Linda Young

Linda Young is an Argonne Distinguished Fellow and Professor in the Department of Physics and James Franck Institute at the University of Chicago. She is a leader in atomic, molecular, and optical physics, with a focus on fundamental X-ray interactions, nonlinear spectroscopy, and ultrafast probes of nonequilibrium systems. Her work bridges theoretical and experimental approaches, leveraging facilities like Argonne's Advanced Photon Source and SLAC's Linac Coherent Light Source.

She holds a S.B. from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (1976) and a Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley (1981).

Her research explores intense X-ray-matter interactions, nonlinear X-ray spectroscopy, and coherent ultrafast X-ray methods. Key interests include developing novel probes for atomic and molecular dynamics, advancing free-electron laser applications, and studying photon-induced processes in extreme conditions.

Her publications emphasize X-ray free-electron lasers, ultrafast chemical processes, and theoretical modeling of ionization dynamics, reflecting a consistent focus on pushing the boundaries of time-resolved X-ray science.

Awards and honors include:

• Honorary Doctorate, Uppsala University (2023)
• Helmholtz International Fellowship (2017)
• Argonne Distinguished Fellow (2007)
• University of Chicago Distinguished Performance Award (2007)
• Fellow, American Physical Society (2000)

She actively contributes to synchrotron and XFEL facilities worldwide, serving on advisory boards for institutions like the Paul Scherrer Institute and European XFEL. Her leadership includes chairing the Division of Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics at the American Physical Society.