Daniel Lathrop

Daniel Lathrop is a Professor of Physics and Geology at the University of Maryland (UMD), and a Fellow of the American Physical Society. He joined UMD in 1997 following postdoctoral roles at Yale and faculty positions at Emory University. His research spans nonlinear dynamics, quantum science, and geophysical fluid dynamics. Lathrop directs the Nonlinear Dynamics Laboratory, focusing on experiments simulating Earth’s core (e.g., the 3-meter liquid sodium spherical Couette experiment) and superfluid helium phenomena.

Education: B.A. in Physics (UC Berkeley, 1987), Ph.D. in Physics (University of Texas at Austin, 1991).

Research emphasizes turbulent flows in rotating systems, magnetic field generation (dynamo effects), and quantum fluid behavior. His lab integrates machine learning for prediction of magnetic field evolution and turbulence dynamics. Collaborations include developing UAV-based geophysical sensors for landmine detection and advancing stochastic computing hardware using magnetic tunnel junctions.

Awards include the NSF Presidential Early Career Award (1997), APS Stanley Corrsin Award (2012), and UMD Distinguished Scholar-Teacher designation. He served as Director of the Institute for Research in Electronics and Applied Physics (2006–2012).

Advising: Supervised numerous graduate students in experimental physics and geophysics. Active in interdisciplinary projects combining fluid dynamics, quantum science, and machine learning.

Labs/Teams: Nonlinear Dynamics Laboratory, Quantum Materials Center, and Institute for Research in Electronics & Applied Physics (IREAP). Research themes include planetary magnetic field modeling, turbulence in extreme conditions, and novel computing hardware inspired by physical systems.