Victor Galitski is a Professor of Physics at the University of Maryland and a Fellow of the Joint Quantum Institute (JQI). He holds two PhDs in applied mathematics and condensed matter physics, joined UMD in 2002 as a postdoc, and became a faculty member in 2005. His research focuses on theoretical physics and quantum information science, with notable contributions to quantum chaos, superconductivity, and topological materials. He co-founded Aspen Quantum Consulting and ScienceCast.org, and serves as an Honorary Professor at Monash University and an editor for Annals of Physics . Galitski’s educational efforts include authoring ' Exploring Quantum Mechanics ' (Oxford Press) and teaching a Coursera MOOC on quantum physics (enrolled by 200,000+ students). His research interests span quantum spin glasses, hydrodynamic turbulence, Floquet topological insulators, and cavity quantum electrodynamics. Over 20 former students and postdocs now hold academic or industry leadership roles. Key scientific contributions include studies on Many-Body Quantum Chaos, quantum spin ice in Rydberg atom arrays, and the interplay of symmetry breaking in vertex models. His work frequently explores connections between quantum systems and machine learning, such as neural networks’ analogies to spin glass behavior. Galitski’s affiliations include leadership roles in the Ultra-Quantum Matter Simons Collaboration, the Institute for Robust Quantum Simulation, and the Aspen Center for Physics. He has published extensively on topics like cavity-enhanced superconductivity and quantum ergodicity, with recent work addressing universal speed limits in quantum systems and interacting anomaly effects in thermal transport.
Alicia Kollár is the Chesapeake Assistant Professor of Physics at the University of Maryland, affiliated with the Joint Quantum Institute (JQI) and Quantum Technology Center. She holds a B.A. from Princeton University (2010) and a Ph.D. from Stanford University (2016). Her research focuses on quantum simulation using superconducting circuits, particularly leveraging coplanar waveguide (CPW) lattices to explore hyperbolic geometries, gapped flat bands, and photon-mediated spin models. Her work bridges condensed matter physics, quantum optics, and topological systems, with applications in quantum error correction and novel quantum materials. Key projects include creating artificial photonic materials in circuit QED, studying driven-dissipative systems, and developing experimental platforms for Floquet engineering. She has pioneered hyperbolic lattice designs enabling non-Euclidean quantum simulations and contributed to protocols for verifying quantum advantage. Her lab actively seeks postdocs and graduate students, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to quantum science and technology. Notable awards: NSF CAREER Award (2021), Princeton Materials Science Postdoctoral Fellowship (2017) Research groups: AMPED, JQI, Quantum Information and Computer Science (QuICS) Key collaborations: Andrew Houck (Princeton), JQI theorists Recent breakthroughs include demonstrating autonomously stabilized Floquet states and proposing efficient quantum verification protocols. Her work has been featured in PRX Quantum, Physical Review A/X, and Nature Communications.
Kasra Sardashti is an Assistant Professor of Physics at the University of Maryland and Principal Investigator at the Laboratory for Physical Sciences. He holds a Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from UC San Diego (2016), and previously served as Assistant Professor of Physics & ECE at Clemson University. His research focuses on hybrid superconductor-semiconductor systems for quantum information processing, sensing, and communication through the Laboratory for Band Engineering of Quantum Systems (LaBEQs). Key research areas include band engineering at superconductor-normal material interfaces, advanced materials growth, nanofabrication, and low-temperature physics. His work is supported by NSF, DOE, AFOSR, and DARPA. He has pioneered voltage-tunable superconducting devices and hybrid quantum systems, with applications in classical-quantum processors and sensors. Notable contributions include studies on niobium-germanium interfaces and epitaxial superconducting heterostructures. Education: Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering, UC San Diego (2016) Previous Roles: Research Scientist, Center for Quantum Phenomena, NYU He received the 2021 ORAU Powe Junior Faculty Enhancement Award. His lab actively recruits postdocs, graduate students (Physics/Chemistry/Engineering), and undergraduates. Recent milestones include the 2024 Summer Internship Program and graduating an M.S. student. LaBEQs emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating materials science, quantum engineering, and cryogenics. Ongoing projects explore low-loss materials for superconducting electronics and piezo-acoustic quantum transduction in complex oxide heterostructures.
Professor James Zanotti is a faculty member at the University of Adelaide, holding the position of Professor/Reader in the School of Physics, Chemistry and Earth Sciences within the Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Technology. His research focuses on advanced theoretical and computational studies of particle physics, particularly in the realm of lattice Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD). He specializes in exploring nucleon structure, quark dynamics, and the internal forces within protons using lattice simulations. His work includes groundbreaking studies on transverse force distributions, parity-odd structure functions, and the application of the Feynman-Hellmann theorem to nucleon matrix elements. Professor Zanotti is actively involved in supervising Masters and PhD students in these areas. His recent research highlights include mapping proton force distributions, constraining beyond-Standard-Model physics through nucleon charges, and investigating collective magnetic states in materials. He is affiliated with Adelaide's physics department and accessible via james.zanotti@adelaide.edu.au.
Richard Silberglitt is a Senior Physical Scientist at RAND and Professor of Policy Analysis at the RAND School of Public Policy, where he conducts interdisciplinary research at the nexus of science, technology, and public policy. With over 50 years of experience across academia, government, and industry, he is a leading expert in technology foresight, energy systems, and R&D portfolio management. His research focuses on emerging technologies , science and innovation policy , energy security , and nanotechnology . He has developed influential methodologies such as an energy scenario analysis framework and the PortMan portfolio management system, both widely applied in U.S. and international contexts. His work supports strategic planning in defense, public safety, and economic development. His recent publications reflect a strong trend toward technology foresight , critical materials supply chains , quantum technology assessment , and public sector innovation . These works often employ scenario planning, Delphi methods, and data-driven analytics to inform high-stakes policy decisions. Member, American Physical Society Member, Materials Research Society Member, American Ceramic Society As a subject matter expert, Silberglitt has advised the United Nations, U.S. Department of Defense, National Security Agency, and multiple federal agencies. He has chaired the International Advisory Board of the APEC Center for Technology Foresight and delivered testimony to U.S. Congressional committees on critical materials and technology policy. His research has been supported by grants and contracts from the U.S. Army, Navy, CDC, and National Institute of Justice. He has led major initiatives on law enforcement technology, transportation safety ( The Road to Zero ), and international technology foresight. His work often involves collaborative teams and cross-sector partnerships to address complex technological and policy challenges.
John Di Bartolo is an Industry Professor and Department Chair of Applied Physics at New York University Tandon School of Engineering , with a career spanning computational physics, sports biomechanics, and educational software development. His work bridges theoretical physics with practical applications in technology and pedagogy. Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics, Boston College (1991) Master of Science in Physics, Boston College (1993) Doctor of Philosophy in Physics, University of Virginia (1997) Research interests include Type-II superconductors , physics of sports , and innovative educational software like Physics of Sports 3.0 and Quantum Sandbox . He has pioneered computational methods in teaching and developed interactive tools for optics and quantum mechanics. His publications span from superconductivity studies in Physical Review B to cutting-edge educational software. Notable awards include the 2013 Distinguished Teacher Award . He has presented at conferences including AAPT Summer Meetings and NYU-Poly Research Expo, and featured in media outlets like WIRED Magazine and Science Channel.
Brian Appelbe is a Research Fellow in the Department of Physics at Imperial College London, affiliated with the Centre for Inertial Fusion Studies (CIFS), Plasma Physics Group, and the Faculty of Natural Sciences. His research focuses on inertial confinement fusion (ICF) and high-energy-density physics, particularly nuclear processes in ICF plasmas, neutron production, and plasma-plasma interactions. He explores applications of ICF experiments to stellar nucleosynthesis and quantum computing in plasma physics. Research topics include measuring neutron capture cross sections in excited states, optimizing neutron sources, and leveraging quantum computing for plasma modeling. He collaborates on projects at facilities like the National Ignition Facility (NIF) and Omega laser, investigating magnetic field effects in plasma dynamics and burn propagation mechanisms. His work addresses challenges like plasma temperature/density measurement, magnetic field transport in burning plasmas, and mitigating hydrodynamic instabilities. Recent articles highlight advancements in neutron spectroscopy, magnetized implosion performance, and diagnostic innovations bridging magnetic and inertial confinement fusion. Despite no listed awards, his contributions to CIFS and plasma physics research are significant. He advises on experimental platforms for magnetized implosions and explores multi-disciplinary applications of ICF diagnostics. Labs/teams include the Plasma Physics Group and CIFS, advancing ICF theory and experimental techniques.
Peter D. Dragic is an Associate Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC). His research focuses on interdisciplinary advancements in optical fiber technology, materials science, and laser systems. Dr. Dragic leads efforts to overcome nonlinear limitations in optical fibers by integrating materials science innovations with waveguide engineering, targeting applications like high-power lasers, distributed sensing, and coherent LIDAR systems. Education & Affiliations: PhD in Optical Engineering (assumed based on academic rank) Director of the Micro & Nanotechnology Lab at UIUC Collaborations with Clemson University’s COMSET center Research Interests: Design of novel optical fibers using fluorosilicate, aluminosilicate, and crystalline materials Reducing quantum defects in fiber lasers to mitigate thermal effects Development of hypersonic acoustic wave-engineered fibers for Brillouin scattering suppression Laser-based remote sensing and LiDAR systems Key Achievements: Optica Fellow recognition (2020s) Over 50 peer-reviewed publications, including high-impact studies in Optics Letters and Nature Photonics Development of sapphire-derived all-glass fibers and fluorosilicate Yb-doped fibers Grants & Funding: Air Force Office of Scientific Research (FA9550-16-1-0383) U.S. Department of Defense DE JTO (N00014-17-1-2546)
John Wright is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences at the University of California, Berkeley. His research centers on theoretical computer science with a focus on quantum computing, specifically quantum state learning, quantum complexity theory, property testing, and approximation algorithms. He is affiliated with the Simons Institute for the Theory of Computing. Education includes a Ph.D. in Computer Science from Carnegie Mellon University (2016), advised by Ryan O'Donnell, and a B.Sc. in Computer Science from the University of Texas at Austin. Research interests span quantum complexity, interactive proofs (e.g., MIP* = RE), quantum algorithms, and foundational aspects of quantum computation. His work bridges computer science, physics, and mathematics, with emphasis on understanding computational limits through quantum paradigms. Publications primarily explore quantum complexity, algorithms, and verification, with recent trends including quantum cryptography, tomography, and hardness proofs. Articles frequently involve collaborations with researchers like Thomas Vidick, Henry Yuen, and Ryan O'Donnell. Awards include the IEEE CS TCPAMI Young Researcher Award (2015). Teaching covers graduate and undergraduate courses such as CS 170 (Efficient Algorithms and Intractable Problems) and CS 294 (Quantum Complexity Theory). He advises students in quantum computing research and collaborates extensively across institutions. Labs/teams include the Quantum Computing group at UC Berkeley, with ties to the Simons Institute. Research support is managed by Amy Frithsen.
Ramses Martinez is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Industrial Engineering and Biomedical Engineering at Purdue University . He holds a B.A. in Applied Physics from Universidad Autonoma de Madrid (2004) and a Ph.D. in Physics and Materials Science from the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) in 2009. Prior to joining Purdue, he conducted postdoctoral research in the lab of Prof. George M. Whitesides at Harvard University, focusing on nanofabrication, microfluidics, and soft robotics. Education B.A. in Applied Physics, Universidad Autonoma de Madrid (2004) Ph.D. in Physics and Materials Science, Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) (2009) His research bridges soft robotics , flexible electronics , and nanofabrication , with a focus on creating self-powered e-textiles , omniphobic paper-based devices , and programmable mechanical metamaterials . His work has led to over 25 publications and 9 patents, emphasizing practical applications in health monitoring and industrial automation . Notable projects include waterproof electronic decals for biofluid monitoring, smart bandages for chronic wound detection, and laser nanoforming methods for scalable metallic structures. His research has been recognized through the Fulbright Fellowship and the Marie Curie IOF Grant .
Dr. Adelina Ilie is a Research Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of Bath, where she leads research in Nanoscience and Nanotechnology through multiple interdisciplinary centers including the Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, Condensed Matter Physics CDT, Centre for Therapeutic Innovation, Condensed Matter and Quantum Materials group, and NanoBioElectronics research. Her research spans fundamental to applied studies of functional nanomaterials with designed atomic-scale behavior. Specializing in graphene and related 2D materials as well as 2D molecular networks, her group employs advanced scanning probe microscopy techniques under ultra-high vacuum and cryogenic conditions to engineer quantum properties for novel applications in nanoelectronics, spintronics, and biomedical sensing. Her recent publications reveal strong trends in quantum materials engineering, particularly in superlattice structures, hybrid 2D systems, and bio-nano interfaces. The research demonstrates sophisticated manipulation of electronic, optical, and thermal properties at the atomic scale, with increasing focus on biomedical applications in recent years. Dr. Ilie actively supervises doctoral students and has served as external examiner for PhD theses at prestigious institutions including University of Cambridge (2024, 2021), University of Oxford (2018), and University of Southampton (2011). Her research is supported by significant grants from EPSRC, MRC, Sir Halley Stewart Foundation, and University of Bath. Her laboratory maintains state-of-the-art facilities for atomically-resolved scanning probe microscopy (STM and AFM) in ultra-high vacuum and cryogenic environments, complemented by chemical vapor deposition systems for nanomaterial fabrication. She maintains active collaborations across Bath's departments of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, Chemistry, and Biology & Biochemistry, as well as with international research institutes specializing in nanoscience.
Xifan Wu is a Professor of Physics at Temple University, specializing in computational methods and materials science. His research focuses on first-principles computational approaches, particularly exploring the locality of Wannier orbitals to address physical problems in solids and liquids. Key interests include superlattice design and applications of order-N exact exchange functionals like PBE0 and GW quasi-particle approximations. He has authored numerous high-impact publications in journals such as Physical Review Letters and Physical Review B , covering topics like ferroelectric superlattices, X-ray absorption spectroscopy, and the dielectric properties of electrolyte solutions. His work bridges quantum mechanical models with machine learning potentials, advancing large-scale simulations of complex materials. Education/Background: Not explicitly detailed in the provided text. Grants/Awards: No specific awards listed, but his research is supported by Temple University’s Center for the Computational Design of Functional Layered Materials (CCDM). Labs/Teams: Collaborates with teams focused on computational design and materials modeling, possibly through Temple’s physics department and affiliated research centers. His recent work explores molecular-scale insights into electrical double layers at oxide-electrolyte interfaces and the impact of ions on X-ray spectra, demonstrating expertise in linking theoretical models with experimental phenomena.
Dr. Rico Friedrich is a computational materials scientist leading the "Autonomous Materials Thermodynamics - AutoMaT" research group, jointly operated by the Chair of Theoretical Chemistry at Technische Universität Dresden and the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR). His work focuses on data-driven computational design of advanced materials for information technology and energy applications through the DRESDEN-concept research alliance. His research spans several cutting-edge areas: Discovery and design of 2D non-van der Waals materials with novel electronic and magnetic properties Data-driven modeling of high-entropy ceramics based on entropy maximization principles Development of computational methods for accurate thermodynamic stability prediction, particularly the coordination corrected enthalpies (CCE) method Applications of artificial intelligence in materials design Dr. Friedrich's publication record shows a strong trend toward computational materials discovery, with significant contributions to understanding non-van der Waals 2D materials and high-entropy ceramics. His work bridges theoretical developments with practical applications, resulting in publications in high-impact journals including Nature, Nano Letters, and Advanced Electronic Materials. His key scientific contributions include: Development of the coordination corrected enthalpies (CCE) method for accurate formation enthalpy calculations Creation of the AFLOW-CCE module implemented in the AFLOW software ecosystem Discovery of novel 2D non-van der Waals materials with ultra-low exfoliation energies Formulation of the disordered enthalpy-entropy descriptor (DEED) for high-entropy ceramics Dr. Friedrich actively mentors the next generation of materials scientists, currently supervising PhD students and postdoctoral researchers in his AutoMaT lab. His research group collaborates extensively within the DRESDEN-concept research alliance, leveraging computational resources and expertise across multiple institutions to advance materials science and engineering.
Ross J. Kang is a Canadian mathematician currently serving as an Associate Professor at the Korteweg–de Vries Institute for Mathematics within the Faculty of Science at the University of Amsterdam since 2022. He is an active member of the Discrete Mathematics and Quantum Information group and the NETWORKS consortium. Previously, he held positions as Assistant/Associate Professor at Radboud University Nijmegen (2014-2022), Assistant Professor at Utrecht University (2013), and Researcher at Centrum Wiskunde & Informatica (2012-2013). His academic journey includes postdoctoral positions at Durham University (2010-2012) and McGill University (2008-2010), where he was advised by Bruce Reed and Louigi Addario-Berry. DPhil in Mathematics, University of Oxford (2008) - Thesis: 'Improper colourings of graphs', advised by Colin McDiarmid BSc (Hons) in Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Victoria (2003) - Governor General's Silver Academic Medal recipient Ross J. Kang's research focuses on probabilistic and extremal combinatorics, random discrete structures, graph coloring, geometric graphs, and algorithms. His work bridges theoretical mathematics with practical applications, exploring fundamental questions in discrete mathematics. He has made significant contributions to understanding graph coloring problems, particularly in the contexts of list coloring, distance coloring, and strong coloring. His research often employs probabilistic methods to establish bounds and structural properties in graph theory. Kang's work on the hard-core model, local occupancy method, and triangle-free graphs has advanced our understanding of the interplay between local constraints and global structure in discrete systems. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on graph coloring problems, particularly list coloring variants and their extensions. His work frequently explores the relationship between graph structure (such as degree constraints, girth, or forbidden subgraphs) and coloring properties. A notable trend is his development and application of the local occupancy method to establish improved bounds for chromatic numbers in various graph classes. His research also demonstrates a consistent interest in extremal problems, seeking optimal configurations under specific constraints, particularly in the context of triangle-free graphs and geometric representations. NWO Open Competition M-1 grant entitled 'Asymptotic triangle-free structure (3Free)', 2022-2026 NWO Vidi grant entitled 'On the edge: theory and techniques at the frontiers of edge-colouring', 2017-2023 NWO Veni grant entitled 'Generalised colouring for random graph models', 2012-2015 Van Gogh travel grants (2020-2021 with Marthe Bonamy; 2016-2017 with Louis Esperet) Governor General's Silver Academic Medal (2003) Ross J. Kang has successfully supervised multiple PhD students including Eoin Hurley (defending May 2025), Stijn Cambie (defended April 2022), and François Pirot (winner of 2020 prix Charles Delorme). His research is supported by significant grants from the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO), including the prestigious Open Competition M-1 grant. Kang is actively involved in the academic community through his editorial role at Combinatorial Theory, co-organization of conferences like the Dutch Days of Combinatorics, and leadership in initiatives such as Innovations in Graph Theory, a diamond open access journal he helped launch in August 2023. As a member of the Discrete Mathematics and Quantum Information group at the University of Amsterdam and the NETWORKS consortium, Kang collaborates with researchers across various institutions. He has established strong international connections through his Van Gogh travel grants and participation in collaborative projects like the Sparse (Graphs) Coalition sessions. His research group focuses on theoretical aspects of discrete mathematics with connections to quantum information science, and he maintains active collaborations with researchers across Europe and North America.
Prof. Dr. Nadine Buczek serves as Professor of Renewable Energies, Nanotechnology and Photonics at the Department of Applied Natural Sciences, Lübeck University of Applied Sciences (TH Lübeck), a position she has held since 2017. She leads the Energy Materials Laboratory and maintains active affiliations with the Climate and Environmental Protection Group, Materials for Storage and Renewable Energy Systems, and Photovoltaics Group. Her research centers on physical principles of renewable energy systems and photonics, with core expertise in solar technology, thermoelectrics, and nanoscale material engineering. She investigates spin wave phenomena in disordered magnetic materials and develops advanced fabrication techniques for silicon nanowires and superlattices using metal-assisted chemical etching, with applications in sustainable energy conversion and storage. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications (2012-2022) reveals consistent focus on condensed matter physics and nanomaterial engineering. Key trends include theoretical modeling of spin dynamics in alloys, structural characterization of etched semiconductor nanostructures, and optimization of nanofabrication processes for renewable energy applications. Her work bridges experimental nanotechnology with computational physics, primarily targeting semiconductor-based energy solutions. The Energy Materials Laboratory under her direction drives interdisciplinary research in photovoltaics and thermoelectric materials, collaborating closely with the Materials for Storage and Renewable Energy Systems group. Current projects emphasize scalable nanofabrication methods and fundamental studies of charge transport in nanostructured materials to advance next-generation renewable energy technologies.
