Maissam Barkeshli

Maissam Barkeshli is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of Maryland, where he joined as an Assistant Professor in August 2016 and was subsequently promoted. He is also a Fellow at the Joint Quantum Institute (JQI) and affiliated with the Condensed Matter Theory Center. His work bridges theoretical physics and quantum information science, with significant contributions to topological phases of matter and quantum computing.

Education:

• PhD in Physics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (2010)
• BS in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of California, Berkeley
• BA in Physics, University of California, Berkeley

Barkeshli's research focuses on the intersection of condensed matter physics, quantum field theory, and quantum information science. He investigates complex many-body phenomena, particularly topological phases of matter, quantum entanglement, and their applications to quantum computing. More recently, he has expanded his research to include the science of deep learning, exploring fundamental principles underlying modern AI models. His work often reveals unexpected connections between seemingly disparate areas of physics and mathematics, particularly in how topological properties manifest in quantum systems.

Scientific Awards:

• Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellowship (2018)
• National Science Foundation CAREER Award

Barkeshli leads the Barkeshli Research Group at UMD, mentoring several graduate students including Chris Fechisin, Anh La, Ali Lavasani, and Naren Manjunath. His research has been supported by significant grants, including the NSF CAREER award, enabling exploration of quantum phases of matter and their potential applications in quantum information processing. His collaborative approach is evident in numerous co-authored publications with researchers across multiple institutions.

As part of the Joint Quantum Institute, Barkeshli contributes to one of the world's leading centers for quantum information science. His research group actively explores theoretical aspects of quantum computing, topological phases, and quantum entanglement, positioning them at the forefront of theoretical quantum science. Recent work has examined how crystal imperfections can reveal new topological phases of matter and how quantum computers might implement error-resistant operations through innovative approaches to quantum gates.