Simonetta Liuti

Simonetta Liuti is a Research Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of Virginia. She holds a Ph.D. in Physics from La Sapienza University (1989) and a Laurea in Physics from Università degli Studi di Perugia (1984). Her work focuses on theoretical nuclear and particle physics, particularly the internal dynamics of protons governed by quantum chromodynamics (QCD).

Education

• Ph.D., Physics, La Sapienza University (1989)
• Laurea in Physics, Università degli Studi di Perugia (1984)

Research Interests

Professor Liuti specializes in understanding the proton's spin, mass, and mechanical properties through QCD. Her research explores the role of quark and gluon orbital motion, utilizing 3D parton distributions (Wigner distributions) and the Electron Ion Collider (EIC) to create tomographic images linking quantum phenomena to macroscopic matter. Her work has implications for neutron star physics.

Scientific Awards & Recognition

• APS Fellowship (2017)
• SESAPS Francis Slack Prize (2019)
• DOE Topical Collaboration Award (2017, with student Abha Rajan)
• Physical Review C Editorial Board member (2017-2020)

Service & Leadership

Liuti has held leadership roles in the American Physical Society, including serving as Vice Chair of SESAPS (2012-2016) and organizing workshops to promote inclusion in physics. She contributes to institutional committees at UVA, such as the Physics Community and Outreach Committee and Grievance Committee.