Find Academic Supervisors

Herman L. VerlindeView profile

Professor

• String Theory
• Black Hole Physics
• Quantum Gravity
• +4 more

Herman L. Verlinde is the Class of 1909 Professor of Physics and current chair of the Department of Physics at Princeton University. He earned his Ph.D. in theoretical physics from the University of Utrecht and previously taught at the University of Amsterdam (1995–1998). His leadership role underscores his active engagement in academic governance. Verlinde's research bridges string theory , black hole physics , and quantum information . His recent work explores quantum aspects of black hole horizons, entanglement dynamics, and holographic principles. Core interests include: Quantum gravity and string theory formalisms Black hole information paradox Topological field theory applications Cosmological implications of quantum entanglement His publications consistently focus on high-energy theoretical physics, with recurring themes of holography (AdS/CFT), quantum gravity, and string-theoretic approaches to particle physics. Recent articles emphasize quantum error correction in black holes and gauge-gravity duality. Scientific Awards: IBM Einstein Fellow, Institute for Advanced Study PIONIER Fellowship (Netherlands Organization for Science) Fellow, Royal Dutch Academy of Sciences Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellowship He currently advises doctoral students including Dongyeob Kim, Tommaso Marini, and Damiano Tietto. His research group explores quantum gravity and string theory at Princeton's Jadwin Hall.

Finn LarsenView profile

Professor

• Theoretical High Energy Physics
• Quantum Gravity
• String Theory
• +2 more

Finn Larsen is a Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of Michigan, with office space in 3436 Randall Lab. He earned his Ph.D. from Princeton University (1996) and M.A. from Aarhus University, Denmark (1991). Education: Ph.D. in Physics, Princeton University, 1996 M.A. in Physics, Aarhus University, Denmark, 1991 Professor Larsen specializes in theoretical physics with a focus on the quantum description of black holes. His research explores how quantum fluctuations near black holes manifest as thermal radiation, providing insights into the quantum structure of space and time. He employs string theory and supergravity in anti-deSitter space to develop a theory of quantum gravity, with interdisciplinary connections to cosmology, quantum matter phases, and quantum information science. Larsen's publication record (2014-2023) centers on black hole entropy corrections, holographic dualities, and AdS/CFT correspondence. His work investigates logarithmic corrections in supergravity, attractor mechanisms in two-dimensional gravity, and universal entropy corrections for non-extremal black holes, advancing precise computational frameworks for quantum gravity. Larsen operates within the Randall Laboratory and Homer A. Neal Laboratory facilities, which house the University of Michigan's Physics Department infrastructure.

• Quantum Field Theory
• Quantum Gravity
• String Theory
• +5 more

Hirosi Ooguri is the Fred Kavli Professor of Theoretical Physics and Mathematics at Caltech and Director of the Walter Burke Institute for Theoretical Physics. He holds dual roles as University Professor at the University of Tokyo and former Director of the Kavli Institute for the Physics and Mathematics of the Universe (Kavli IPMU). His research focuses on quantum field theory, quantum gravity, and string theory with emphasis on interplay between physics and mathematics. Ooguri has pioneered work on topological string theory, black hole microstates, and swampland conjectures. Education: B.A. & M.A. from Kyoto University (1984-1986), Ph.D. in Physics from University of Tokyo (1989) Affiliations: Caltech faculty since 2000, Kavli IPMU Director (2018-2023) His research explores mathematical structures in quantum gravity and string theory, particularly in areas like AdS/CFT correspondence, conformal field theory, and holography. Notable contributions include foundational work on topological string invariants, black hole entropy calculations, and constraints on quantum gravity via swampland conjectures. Awards: Medal of Honor with Purple Ribbon (Japan), Guggenheim Fellowship, Hamburg Prize, Eisenbud Prize for Mathematics and Physics, and Kodansha Prize for Science Books. Ooguri has supervised over 30 Ph.D. students and advised impactful science outreach projects. He led establishment of the Walter Burke Institute for Theoretical Physics (2014) and served on global scientific leadership roles including Aspen Center for Physics President (2016-2019).

Laura BlechaView profile

Associate Professor

• Astrophysics
• Supermassive Black Hole Evolution
• Galaxy Mergers
• +3 more

Laura Blecha is an Associate Professor in the Physics Department at the University of Florida, specializing in astrophysics. Her research focuses on supermassive black hole (SMBH) and galaxy evolution through numerical simulations and observational collaborations. PhD from Harvard University (2012) Full Member of NANOGrav pulsar timing collaboration Associate Member of the LISA Consortium Her work spans three primary areas: SMBH Formation & Evolution : Origins of SMBHs, galaxy merger-driven growth, and intermediate-mass black hole demographics AGN Fueling & Feedback : Hydrodynamic simulations of AGN activation mechanisms and observational bias in AGN detection Binary SMBH Dynamics : Gravitational wave recoil effects, three-body interactions, and pulsar timing array detection strategies Recent publications (2025) focus on dual AGN detection with Keck AO, JWST studies of primordial galaxies, and NANOGrav gravitational wave background analysis. Her group develops sub-grid models for SMBH dynamics in cosmological simulations and investigates signatures of black hole mergers in galaxy clusters. Laura's research combines computational methods (Illustris, BRAHMA simulations) with observational validation through: JWST NIRSpec spectroscopy Pulsar Timing Array analysis Multiwavelength imaging campaigns

Ralph BlumenhagenView profile

Professor

• Superstring Theory
• String model building
• Heterotic strings
• +13 more

Ralph Blumenhagen is a Senior Researcher and Research Group Leader at the Max-Planck-Institut für Physik (Werner-Heisenberg-Institut) in Munich. He holds the position of Privatdozent at the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich since 2007. His academic career includes a PhD from the University of Bonn (1994), postdoctoral positions at the University of North Carolina, Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and University of Cambridge. Research Interests: Superstring Theory and its various formulations String model building including heterotic strings, D-brane models, and M/F-theory vacua Flux compactifications focusing on moduli stabilization and string cosmology String phenomenology addressing low energy effective actions, D-brane instantons, and swampland conjectures Non-geometric string backgrounds involving double field theory and non-commutative geometry His publications reveal a strong focus on theoretical foundations of string theory with applications to particle physics and cosmology. Blumenhagen's work often bridges abstract mathematical structures with potential physical implications, particularly in connecting string theory to observable phenomena. Advising: Dr. Blumenhagen has supervised numerous PhD and Master's students, with thesis topics spanning swampland conjectures, string inflation, non-geometric backgrounds, flux compactifications, and D-brane physics. His students have produced significant contributions to string phenomenology and mathematical aspects of string theory. Research Group: He leads a research group at the Max Planck Institute focused on theoretical aspects of string theory, with particular emphasis on connecting string theory to observable physics through model building and phenomenological investigations. The group maintains active collaborations with researchers worldwide.

Mathew Arun ThomasView profile

Assistant Professor

• Beyond Standard Model Particle Physics
• Extra Dimensions
• Baryon Number Violation
• +3 more

Dr. Mathew Arun Thomas is an Assistant Professor at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Thiruvananthapuram (IISER-TVM), specializing in Theoretical Particle Physics. His research focuses on phenomena beyond the Standard Model, including Baryon Number Violation, Extra Dimensions, Effective Field Theory, and Flavour Physics. Education: BSc (Hons) from St. Stephen's College, University of Delhi; MSc and PhD in Physics and Astrophysics from the University of Delhi (supervised by Prof. Debajyoti Choudhury). Postdoctoral work at the Indian Institute of Science (supervised by Prof. Sudhir K Vempati). His recent work explores Dark Matter-assisted Baryon Number Violation processes, such as Hydrogen-antihydrogen oscillation and Proton decay suppression, using six-dimensional orbifolded torus models. He also investigates constraints on Randall-Sundrum models from charge lepton flavour violations and phenomenology of low-energy Flavour Physics. The 15 most recent publications span neutrino oscillations, dark matter phenomenology, warped geometry models, and collider signatures, reflecting his expertise in connecting high-energy theory with experimental observables. Scientific Awards: INSPIRE Faculty Fellowship. He has mentored students like Akshay Anilkumar and Krishnanand N, contributing to projects on Flavour Violations and Cosmological Bounce models. He teaches courses including Quantum Field Theory and Scientific Computation, with a 2023 Mechanics course for 330 students.

Thibault DamourView profile

Professor

• General relativity
• String theory
• Gravitational waves
• +3 more

Thibault Damour is a Permanent Professor of Theoretical Physics at the Institut des Hautes Etudes Scientifiques (IHES) since 1989. His work primarily focuses on general relativity and string theory, with significant contributions to gravitational wave physics. Affiliation: IHES, Bures-sur-Yvette Membership: Académie des Sciences de Paris (Physics section), Institut de France, American Academy of Arts and Sciences (foreign honorary member) Research Interests: Damour's scholarship spans general relativity, string theory, and gravitational wave astronomy. He has pioneered theoretical frameworks for gravitational wave signals from merging compact objects. Scientific Awards: His accolades include the CNRS Gold Medal (2017), Dirac Medal (2021), and dual recognition from the Balzan Prize Foundation (2021) for gravitational wave predictions.

James UnwinView profile

Associate Professor

• Theoretical Particle Physics
• Astrophysics
• Cosmology
• +5 more

James Unwin is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), affiliated with the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. He holds a DPhil in Physics from the University of Oxford (2013) and has held postdoctoral positions at the University of Notre Dame. His research focuses on theoretical particle physics, astrophysics, and cosmology, particularly exploring physics beyond the Standard Model, dark matter models, and interdisciplinary applied mathematics. Current interests include dark matter interactions, primordial black holes, and novel experimental approaches like Coulomb explosion imaging. Research Interests: Dark Matter Models: Including freeze-in mechanisms, annihilation signatures, and cosmological constraints Particle Astrophysics: Supersymmetry, LHC searches, and Grand Unified Theories Interdisciplinary Work: Applications of mathematics to epidemiology (e.g., COVID-19 forecasts via stock market indicators) and social dynamics Recent publications emphasize ultrafast molecular dynamics, XUV spectroscopy, and cosmological impacts of primordial black holes. He has advised PhD students Prolay Chanda and Qingyun Wang, both advanced to candidacy in 2021. Professional activities include visiting roles at UC Berkeley (2022–2023) and a Distinguished Academic Visitor appointment at Queen’s College, Oxford (2023). Affiliations: UIC Department of Physics Adjunct roles at UC Berkeley and University of Oxford Collaborations with institutions like Fermilab and CERN

Laura Mersini-HoughtonView profile

Professor

• Cosmology
• Theoretical Physics
• Quantum Physics
• +6 more

Laura Mersini-Houghton is a Professor of Theoretical Physics and Cosmology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She is affiliated with the Gravity, Cosmology, and HEP (GCHEP) theory group and the Institute of Field Physics , supported by the Bahnson Fund. Her research spans three main areas: origins of the universe, dark energy, and quantum black hole physics. Her work includes proposing a quantum landscape multiverse theory to explain the universe's origin, with predictions tested by PLANCK and LHC experiments. She has also demonstrated that Hawking radiation back-reaction prevents singularity formation in collapsing stars. Education : PhD in Physics (University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, 2000), MSc (University of Maryland-College Park, 1997), Fulbright Scholar (University of Maryland, 1994). Key trends in her recent publications include cosmological tensions, quantum multiverse implications, and time crystal-based dark energy models. She co-authored works on inflationary cosmology and cosmic probes of fundamental physics. Scientific Awards : UWM Distinguished Alumni She has been featured in media coverage and public talks, exploring topics like the arrow of time and cosmic puzzles. Her research integrates theoretical physics, string theory, and observational cosmology, supported by the Bahnson Fund.

Stephen ShenkerView profile

Professor

• quantum gravity
• string theory
• M theory
• +3 more

Stephen Shenker is the Richard Herschel Weiland Professor of Physics at Stanford University, where he has been a faculty member since 1998. He previously served as a professor at Rutgers University (1989-1998) and as an Assistant to Full Professor at the University of Chicago (1981-1989). Shenker also directed the Stanford Institute for Theoretical Physics from 1998 to 2009. Shenker's research focuses on quantum gravity, particularly string theory and M theory, with emphasis on nonperturbative aspects. His work has significantly advanced our understanding of gauge theories, conformal field theory, matrix models of string theory, D-branes, and the connection between quantum gravity and quantum chaos. He has made foundational contributions to the field of string theory, including the discovery of Matrix Theory, which provides a nonperturbative definition of String/M theory. His recent publications demonstrate a consistent focus on eternal inflation, the string theory landscape, de Sitter space, and holographic principles, reflecting his ongoing investigation into the deepest questions of theoretical physics and cosmology. Shenker's work often intersects with that of Leonard Susskind, with whom he shares the 2023 Dirac Medal. Member, National Academy of Sciences (2015) Lars Onsager Prize, American Physical Society (2010) Dean's Award for Distinguished Achievements in Teaching, Stanford University (2007) Fellow, American Academy of Arts and Sciences (2006) Fellow, American Physical Society (2003) Fellow, MacArthur Foundation (1987) Shenker has advised numerous doctoral students and postdoctoral researchers at Stanford, contributing significantly to the education of the next generation of theoretical physicists. His teaching excellence has been recognized with multiple awards, including Stanford's Dean's Award for Distinguished Achievements in Teaching.

• Theoretical Physics
• Quantum Gravity
• String Theory
• +3 more

Dr. Ben Freivogel is a faculty member at the Faculty of Science of the University of Amsterdam. His contact information includes the email address B.W.Freivogel@uva.nl and phone numbers +31 (0)20 525 7041 and +31 (0)6 87 07 09 29. He is based at Science Park 904, Room C4.158, in Amsterdam. Freivogel's research interests fall under Theoretical Physics , with a focus on Quantum Gravity and String Theory . His work is affiliated with the Institute for Theoretical Physics (ITF) at the University of Amsterdam, where he engages in advanced theoretical research.

Alexander D MaloneyView profile

Professor

• Theoretical Physics
• Quantum Information Theory
• Black Holes
• +4 more

Alexander D Maloney serves as the Kathy and Stan Walters Endowed Professor of Quantum Science and Director of the Institute for Quantum and Information Science at Syracuse University's College of Arts and Sciences, Department of Physics. His leadership bridges theoretical physics and quantum information science through institutional and research initiatives. His academic foundation includes a Ph.D. in Physics from Harvard University (2003) with dissertation "Time-Dependent Backgrounds of String Theory," complemented by dual B.Sc. and M.Sc. degrees in Physics and Mathematics from Stanford University (1998). Maloney's research centers on quantum gravity and information theory, exploring black hole physics through string theory frameworks. His work connects quantum field theory, cosmology, and information paradox resolution, with particular focus on wormhole geometries, resurgence phenomena, and holographic dualities. This interdisciplinary approach examines how quantum information principles shape spacetime structure. Recent publications reveal evolving emphasis on Narain ensemble statistics, modular invariance applications, and quantum cosmology in reduced dimensions. His 2020-2025 output demonstrates methodological progression from semiclassical gravity to non-perturbative quantum gravity techniques, increasingly integrating machine learning concepts with theoretical frameworks. His scientific recognition includes: James McGill Professor at McGill University (2023) Sir William Macdonald Chair in Physics at McGill University (2020) Maloney secures major research funding including NSERC Discovery Grants (2015-2020, 2020-2025) and Simons Foundation's "It from Qubit" collaboration (2015-2022). He actively shapes academic discourse through search committee leadership, journal reviewing (Journal of High Energy Physics since 2007), and international conference organization at Aspen Center for Physics and Institute for Advanced Study. As Director of Syracuse's Institute for Quantum and Information Science, he cultivates collaborative research environments exploring quantum gravity applications to quantum computing and cosmological modeling.

G. Scott WatsonView profile

Professor

• Early Universe Cosmology
• Inflation
• Dark Matter
• +3 more

Prof. G. Scott Watson is a Professor in the Department of Physics at Syracuse University, affiliated with the College of Arts & Sciences. His research focuses on the interplay between fundamental particle physics and cosmology, particularly early universe cosmology, inflationary models, dark matter/energy, and string theory applications. He holds a Ph.D. in Physics from Brown University (2005) and B.S. degrees in Mathematics and Physics from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington (2000). Key research interests include string phenomenology as a quantum gravity framework, probing inflationary scenarios through cosmic microwave background (CMB) studies, and exploring dark matter origins. He leads major projects like CMB-S4 and contributes to the CMBPol mission concept. Watson has received the American Physical Society Outstanding Referee Award (2021) and serves on high-profile collaborations such as the Inflation Probe Study Analysis Group (IPSAG). Teaching responsibilities include advanced courses like Quantum Field Theory, Relativity and Cosmology, and Quantum Mechanics II. He actively mentors students through independent studies and advises on graduate admissions. Watson has secured significant grants, including a Department of Energy-funded project on theoretical particle physics and cosmology (2013–2025) and NSF support for cosmic acceleration research (2018–2023).

Kari RummukainenView profile

Professor

• Theoretical Particle Physics
• Cosmology
• Lattice Gauge Theory
• +1 more

Kari Rummukainen is a Professor at the Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, University of Helsinki. His research focuses on theoretical particle physics and cosmology , particularly using computational methods . He leads the Computational Field Theory research group . Research keywords include: Physical sciences High Energy Physics Cosmology Lattice Gauge Theory Scientific awards: Finnish Academy of Sciences and Letters: 2008 Vaisala prize (awarded in Dec 2006) Current projects: Avaruuden ja kosmologian tutkimus (2024–2030) - University of Helsinki Funds CoCoS AdG (2024–2029) - European Research Council Particle cosmology and gravitational waves (2024–2027) - Academy of Finland

Michael DineView profile

Professor

• Theoretical Physics
• High Energy Physics
• Supersymmetry
• +6 more

Michael Dine is a Professor of Physics at the University of California at Santa Cruz (UCSC) since at least 2004, with a B.A. from Johns Hopkins University (1974) and a Ph.D. from Yale University (1978) . He is renowned for his contributions to supersymmetry, string theory, and physics beyond the Standard Model , including co-developing the Invisible Axion model and pioneering work in dynamical supersymmetry breaking. His textbook Supersymmetry and String Theory: Beyond the Standard Model (Cambridge University Press) is a key resource in the field. Research Focus: Addressing unanswered Standard Model questions (hierarchy problem, strong CP problem, dark matter) via supersymmetry, string theory, and effective field theory. Teaching: Courses like Advanced Quantum Field Theory (Physics 222), General Relativity (Physics 171), and independent studies on quantum field theory. Scientific Awards: Inducted into the American Academy in 2010. Key Trends in Research: Dine's work bridges theoretical particle physics with cosmology, focusing on supersymmetry breaking mechanisms, axion cosmology, and the string theory landscape's implications for LHC experiments. His publications and lectures emphasize robust predictions of string theory and the interplay between high-energy physics and early universe phenomena.