Sheng Ran

Sheng Ran is an Assistant Professor of Physics at Washington University in St. Louis, affiliated with the Center for Quantum Leaps and Institute of Materials Science & Engineering. His research explores exotic quantum states in novel materials, combining bulk crystal synthesis with advanced characterization under extreme conditions (low temperatures, high pressures, strong magnetic fields). Research focuses on topological quantum materials with coexisting quantum phases like superconductivity and magnetism.

Ran's work investigates topological quantum materials where topology coexists with superconductivity, magnetism, charge density waves, or ferroelectricity. These systems exhibit exotic phenomena including quantum anomalous Hall effect, Majorana fermions, and topological axion states with potential quantum computing applications. His laboratory specializes in crystal growth, electrical/thermal transport measurements, and neutron/X-ray scattering.

Ran received the prestigious Lee Osheroff Richardson Science Prize in 2020. He teaches specialized graduate courses including 'Quantum Materials: From Synthesis to Characterization' (Physics 589), covering experimental techniques for studying quantum materials. Professional history includes postdoctoral positions at University of Maryland/NIST and UC San Diego following his PhD from Iowa State University.