced techniques such as molecular beam epitaxy (MBE), in situ low-temperature scanning tunneling microscopy/spectroscopy (STM/S), and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES). His work explores the interplay of strain, proximity effects, and spin-orbit interactions in quantum phases of matter, supported by grants from NSF and DOE.

• Education: BSc (Yunnan University, 1983), MSc (Tongji University, 1987), PhD (Arizona State University, 1995)
• Postdoctoral: Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (Tohoku University, 1995-1996), UCLA (1996-1999)
• Positions: Assistant Professor (University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 1999-2007), Full Professor (2007-2016), Robert L. Carroll Professor (WVU, 2016-present)

Research interests include the structural and electronic properties of topological insulators, graphene, and superconductors. His awards include the E. W. Müller Outstanding Young Scientist Award (1996) and NSF CAREER Award (2001). His lab investigates material synthesis and in situ characterization under extreme conditions, contributing to advancements in quantum materials science.