Gretchen Campbell

Gretchen Campbell is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Maryland and Co-Director of the Joint Quantum Institute (JQI). Her research focuses on ultracold atomic gases, particularly Bose-Einstein condensates (BECs) and their applications in studying quantum fluids and superfluidity. She leads experiments on atom circuits and ultracold strontium systems, exploring analogs of superconducting electronics and cosmological phenomena. Key projects include persistent currents in superfluid rings, Rayleigh-Taylor instabilities in quantum fluids, and grating magneto-optical trapping techniques. Her work bridges quantum simulation, condensed matter physics, and precision measurement.

Recent advancements include the creation of sodium BECs in hybrid traps and strontium BECs for quantum simulation. She has pioneered atomtronic devices, such as superfluid SQUID analogs, and used expanding BECs to model cosmic phenomena like Hubble friction. Campbell also holds an appointment as Associate Vice President overseeing UMD’s quantum initiatives, reflecting her leadership in quantum science education and research.

• Research Groups: JQI, RQS (Quantum Simulation Group)
• Labs: Sodium Atom Circuits Lab, Ultracold Strontium Experiment

Her team includes graduate students and postdocs working on topics like quantum control systems, narrow-line spectroscopy, and experimental instrumentation. Notable contributions include the development of programmable systems for atomic physics and ultra-low noise drivers for precision experiments.