Matthew Pelton

Matthew Pelton is Professor and Department Chair in Physics at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County's College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences. His research focuses on experimental nanophotonics, investigating light-matter interactions at the nanoscale using optical techniques to study quantum phenomena in materials. Key areas include quantum photonics, nanoscale energy transfer, and semiconductor quantum dot physics.

His work examines fundamental processes in quantum-confined systems, aiming to advance technologies in quantum information processing, solar energy conversion, and nanoscale sensing. Research combines materials physics with quantum information science to probe dynamical processes in nanoscale materials through advanced spectroscopy.

Recent publications demonstrate a consistent focus on quantum light sources, silicon photonics integration, and nanocavity engineering. Trends include developing telecom-band quantum emitters, optimizing color-center LEDs, and controlling excitonic coupling in bioinspired systems. Work frequently combines experimental spectroscopy with computational modeling of nanoparticle optical properties.

As director of the Laboratory for Optical Studies of Nanoscale Physics, he maintains rigorous safety protocols for laser operations, chemical handling, and data management. The lab emphasizes collaborative research principles and provides training opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students in nanophotonics experimentation.