Matt Dawber

Matt Dawber is the Richard A. Dennis Professor and Chair of the Department of Physics at the University of Vermont (UVM). He holds a PhD from the University of Cambridge (2003) and a B.Sc. from the University of New South Wales (1999). His research focuses on ferroelectric materials, epitaxial thin films, and oxide superlattices, emphasizing interfacial coupling in superlattice systems. Prior to UVM, he was on the faculty at Stony Brook University (2008–2024) and a postdoc at the University of Geneva (2004–2007).

Education:

• Ph.D. in Physics, University of Cambridge, UK (2003)
• B.Sc. (Hons) in Physics, University of New South Wales, Australia (1999)

Research Interests: His work explores the growth, characterization, and functional properties of ferroelectric materials, with a focus on superlattices where interfacial interactions enhance or create novel behaviors. Techniques include in-situ x-ray diffraction at NSLS-II and advanced nanoscale measurements. Key topics include domain dynamics, photocatalytic water splitting, and strain engineering in oxide heterostructures.

Advising & Grants: Dawber has advised over 20 graduate and undergraduate students, many of whom hold academic or industry roles globally. His research is supported by grants such as the NSF CAREER Award. He collaborates with institutions like Brookhaven National Laboratory and the Max Planck Institute.

Labs & Teams: His UVM research group studies ferroelectric superlattices, photocatalysis, and nanoscale material characterization. The lab uses advanced deposition and characterization tools, including off-axis RF magnetron sputtering and synchrotron-based techniques.