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Zhi-Xun ShenView profile

Professor

• Condensed Matter Physics
• Materials Science
• Superconductivity
• +4 more

Zhi-Xun Shen is the Paul Pigott Professor in Physical Sciences at Stanford University, holding dual appointments in the Physics and Applied Physics Departments. He is a senior fellow at the Precourt Institute for Energy and serves on advisory boards for the Knight-Hennessy Scholars and Stanford Science Fellows programs. His research focuses on condensed matter and materials physics, particularly the electronic structures of superconductors, topological insulators, and novel materials. Dr. Shen pioneered advanced spectroscopic techniques, including photon-based imaging and scattering methods, and has authored over 600 publications with significant citation impact. His honors include the Kamerlingh Onnes Prize (2000), E.O. Lawrence Award (2010), and Oliver E. Buckley Prize (2011). He co-founded PrimeNano Inc., commercializing technologies from his lab, such as microwave impedance microscopy. His work bridges fundamental physics with energy-related applications, emphasizing the interplay between electronic structure and material properties. Dr. Shen’s research group explores cutting-edge topics like topological surface states, electron-phonon interactions, and superconductivity mechanisms. His inventions, such as non-resonance microwave imaging, have found applications in materials characterization. He remains active in advancing instrumentation and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations through his academic and industry roles.

• Nanotechnology
• Materials Science
• Photovoltaics
• +4 more

Professor Thomas Bein is affiliated with the Department of Chemistry at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU) , where he leads the Functional Nanosystems research group. His work focuses on synthesizing and characterizing nanostructured materials with applications in energy, catalysis, and biomedical delivery. Mesoporous nanoparticles for drug delivery Semiconductor nano-morphologies for photovoltaics Photoelectrochemical water splitting Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) Electroactive networks His research emphasizes atomic-scale control of material architectures using self-assembly, hydrogen bonding, and covalent interactions, enabling precise tuning of electronic, optical, and catalytic properties. A review of his recent publications reveals cutting-edge investigations into covalent organic frameworks (COFs), perovskite-inspired solar materials, and functional nanoparticle systems. Key trends include optimizing energy conversion efficiency, enhancing stability in optoelectronic devices, and exploring bio-compatible nanocarriers for targeted therapies. Professor Bein’s group actively contributes to interdisciplinary projects at the intersection of chemistry, physics, and biomedical engineering, with ongoing collaborations in solar energy, sustainable materials, and nanomedicine.

• Density Functional Theory
• Quantum Chemistry
• Solar Cells
• +4 more

Matteo Cagnoni is a Researcher at the Department of Electronics and Telecommunications (DET) of Politecnico di Torino . His research focuses on Density Functional Theory , Quantum Chemistry , and Thermoelectric Materials for Solar Cells . He is actively involved in the European Union’s MIRACLE project , developing photonic meta-concrete for radiative cooling solutions. Research Interests: Development of cement-based radiative coolers for solar cell thermal management Computational discovery of intermediate-band solar cell materials Electronic properties of semiconductors and insulators Teaching: Electronic transport in crystalline and organic semiconductors Advanced experimental physics Scientific Contributions: Matteo has published extensively on radiative cooling, perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells, and thermoelectric materials. His work spans journals like Nature Communications , Advanced Functional Materials , and Progress in Photovoltaics , with a focus on simulation engineering , photonic devices , and energy-efficient materials . Labs & Collaborations: He works within the Microwave and Optoelectronics Group (MOG) at DET, collaborating with international institutions on EU-funded projects.

Mark FosterView profile

Associate Professor

• Photonics
• Optical Systems
• Signal Processing
• +5 more

Mark Foster is an Associate Professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Johns Hopkins University, with a primary appointment in the Whiting School of Engineering. He is also a Fellow of the Hopkins Extreme Materials Institute. His research focuses on developing ultrahigh-speed optical systems at the intersection of photonics and electronics, emphasizing photonic devices and information theory to advance imaging, sensing, and communications technologies. Applications include quantum-optical systems, ultrawide-bandwidth microwave photonics, and terahertz-rate imaging systems. Dr. Foster received his BS (2003), MS (2007), and PhD (2008) in Applied and Engineering Physics from Cornell University. Before joining Johns Hopkins in 2010, he served as a postdoctoral associate there. His work has been funded by the NSF, IARPA, DTRA, and NIH, resulting in over 200 publications and eight patents. He has held leadership roles, including chairing the IEEE Photonics Society’s Baltimore chapter (2011–2014). Research Highlights: World-leading imaging systems achieving terahertz frame rates Quantum-optical platforms and nonlinear photonic materials (e.g., NbTiOx) Secure authentication via physically unclonable functions (PUFs) Applications in fusion energy diagnostics and medical imaging His awards include the NSF CAREER Award (201?), DARPA Young Faculty Award, and ONR Young Investigator Award. Current projects explore machine learning-resistant PUFs, multi-modal imaging systems, and photonics for extreme environments.

Alexander HolleitnerView profile

Professor

• Nanotechnology
• Quantum Electronics
• Optoelectronics
• +8 more

Prof. Alexander Holleitner leads the Chair of Nanotechnology and Nanomaterials at the Department of Physics, Technical University of Munich , under the Walter Schottky Institute. His research focuses on ultrafast optoelectronics, quantum optoelectronics, and excitonic systems in nanoscale circuits. Research Directions : Ultrafast optoelectronics, quantum optoelectronics, excitonic systems, THz time-domain spectroscopy, and nanofabrication of mixed organic/inorganic systems. Publications : Recent work spans hyperbolic polaritons, interlayer excitons, graphene nano-gap dynamics, and defect engineering in 2D materials. Collaborations include interdisciplinary projects with groups studying semiconductor heterostructures and quantum technologies. His lab welcomes students and researchers interested in experimental physics, quantum electronics, and nanofabrication.

• Plasma Physics
• Plasma Technology
• Thin Film Technology
• +6 more

Indrek Jõgi is an Associate Professor of Plasma Technology at the University of Tartu's Institute of Physics within the Faculty of Science and Technology. He serves as Assistant Director of the Institute of Physics and Programme Director of the Doctoral Programme in Chemical and Physical Sciences. His academic career spans over 15 years at the University of Tartu, with progressive roles from Research Fellow to his current Associate Professor position. Dr. Jõgi earned his PhD in Physics (Optics and Spectroscopy) from the University of Tartu in 2007, following a Master's degree in Applied Physics in 2003 and a diploma in Physical Information Technology in 2001. His doctoral research focused on conduction mechanisms in thin atomic layer deposited films containing TiO 2 . His research interests center on plasma physics and technology, particularly the electrical properties of thin metal-oxide films, plasma-chemistry, and thermodynamically non-equilibrium plasma properties. His work bridges fundamental plasma physics with practical applications in materials science, nuclear fusion technology, and biomedical applications. He specializes in plasma diagnostics using Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) for fusion reactor materials analysis and has made significant contributions to understanding ionization processes in various gas mixtures. His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on plasma applications for nuclear fusion materials analysis, particularly using LIBS techniques for detecting hydrogen isotopes and impurities in fusion reactor wall materials. His work spans plasma diagnostics, thin film deposition techniques like atomic layer deposition, and biomedical applications of plasma technology including cancer cell treatment research. His scientific awards include: IOP Outstanding Reviewer Award for Journal of Physics D: Applied Physics (2022) IOP Outstanding Reviewer Award for Journal of Physics D: Applied Physics (2018) III award in the PhD student category at the National Contest of Students on Scientific Research (2007) Dr. Jõgi serves in significant administrative roles including Assistant Director of the Institute of Physics and Programme Director for the Doctoral Programme in Chemical and Physical Sciences. He is the Estonian representative in the Governing Board of Fusion for Energy and the General Assembly of EUROfusion consortium. He also represents Estonia in COST Actions 23139 (from 2025) and previously served as Vice STSM Coordinator for COST Action 19110 (2020-2024). With approximately 90 peer reviews completed according to Web of Science, he is an active contributor to scholarly discourse in his field. He leads the Laboratory of Plasma Physics at the University of Tartu and is a member of the International Scientific Committee for the HAKONE symposium series on High Pressure Low Temperature Plasma Chemistry. His research team collaborates extensively with international fusion research facilities including WEST tokamak in France and Magnum-PSI in the Netherlands.

Frank L. H. BrownView profile

Professor

• Theoretical Biophysics
• Physical Chemistry
• Statistical Mechanics
• +4 more

Frank L. H. Brown is a Professor at the University of California, Santa Barbara with joint appointments in the Department of Physics and Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. His research focuses on theoretical and computational approaches to understanding biomembrane dynamics and related biophysical phenomena, situated within the College of Letters and Science. Dr. Brown's research interests span the interface between physical chemistry and biophysics. He employs a variety of theoretical tools including statistical mechanics , hydrodynamics , elasticity theory , and quantum mechanics to study complex biological systems. His work particularly emphasizes the dynamics and structure of biomembranes and the interpretation of various spectroscopy experiments including single molecule fluorescence, neutron spin echo, and flicker spectroscopy. Analysis of his publication record reveals a consistent focus on computational modeling of lipid bilayers, membrane proteins, and related phenomena, with particular emphasis on developing novel theoretical frameworks for understanding membrane behavior across multiple scales. Dr. Brown leads an active research group that includes current members Ehsan Noruzifar (Postdoctoral Researcher) and Sean Cray (Graduate Student). His former group members include numerous successful scientists such as Grace Brannigan, Brian Camley, Lawrence Lin, and Max Watson who completed their graduate studies under his supervision, along with several postdoctoral researchers. His research has been supported by funding that enables theoretical and computational investigations of biomembrane systems. The Brown Research Group operates at the intersection of physics, chemistry, and biology, with facilities connected to the Biomolecular Sciences & Engineering Program and the California NanoSystems Institute (CNSI) at UCSB. Their work combines advanced computational techniques with theoretical physics to address fundamental questions about soft and living matter systems, particularly at biological interfaces.

Alexandra GadeView profile

Professor

• Nuclear Physics
• Exotic Nuclei
• Nuclear Structure
• +5 more

Alexandra Gade is a University Distinguished Professor at the Department of Physics and Astronomy in the College of Natural Science , Michigan State University (MSU). She serves as the FRIB Scientific Director and has held leadership roles at both the National Superconducting Cyclotron Laboratory (NSCL) and FRIB. Her research focuses on the structure of exotic nuclei using radioactive isotope beams , with expertise in Coulomb excitation and nucleon knockout reactions . Education: Ph.D. in Physics (Dr. rer. nat.), University of Köln (2002) Diploma thesis, University of Köln (1998) Vordiplom, University of Köln (1995) Her nuclear structure research investigates how neutron-proton asymmetry alters nuclear properties like deformation, excitation patterns, and shell closures. She employs advanced experimental techniques at NSCL/FRIB, including the S800 spectrograph and GRETINA/SeGA gamma-ray detectors , to study exotic nuclei across the nuclear chart. Key projects include proton/neutron removal reactions and intermediate-energy Coulomb excitation , providing insights into nuclear deformation , collective modes , and single-particle orbit modifications . Recent scientific contributions focus on high-profile FRIB experiments , triaxial nuclear shapes , and shell evolution near drip lines . Her work bridges experimental observations with nuclear theory , particularly in refining shell model calculations and reaction models for exotic systems. Scientific Awards: 2023-24 Research Leadership Award (MSU) 2020 AAAS Fellow 2018 William J. Beal Outstanding Faculty Award (MSU) 2017 NatSci Outstanding Faculty Award (MSU) 2015 Zdzislaw Szymanski Prize 2014 GENCO Membership Award (GSI) 2013 APS Fellow 2010 Thomas H. Osgood Excellence in Teaching Award (MSU) 2008 Alfred P. Sloan Fellow 2008 DOE Outstanding Junior Investigator Her research group has trained numerous PhD students and postdoctoral researchers , many of whom hold academic or national laboratory positions. Collaborations include nuclear theorists , instrumentation experts , and international facilities like CERN, Argonne, and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory.

Scott HopkinsView profile

Professor

• Physical Chemistry
• Machine Learning
• Mass Spectrometry
• +2 more

Scott Hopkins is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Waterloo, specializing in Physical Chemistry. His research integrates machine learning with experimental techniques to study ion mobility, mass spectrometry, and spectroscopic analysis. He directs the Hopkins Laboratory, focusing on computational predictions of chemical behaviors and molecular interactions. His work addresses fundamental questions in gas-phase chemistry, cluster formation, and analytical method development. Research interests span physical chemistry, computational modeling, and analytical instrumentation, with a strong emphasis on developing predictive tools for complex chemical systems. Recent investigations explore ion-solvent dynamics, fragmentation mechanisms, and machine-learning applications for spectral interpretation.

• Defects in Semiconductors
• Porous AlGaN Materials
• Cathodoluminescence Spectroscopy
• +4 more

Gunnar Kusch is a Senior Research Associate at the Department of Materials Science & Metallurgy, University of Cambridge. His research focuses on defects in semiconductors, porous AlGaN materials, and advanced characterization techniques like cathodoluminescence (CL) and atom probe tomography (APT). He holds a PhD from the University of Strathclyde and leads projects on UV-B LED optimization, nanoscale defect behavior analysis, and semiconductor device design. His work bridges materials synthesis, characterization, and device performance, with applications in energy-efficient lighting and solar cell technology. Key research areas include: Defect engineering in III-nitride semiconductors Porous AlGaN templates for high-efficiency UV emitters Correlative microscopy techniques (CL, EBSD, APT) Composition-structure-property relationships in photovoltaic materials Notable contributions include developing CL-based methods for nanoscale defect analysis and demonstrating improved Cu(In,Ga)S₂ solar cell efficiencies through compositional engineering. His laboratory focuses on translating microscopic insights into macroscopic device improvements.

K.W. HippsView profile

Professor

• Surface Chemistry
• Nanotechnology
• Materials Science
• +3 more

Professor K.W. Hipps is a Regents Professor of Chemistry and Materials Science and Engineering at Washington State University (WSU). He holds multiple fellowships, including those from the American Chemical Society, American Physical Society, and American Association for the Advancement of Science. His research focuses on surfaces, interfaces, and nanotechnology, utilizing advanced techniques like Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and spectroscopy. His work explores molecular-scale processes, including surface diffusion, electron transfer, and nanoparticle properties. Education: Ph.D. in Chemical Physics from WSU (1978), followed by a postdoc at the University of Michigan. He has authored over 180 publications and received numerous awards, including the Sahlin Eminent Faculty Award and WSU Distinguished Faculty Award. Research Interests: Surface chemistry, nanotechnology, materials characterization, and molecular dynamics. His lab studies interfaces, thin films, and supramolecular assemblies using STM and spectroscopic methods. Scientific Contributions: His STM images have featured on journal covers, and his work on cobalt and copper phthalocyanines demonstrated chemical selectivity in molecular imaging. Students in his group gain expertise in microscopy, spectroscopy, and materials synthesis.

• Semiconductors
• Material Science
• Wide Bandgap Semiconductors
• +4 more

Vanya Darakchieva is a Professor in Solid State Physics at Lund University's Faculty of Engineering (LTH), serving as Principal Investigator at NanoLund: Centre for Nanoscience and Director of C3NiT: Centre for III Nitride technology. She is a core member of Lund's profile areas in Nanoscience and Semiconductor Technology, Light and Materials, and The Energy Transition, reflecting her interdisciplinary impact. Her research centers on wide bandgap semiconductors, particularly gallium nitride (GaN) and gallium oxide (Ga 2 O 3 ), with emphasis on defect engineering, electron transport, and advanced characterization techniques. She pioneers terahertz spectroscopy and electron paramagnetic resonance methods to analyze material properties critical for quantum technologies and energy-efficient electronics. Her work bridges fundamental physics with industrial applications in high-frequency devices and green semiconductor technology. Recent publications reveal a sharp focus on structural optimization of GaN crystals, doping mechanisms, and contact engineering—key bottlenecks in next-generation power electronics. Trends show increasing collaboration with international teams on epitaxial growth techniques and defect-driven property control. No scientific awards were documented in the provided text. She actively supervises PhD candidates including Logotheti, A. and Rindert, V., guiding dissertation projects within major grants. Darakchieva leads nine research projects with 150+ million SEK in funding, including two flagship Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation initiatives (2025–2030) on quantum-ready semiconductors and ceramic-to-semiconductor transformation, plus Swedish Research Council and Vinnova grants targeting terahertz characterization and III-nitride technology. Her work is anchored in NanoLund and C3NiT infrastructure, fostering cross-departmental teams for nanofabrication and device prototyping. Current efforts integrate magnetron sputtering, MOCVD growth, and in-situ characterization to solve industry challenges in thermal management and electron mobility for 6G communications and renewable energy systems.

Andreas JentysView profile

Professor

• Catalysis
• Surface Chemistry
• Material Science
• +5 more

Andreas Jentys is a Professor at the Department of Technical Chemistry within the TUM School of Natural Sciences at Technische Universität München (TUM). His research focuses on understanding surface reactions and transport phenomena in mesostructured, micro- and mesoporous oxides with acid/base or redox properties, as well as supported metal catalysts for gas and condensed phase reactions. He prepares materials with tailored functionality and studies their sorptive and catalytic properties using in situ electron and vibrational spectroscopy combined with microkinetic experiments. Education: PhD (Dr. techn.) in Chemistry from TU Wien (1991) Postdoctoral: Royal Institution of Great Britain (1992-1993) with Prof. Richard Catlow Academic Career: TU Wien (1998: Associate Professor), TUM (1999: Senior Scientist; 2011: Professor) Teaching: Active in TUM Asia since 2006 Research interests span catalysis, surface chemistry, material science, and chemical reaction engineering. He specializes in zeolites, bimetallic catalysts, and in situ spectroscopic methods. Recent work examines: Hydrogen evolution and carbon-carbon coupling on Cu Methane activation via Co²⁺ sites in ZSM-5 Photocatalytic systems using metal-organic frameworks Solvent effects in palladium-catalyzed hydrogenation CO₂ hydrogenation over bifunctional catalysts Publications trend toward heterogeneous catalysis, with emphasis on: Design of mesoporous and microporous materials Characterization of metal clusters and oxo species Microkinetic modeling of catalytic systems Environmental applications (NOx/CO₂ reduction) Hydrogen and hydrocarbon processing Teaching includes courses on: Reaction Engineering and Kinetics Industrial Chemical Processes I & II Fundamentals of Catalysis TC Praktikum (internship)

Xi LingView profile

Associate Professor

• Nanomaterials
• 2D Materials Synthesis
• Advanced Spectroscopy Techniques
• +3 more

Xi Ling is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Materials Science & Engineering at Boston University. They lead the Ling Group, which focuses on the fundamental science and applications of nanomaterials, particularly 2D van der Waals materials. Their research integrates synthesis, characterization via advanced spectroscopy, and device development for energy conversion and chemical sensing. The group utilizes facilities at the Photonics Center for cutting-edge materials analysis. Education: B.A. in Chemistry (Lanzhou University, 2007); Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry (Peking University, 2012). Research emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to synthesize novel 2D crystals, investigate their physical properties through Raman and photoluminescence spectroscopy, and engineer flexible, transparent devices. Recent publications highlight innovations in strain engineering, ferroelectricity modulation, and exciton dynamics in materials like NiPS3 and GaSe. Students gain expertise applicable to academia and industry roles in semiconductor manufacturing, materials engineering, and instrumentation. The group’s work bridges foundational science and practical applications, addressing challenges in nanoelectronics and sustainable energy technologies.

Yu HeView profile

Assistant Professor

• Condensed Matter Physics
• Quantum Materials
• Superconductivity
• +3 more

Yu He is an Assistant Professor of Applied Physics and Physics at Yale University, affiliated with the Department of Physics. His research focuses on condensed matter physics and experimental techniques such as angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES) and x-ray scattering to study correlated electronic systems and quantum materials. Prior to Yale, he completed a Miller Research Fellowship at UC Berkeley (2019) after earning his Ph.D. in Applied Physics from Stanford University. Key research areas include metal-to-insulator transitions, superconductivity, 2D magnetism, and solid-state quantum simulation. He has contributed to advancements in material characterization techniques, including high-resolution ARPES using tabletop lasers. His work integrates crystal synthesis, electric transport measurements, and surface decoration to explore material properties. Education: B.S. in Physics from University of Science and Technology of China (USTC); M.S. in Electrical Engineering and Ph.D. in Applied Physics from Stanford University. Research Interests: Experimental condensed matter physics, quantum materials, superconductivity, and light-matter interaction studies. His current projects aim to dissect microscopic degrees of freedom (electronic, lattice, spin) in novel materials using cutting-edge spectroscopic methods. The lab employs complementary techniques like electric transport measurements and crystal growth to characterize material properties comprehensively. Awards: Miller Research Fellow, UC Berkeley (2019) Advising & Grants: No student advisees listed. Research supported by Yale University and prior fellowships. Labs & Teams: Leads a research group at Yale focused on experimental condensed matter physics, collaborating on projects involving advanced material characterization and quantum material discovery.