Paola Barbara

Paola Barbara is a Professor in the Department of Physics at Georgetown University. She holds a Ph.D. in Physics from the Technical University of Denmark and an M.S. from the University of Salerno, Italy. Her research focuses on nanoscale materials and devices, including carbon nanotubes, graphene, and layered materials like MoS2. She investigates quantum transport, superconductivity, and novel nanoscale devices such as THz detectors and photovoltaic cells. Dr. Barbara has received prestigious awards, including the NSF PECASE (2003) and a Research Innovation Award from Research Corporation.

Her work spans experimental and theoretical studies of 2D materials, with emphasis on optoelectronic applications. Key projects include graphene quantum dot bolometers for high-frequency detection and exploring magnetic interactions in single-molecule magnets integrated with graphene platforms. Recent research includes Floquet engineering in graphene under mid-infrared irradiation and defect-induced cooling effects in hot-electron devices.

• Educations:
  • M.S. in Physics (Laurea in Fisica), University of Salerno, Italy (1991)
  • Ph.D. in Physics, Technical University of Denmark (1995)
• Awards:
  • NSF PECASE (2003)
  • Research Innovation Award (Research Corporation)

Her lab explores interfaces between nanomaterials and electromagnetic phenomena, with applications in sensing, photonics, and quantum technologies. Ongoing projects include THz spectroscopy and magnetic-field effects in nanoscale systems.