Wilson Ho

Wilson Ho is the Donald Bren Professor and Distinguished Professor of Physics and Astronomy at the University of California, Irvine (UCI). He holds a B.S. and M.S. from Caltech (1975) and a Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Pennsylvania (1979). Prior to UCI, he was on Cornell University's faculty and worked at AT&T Bell Labs.

His research focuses on nanoscale phenomena using Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM) and Inelastic Electron Tunneling Spectroscopy (IETS). Key areas include probing atomic/molecular behavior, quantum tunneling, single-molecule chemistry, and surface magnetism. Notable achievements include observing single hydrogen atom tunneling and developing STM-based quantum sensing techniques.

Recent work includes quantum stochastic rectification in molecules and THz-driven molecular sensors. Over 20 students have graduated under his mentorship, many advancing to prestigious postdocs and industry roles. Awards include the Heinrich Rohrer Medal and National Academy of Sciences membership.

Lab activities include the Quantum Superposition Microscope, THz-STM integration, and catalytic studies on surfaces. Collaborations span institutions globally, with a focus on advancing nanoscale measurement science and molecular-level understanding.