Sheldon Schultz

Sheldon Schultz is a Research Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), where he has been a key figure since joining in 1960. He served as Director of the Center for Memory and Recording Research (CMRR) from 1990 to 2000 and continues to contribute to cutting-edge research in metamaterials and electromagnetic phenomena.

Research Interests: Professor Schultz's work centers on metamaterials, particularly the development of left-handed materials and the experimental realization of negative refractive index. His research spans plasmon resonant particles, photonic band gap structures, microwave spectroscopy, and sub-wavelength antennas. He also explores applications in near-field optical microscopy and advanced instrumentation for material and biomedical analysis.

His seminal contributions were recognized by Science magazine as one of the top breakthroughs of 2003. Though no recent publications are listed, his research trajectory emphasizes experimental physics and electromagnetic material engineering.

• Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellowship (1964–1966)
• Science Magazine: Top Ten Breakthroughs of 2003 (ranked #8)
• Namesake of the Sheldon Schultz Prize for Excellence in Graduate Student Research (established 2003)

Professor Schultz has mentored numerous graduate students through his leadership at CMRR, though specific advisees are not listed. He led the Center from 1990 to 2000, during which time he secured research funding and fostered innovation in information storage and magnetic materials. His legacy continues through the annual Schultz Prize, which supports outstanding graduate research at CMRR.

He was instrumental in establishing CMRR as a leading research center in memory and recording technologies. His work involved close collaboration with engineers and physicists, contributing to interdisciplinary projects in nanophotonics, magnetic systems, and sensor development.