Fiona Burnell

Fiona Burnell is an Associate Professor in the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Minnesota, where she conducts theoretical research on exotic phases of matter beyond conventional Landau symmetry-breaking classification. Her work spans topologically ordered phases including fractional quantum Hall states and symmetry-protected topological phases such as topological insulators.

Her research focuses on understanding phase diagrams and transitions in exotic quantum systems, with particular emphasis on three-dimensional topological phases. Burnell's approach combines analytical techniques with specific model systems to uncover fundamental principles governing non-traditional quantum matter. Her fingerprint analysis reveals strong concentrations in Fermion Physics (100%), Ground State Physics (94%), Anyons (92%), Topological Order (78%), and Three-dimensional Systems (69%).

Burnell's publication record shows consistent output since 2003, with significant acceleration after 2015. Her recent work (2023-2025) demonstrates continued leadership in topological phases, with publications in high-impact journals including Physical Review Letters and Physical Review X. Her research consistently explores symmetry-protected topological phases, anyon physics, and three-dimensional topological systems, with increasing attention to systems with restrictive conservation laws and fracton physics.

• Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellowship (2015-2019)
• Emmy Noether Fellowship from Perimeter Institute (2015-2016)
• NSF CAREER Award: "Topology and Symmetry in Physics Beyond the Landau Paradigm" (2014-2019)

Burnell currently leads the active NSF project "Exploring Phases of Matter With Restrictive Conservation Laws: Anomalies, Topology, and Dynamics" (2023-2026), following completion of "Interactions, Topology, and Constraints in Emerging Phases of Matter" (2019-2023). Her research group maintains strong collaborative ties with theoretical physicists across multiple institutions, particularly in the areas of topological quantum matter and exotic phases of condensed matter systems. She has contributed to datasets related to superconductivity in layered materials, demonstrating connections between fundamental topological physics and experimental condensed matter phenomena.