معرفی
Thomas Folland is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Iowa, specializing in condensed matter and materials physics. His research focuses on mid- and far-infrared nanophotonics, quantum materials, and their applications in device development. He joined the university in Fall 2020 and leads the Quantum Nanophotonic Materials Lab, exploring infrared detectors, light sources, and nanophotonic systems.
He holds a PhD from the University of Manchester and conducted postdoctoral research in Vanderbilt University’s Mechanical Engineering lab, where he developed infrared spectroscopy techniques for nanophotonics. His work integrates physics, materials science, electrical engineering, and chemistry, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration with national and international institutions.
Research interests include surface polaritons in low-symmetry crystals, wide band gap semiconductors, and 2D materials. Students in his lab engage in infrared spectroscopy, device fabrication, and computational modeling. Folland is active in early-career researcher support through the MRS Early Career Subcommittee, advocating for career development programs.
His lab addresses challenges in polariton engineering, thermal emission control, and optoelectronic systems, with applications in sensing, imaging, and quantum technologies. Key achievements include studies on isotopically pure hBN, hyperbolic polaritons in gallium oxide, and tunable VO2 thin films.
