Nini Pryds is a Professor and Head of the research section 'Functional Oxide Materials' at the Department of Energy Conversion and Storage, Technical University of Denmark (DTU). He leads a team of 25+ researchers focusing on memristors, piezoelectricity, thermoelectricity, electrostriction, and functional oxide thin films. His work bridges physics and chemistry to design novel electronic states in oxide interfaces. Education: UDTU (likely Technical University of Denmark, potential typo). External roles include Editor of Applied Surface Science and Editorial Board Member of APL-Materials . Research interests revolve around quantum phenomena in oxide interfaces, stability enhancement of ionic conductors via coherent interface design, and mechanically tunable magnetism. Key contributions include modulation-doping at oxide interfaces, high mobility 2DEG discovery, and stabilizing δ-Bismuth oxide through multilayer structures. Recent publications emphasize oxide metamaterials, strain-mediated properties, and defect dynamics. Supervises active PhD projects on oxide heterostructures, thermoelectrics, and piezoelectricity. His work aligns with UN Sustainable Development Goals related to clean energy and innovation.
Professor Jasper van Wezel is a distinguished academic in the field of Condensed Matter Theory at the University of Amsterdam's Faculty of Science, where he serves as Professor in the Institute for Theoretical Physics (ITFA) within the Institute of Physics. With a career spanning over two decades, he has progressed from Assistant Professor (2014-2016) to Associate Professor (2016-2024) and currently holds the position of Professor since 2024. His academic journey began with a PhD in theoretical condensed matter physics from Leiden University in 2007, followed by prestigious fellowships at Argonne National Laboratory and Homerton College, Cambridge. PhD in theoretical condensed matter physics (cum laude), Leiden University, 2007 Master's diploma in theoretical condensed matter physics (cum laude), Leiden University, 2003 Dutch VWO Diploma (cum laude), Dalton Scholengemeenschap, Den Haag, 1997 US High School Diploma (cum laude), Sanford High School, Maine, USA, 1998 Professor van Wezel's research focuses on several interconnected areas within Condensed Matter Theory. His work explores competing instabilities in Charge Density Wave materials, including Superconductivity and Charge Order, Combined Charge and Orbital Order, and Transition-metal dichalcogenides. He has made significant contributions to Topology in Condensed Matter, particularly examining the Role of crystal symmetries and Topology in non-Hermitian systems. A major theme in his research involves investigating the Connections between Quantum and Classical behaviour, with special emphasis on Spontaneous Symmetry Breaking both in equilibrium (The role of the Thin Spectrum) and dynamically (Spontaneous loss of Unitarity). Analysis of Professor van Wezel's recent publications reveals a strong focus on quantum phenomena in condensed matter systems, with particular attention to topological aspects, symmetry breaking, and connections to fundamental physics concepts like black hole thermodynamics. His work often bridges theoretical concepts with potential experimental realizations, as evidenced by studies on electron patterns in materials like TaS2 and theoretical frameworks for understanding quantum phase transitions. Bristol Physics Teaching Award (2014) Students' Award for Outstanding Teaching (2014) Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (2014) Aneesur Rahman Fellowship at Argonne National Laboratory (2010-2012) Junior Research Fellowship at Homerton College, Cambridge (2007-2010) Physics 'Discovery of the year' by Leiden University Physics department (2005) 'Onderwijsprijs Natuurkunde' teaching award (2004/2005) Professor van Wezel has secured numerous research grants including an ENW-M grant (2023), an ENW-Groot project with Leiden University (2021), and a prestigious VIDI personal grant from NWO (2014). He has supervised over 50 students at various levels, including PhD candidates, MSc students, and BSc students, fostering the next generation of physicists. His leadership extends to organizing conferences, serving on PhD committees, and holding administrative roles such as chair of the educational committee for the Dutch Research School in Theoretical Physics. His research group at the University of Amsterdam's Institute for Theoretical Physics maintains active collaborations with institutions worldwide, including Leiden University, University of Cambridge, University of Bristol, and research centers in France, Germany, and Poland. The group's work combines analytical theoretical approaches with computational methods to tackle fundamental questions in quantum condensed matter physics.
Yu He is an Assistant Professor of Applied Physics and Physics at Yale University, affiliated with the Department of Physics. His research focuses on condensed matter physics and experimental techniques such as angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES) and x-ray scattering to study correlated electronic systems and quantum materials. Prior to Yale, he completed a Miller Research Fellowship at UC Berkeley (2019) after earning his Ph.D. in Applied Physics from Stanford University. Key research areas include metal-to-insulator transitions, superconductivity, 2D magnetism, and solid-state quantum simulation. He has contributed to advancements in material characterization techniques, including high-resolution ARPES using tabletop lasers. His work integrates crystal synthesis, electric transport measurements, and surface decoration to explore material properties. Education: B.S. in Physics from University of Science and Technology of China (USTC); M.S. in Electrical Engineering and Ph.D. in Applied Physics from Stanford University. Research Interests: Experimental condensed matter physics, quantum materials, superconductivity, and light-matter interaction studies. His current projects aim to dissect microscopic degrees of freedom (electronic, lattice, spin) in novel materials using cutting-edge spectroscopic methods. The lab employs complementary techniques like electric transport measurements and crystal growth to characterize material properties comprehensively. Awards: Miller Research Fellow, UC Berkeley (2019) Advising & Grants: No student advisees listed. Research supported by Yale University and prior fellowships. Labs & Teams: Leads a research group at Yale focused on experimental condensed matter physics, collaborating on projects involving advanced material characterization and quantum material discovery.
Turan Birol is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science at the University of Minnesota, with a secondary appointment in the School of Physics. He leads the Theoretical Materials Physics Group , focusing on computational materials design to discover exotic condensed matter phenomena. Education: PhD in Physics (Cornell University), Postdoc (Rutgers University) Research Areas: Ferroelectricity, Charge Density Waves, Multiferroics, Strongly Correlated Systems, Kagome Metals His work combines Density Functional Theory with Dynamical Mean Field Theory to study materials like perovskites, layered antiperovskites, and 2D/3D compounds. Recent projects include Office of Naval Research -funded ferroelectric design and NSF Discovery File -featured transparent conductors. Scientific contributions include 15+ recent articles on topics spanning structural chirality in superconductors, strain-tuned magnetism, and catalytic resonance theory. Former advisees include PhD graduates in Physics and Materials Science.
Professor Tom Allison leads an active research group at Stony Brook University focusing on ultrafast laser spectroscopy and nonlinear optics. His laboratory specializes in time- and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (tr-ARPES) and frequency comb laser development for studying ultrafast dynamics in novel materials. His research interests center on understanding electron dynamics in two-dimensional materials, particularly graphene and transition metal dichalcogenides. Using sophisticated tr-ARPES instrumentation, his group investigates pseudospin dynamics, valley polarization, and exciton coupling with unprecedented momentum and energy resolution. The research bridges condensed matter physics, quantum materials, and ultrafast optical science. Professor Allison's recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on 2D materials physics, with particular attention to momentum-resolved phenomena in graphene and TMD heterostructures. His group combines cutting-edge experimental techniques with theoretical modeling to unravel complex ultrafast processes at the quantum level. Scientific Recognition: DOE Office of Science Highlight for work on valley polarization dynamics in monolayer WS2 NSF Major Research Instrumentation grant for developing high-power frequency combs Marie Skłodowskiej-Curie fellowship awarded to group member Grzegorz Professor Allison has successfully mentored multiple graduate students to completion of their degrees, including PhD candidates Jin Bakalis and Myles Silfies, and MS student Michael Wahl. His former postdoc Alice Kunin has secured an assistant professor position at Princeton University. Current research is supported by NSF funding for developing advanced frequency comb technology spanning from THz to soft x-ray regions.
Yong Chen is a Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering and Physics at Purdue University. His research spans quantum physics, nanotechnology, and materials science, focusing on advanced 2D materials, topological insulators, and quantum transport phenomena. Condensed Matter Physics Quantum Computing Nanotechnology Materials Science Photonics Spintronics Recent publications highlight his work on van der Waals heterostructures, Bose-Einstein condensates, Raman spectroscopy applications, and quantum interference effects. His studies often intersect with machine learning, energy storage, and synthetic magnetic field engineering of quantum systems. Yong Chen's email address is yongchen@purdue.edu , and further information can be accessed at his Purdue University profile .
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)United States
David Hsieh is the Donald A. Glaser Professor of Physics at the California Institute of Technology and has served as Executive Officer for Physics since 2023. He earned his B.S. from Stanford University (2003) and Ph.D. from Princeton University (2009). His academic career at Caltech progressed from Assistant Professor (2012-18) to Professor (2018-22) and Glaser Professor (2022-). Research Focus: Novel quantum electronic phases in solids, nonlinear optical spectroscopy, angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy, time-resolved optical spectroscopy Dr. Hsieh’s recent publications span quantum materials, magnetic order, and ultrafast optical phenomena, with a particular emphasis on exciton dynamics and topological band structures. His work has been recognized through the prestigious Moore Experimental Physics Investigator award (2022). Scientific Awards Moore Experimental Physics Investigator The Hsieh Group develops advanced laser-based techniques to investigate and control quantum phases of matter, focusing on materials like Sr3Ir2O7, Ca2RuO4, and EuTiO3.
Peter Oppeneer is a Professor in the Materials Theory group within the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Uppsala University, Sweden. His research program focuses on theoretical condensed matter physics with emphasis on ultrafast phenomena and magnetic materials. His research interests span femtosecond magnetism, ultrafast spin and orbital currents, out-of-equilibrium magnon and phonon dynamics, unconventional superconductivity, multipolar and hidden order parameters, and orbitronics. The group develops both analytical theories and numerical simulation codes, combining ab initio methods with model Hamiltonian approaches. Key research thrusts include ultrafast demagnetization mechanisms, spin-crossover materials, molecular spintronics, and topological quantum states in magnetic materials. Analysis of recent publications reveals strong focus on altermagnetism, terahertz spin dynamics, Dirac semimetals, and laser-induced phase transitions. The group's work bridges fundamental quantum theory with applications in next-generation spintronic devices and ultrafast magnetic switching technologies. Collaborative activities include work with experimental groups on ultrafast spectroscopy, X-ray magnetic circular dichroism, and terahertz emission studies. The group maintains active collaborations across Europe and internationally, particularly in the areas of femtosecond magnetism and topological materials. Research infrastructure includes development of specialized computational codes for Eliashberg theory, dynamical mean field theory, and ultrafast spin dynamics simulations. The group contributes to major international facilities including synchrotron and free-electron laser sources for time-resolved studies.
Mengke Liu is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physics at the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Texas at Dallas. They lead the Liu Quantum Matter Lab, focusing on experimental studies of quantum materials through advanced techniques like ultra-low temperature scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and 2D transport measurements. Their research aims to uncover novel quantum phenomena and advance quantum technologies. Their research interests span quantum materials , with particular emphasis on topological insulators , strongly correlated electron systems , 2D semiconductors , and magnetic heterostructures . The lab explores fundamental interactions in exotic materials such as MnBi2Te4, Fe3GeTe2, and NbSe2 monolayers, combining experimental precision with theoretical insights. Recent publications highlight investigations into Dirac mass gaps , Kondo effects , and charge density waves in van der Waals systems. Their work demonstrates technical mastery in molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) and nanojunction fabrication , with recurring themes of defect control and quantum confinement shaping material properties. The Liu Quantum Matter Lab actively mentors students and maintains a collaborative environment with access to state-of-the-art cryogenic and high-field instrumentation. They offer postdoctoral opportunities focused on experimental innovation in quantum material characterization.
Brian Møller Andersen is a Professor in Solid State Physics at the Niels Bohr Institute, University of Copenhagen, where he has maintained continuous academic appointments since completing his PhD. His research spans multiple frontiers of condensed matter physics with significant contributions to superconductivity and magnetism. PhD in Theoretical Physics, University of Copenhagen (2001-2003) PhD studies at Stanford University (2000-2001) MSc in Theoretical Physics, University of Copenhagen (1998-2000) International Exchange at UC Berkeley (1997-1998) BSc in Mathematics and Physics, University of Copenhagen (1994-1997) Andersen's primary research focuses on Superconductivity , particularly high-temperature superconductors where magnetism and superconductivity coexist, and Magnetism in novel quantum materials. His work extends to Quantum Transport phenomena, Ultracold Atoms in optical lattices, Topological Insulators , and Strongly Correlated Systems . Recent publications reveal a growing emphasis on altermagnetism, kagome lattice physics, and topological superconductivity, indicating significant evolution in his research trajectory toward emergent quantum phenomena. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2024-2025) shows a clear progression into cutting-edge areas: 60% focus on altermagnetism and novel magnetic states, 40% on unconventional superconductivity in topological materials, and 30% examining quantum confinement effects. His work demonstrates increasing interdisciplinary connections between condensed matter theory, materials science, and quantum information science, with frequent collaborations across Europe and the US. Andersen has received significant research support through prestigious fellowships including the Lundbeck Foundation fellowship (Associate Professor level, 2012-2017) and FNU Steno Stipend (Assistant Professor level, 2009-2013), alongside early career support from the Villum Kann Rasmussen Post. Doc. Stipend. His research group at the Niels Bohr Institute focuses on theoretical modeling of quantum materials, particularly computational approaches to understanding competing orders in correlated electron systems. The group maintains strong connections with experimental teams conducting neutron scattering, STM, and ARPES measurements to validate theoretical predictions.
Deyu Lu is a Physicist with continuing appointment at the Center for Functional Nanomaterials (CFN), Brookhaven National Laboratory, a position held since 2018, and concurrently serves as an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Stony Brook University since 2012. His work bridges theoretical physics and materials engineering through advanced computational methodologies. Dr. Lu's educational background includes: B.S. in Physics, Tsinghua University, China, 1997 M.S. in Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 2000 Ph.D. in Physics, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 2000 His research centers on developing first-principles computational methods including density functional theory and many-body perturbation theory to investigate materials properties. Current focus areas encompass catalytic behavior of 2D zeolites, computational modeling of X-ray spectroscopy (XPS/XAS/XES) for catalysis and battery systems, and machine learning applications for structure-property relationship analysis. This work positions him at the intersection of computational physics, materials characterization, and data science. Analysis of his 2017-2024 publications reveals a progressive integration of machine learning with spectroscopic techniques, particularly in X-ray absorption analysis. Key contributions include the Lightshow Python package for computational spectroscopy inputs and methods for decoding structure-spectrum relationships using physically constrained latent spaces, demonstrating significant advancement in data-driven materials characterization. Within Brookhaven's CFN, Dr. Lu actively contributes to the Theory/Computation group and has organized multiple workshops at NSLS-II and CFN User Meetings, including the 2023 Workshop on X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy Curation, the 2022 Symposium on Electronic Structure of Nanomaterials honoring Dr. Mark Hybertsen, and 2021-2022 workshops on machine learning for battery development and X-ray scattering.
Max Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of SolidsGermany
Professor Phil King leads a research group within the School of Physics and Astronomy at the University of St Andrews, where he is part of the Centre for Designer Quantum Materials. His research focuses on the electronic structure and many-body interactions of quantum materials using electron spectroscopy, particularly angle-resolved photoemission (ARPES), and creating new designer quantum materials through atomic layer-by-layer growth. King's research interests center on quantum materials, with particular emphasis on topological matter, transition-metal oxides, and 2D quantum materials. His group investigates strain and pressure tuning of quantum materials, photoemission spectroscopy of correlated systems, and engineering band structures in 2D conductors. They develop methods to exploit strong electronic interactions in 2D systems to create new functional materials with tunable properties. Their approach combines experimental screening of candidate materials, bottom-up atomic assembly of custom heterostructures, and advanced spectroscopic feedback. Analysis of King's recent publications reveals a strong focus on the electronic structure of quantum materials, particularly transition metal dichalcogenides, delafossite metals, and topological systems. His work frequently examines charge density waves, spin-orbit coupling effects, Van Hove singularities, and quantum phase transitions. A notable trend is the integration of materials synthesis with advanced spectroscopic characterization, enabling precise control over electronic properties through strain engineering, doping, and heterostructure formation. King actively supervises PhD students on projects related to quantum materials, including probing elastic coupling in exotic magnets, angle-resolved photoemission from tailored mesostructures, thermodynamics and spectroscopy, oxide metals, and gate tuning of 2D quantum materials. His research is supported by major funding sources that enable access to cutting-edge equipment and international facilities. The King Group operates advanced experimental facilities including a high-resolution lab-based ARPES system with multiple light sources, and two DCA R450 molecular-beam epitaxy systems optimized for transition-metal oxides and chalcogenides. They are developing the UK's first spin-resolved ARPES capability. The group regularly utilizes major international facilities including Diamond Light Source, Elettra, SOLEIL, and HiSOR synchrotrons, as well as the ARTEMIS facility for time-resolved studies.
Igor Di Marco is a Researcher at Uppsala University's Department of Physics and Astronomy, specializing in Materials Theory. He has maintained continuous research activity at Uppsala since 2009, initially as a postdoctoral fellow and subsequently as a researcher, with a temporary leave in 2017 to lead a group at the Asia-Pacific Center for Theoretical Physics in South Korea. Dr. Di Marco earned his PhD in condensed matter theory from Radboud University of Nijmegen in 2009. His academic trajectory has focused on computational approaches to understanding complex quantum materials, particularly those exhibiting strong electron correlations. His research centers on computational physics and condensed matter theory , with emphasis on developing methods to determine electronic and magnetic properties of strongly correlated materials . Dr. Di Marco is one of the principal developers of the all-electron DFT code RSPt (a Sweden-USA-France collaboration), which utilizes the full-potential linearized muffin-tin orbitals method. His expertise spans density-functional theory (DFT) , dynamical mean-field theory (DMFT) , and their integration (DFT+DMFT). Current research extends to X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) and resonant inelastic X-ray scattering (RIXS) . Analysis of his recent publications reveals a consistent focus on electronic correlations in quantum materials, particularly in kagome metals, van der Waals magnets, and complex alloys. His work bridges theoretical method development with practical materials applications, frequently examining magnetic properties and electronic structure calculations across diverse material systems. Dr. Di Marco has made significant contributions to computational methodologies for strongly correlated electron systems, including the development of the DFT+DMFT framework within RSPt featuring full self-consistency over electron density and self-energy. His research projects have addressed magnetic properties of transition metals, excitation spectra of metal oxides, theoretical frameworks for lanthanides, and prediction of novel 2D materials.
Suyang Xu is an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at Harvard University, affiliated with the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology within the Faculty of Arts and Sciences. He is actively accepting graduate students and leading the TopoXu Lab. Education : Bachelor's degree from Peking University, PhD work under Professor Zahid Hasan at Princeton University on Weyl semimetals. Postdoctoral Experience : Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), collaborating with Professors Nuh Gedik and Pablo Jarillo-Herrero on topological materials and 2D material fabrication. Research Interests : Xu specializes in exploring electronic and optical properties of quantum materials, particularly topological and broken symmetry states. His lab employs Angle-Resolved Photoemission Spectroscopy (ARPES), optical/THz spectroscopy, and electronic transport techniques to study nonlinear electronic responses in topological materials, aiming to uncover quantum crystal phenomena through interdisciplinary collaboration. Scientific Recognition : His work on Weyl semimetals was recognized as a PhysicsWorld Top-10 Breakthrough of the Year Labs & Collaborations : The TopoXu Lab at Harvard integrates physics, chemistry, and biology approaches while leveraging global beamline facilities and national labs. Xu emphasizes international collaborations to address challenges in fundamental science and emerging technologies like low-power electronics.
Wolfgang Windl is a Professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at The Ohio State University with a joint appointment in Physics. He co-founded Goniotech LLC and previously worked at Motorola as a Principal Staff Scientist. He holds a doctoral degree in physics from the University of Regensburg and completed postdoctoral research at Los Alamos National Laboratory and Arizona State University. His research specializes in computational materials science, focusing on: Atomistic simulations and density-functional theory Machine learning applications in materials design Semiconductor transport and layered materials (e.g., Dirac semimetals) Atom probe tomography and characterization techniques Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2023-2025) reveals dominant themes: advanced simulations of field evaporation, topological quantum materials (PtTe 2 , PdTe 2 ), and computational frameworks for materials characterization. His work frequently integrates spectroscopy, tomography, and Bayesian methods to study alloys, 2D materials, and additive manufacturing defects. Awards and Honors Fraunhofer-Bessel Research Award (2006) Four Lumley Research Awards Boyer Award for Teaching Excellence (2015) Faculty Diversity Excellence Award (2020) Two Mars Fontana Best Teacher Awards (2006, 2015) ASEE Best Paper & Diversity Awards (2019) He advises 11+ graduate students (7 alumni, 5 current) and leads the Windl Group research team focused on computational materials modeling. His group develops simulation tools for atomic-scale characterization and collaborates with national laboratories.
