Prof. Jay A. Gupta is a Professor and Vice Chair for Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs in the Department of Physics at The Ohio State University. His research focuses on atomic-scale studies of novel materials using scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) to address challenges in energy conversion and advanced computing. Key areas include magnetic skyrmions in chiral systems, semiconductor defects, 2D materials, and spintronics. He leads a laboratory equipped with four advanced STM systems and collaborates on NSF NeXUS, an ultrafast science facility. Education: B.S. Chemistry/Physics (UIUC), Ph.D. Physics (UCSB) Lab Locations: Physics Research Building (labs 0101/0105/0178) Key Projects: Spin-polarized STM of MnGe, defect-mediated surface chemistry in semiconductors, ultrafast laser-material interactions His group has trained over 30 graduate/undergraduate students and postdocs, many now in academia and industry. Research is supported by NSF, Department of Energy, and industrial partnerships.
Stephen Bradforth is a Professor of Chemistry at the University of Southern California and Senior Advisor to the Dean for Research Strategy and Development in the Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences . He earned his PhD in Physical Chemistry from the University of California, Berkeley (1992) and conducted postdoctoral research at the University of Chicago . B.A., Natural Sciences, Cambridge University (1987) Ph.D., Physical Chemistry, UC Berkeley (1992) Postdoctoral Associate, University of Chicago (1993–1996) His research focuses on ultrafast laser spectroscopy to study chemical reactions in complex environments like aqueous systems and molecular materials . Key projects include: Solar Energy Conversion : Investigating photosensitizers based on earth-abundant elements (Cu, Zn, Zr) and organic photovoltaics with BODIPY cores. DNA Photodamage : Mechanisms of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer (CPD) formation under UV exposure, emphasizing base-stacking effects. Electronic Structure in Ethereal Solvents : Studying solvated electrons in liquid ammonia and their role in carbanion stabilization. His 15 most recent articles (2004–2024) highlight advancements in photoelectron spectroscopy , singlet fission for solar cells, and DNA damage pathways . Collaborations span medicine, physics, and engineering . Scientific Awards include the ACS Physical Chemistry Division Senior Experimental Award (2023) , STAR Awardee (2019) , Cottrell Scholar , and Fellow of APS and AAAS . He has received both Junior (2001) and Senior Raubenheimer Awards (2022) at USC. Advising has been a cornerstone, with 23 PhD students graduated and 4 current candidates. His 15 most recent publications (2012–2024) emphasize ultrafast dynamics , charge transfer mechanisms , and environmental photochemistry . Labs & Teams : The Bradforth Group operates advanced time-resolved photoelectron spectrometers , liquid microjet systems , and high-repetition-rate laser facilities . Current projects include metallic water solutions (Nature 2021), DNA photophysics (FASEB J 2011), and carbanion electronic structure in ammonia.
Rupert Frank is a Professor of Mathematics at the University of Munich (LMU Munich) . He has held academic positions at Caltech (2013–2021) and Princeton University (2009–2013). His research spans Mathematical Physics , Spectral Theory , and Functional Inequalities , with a focus on quantum many-body systems, stability of matter, and nonlocal operators. Research Themes : Analysis of eigenvalues for Schrödinger and Pauli operators with complex potentials Semi-classical spectral asymptotics and effective theories for quantum systems Matrix inequalities and quantum information theory Calculus of variations in models like the liquid drop problem Geometric inequalities and their applications to quantum mechanics Magnetic field effects on spectral properties Recent Publications : 2025: Sharp stability for Sobolev/log-Sobolev inequalities with dimensional dependence 2025: Endpoint Schatten class properties of commutators 2024: Degenerate stability of Caffarelli-Kohn-Nirenberg inequality 2024: Hardy inequalities for large fermionic systems 2023: Review on Scott conjecture for Coulomb systems Scientific Awards : Young Scientist Prize in Mathematical Physics (2009) Grants and Collaborations : Principal Investigator in CRC TRR 352 (2023–) PI in Munich Center for Quantum Science and Technology (2019–) Multiple NSF grants (2009–2020) DFG and DAAD grants Editorial and Conference Leadership : Editorial boards: Communications in Mathematical Physics , Journal in Mathematical Physics , Journal of Spectral Theory , SIAM Journal on Mathematical Analysis , Springer Lecture Notes Organized conferences/workshops on quantum many-body systems, spectral methods, and functional inequalities (2018–2025)
Norm Murray is a Professor at the Canadian Institute for Theoretical Astrophysics (CITA) within the University of Toronto . With a Ph.D. from UC Berkeley (1986), his research spans nonlinear dynamics , planetary formation , solar system evolution , and active galactic nuclei . His work combines theoretical physics with observational data from radio telescopes, X-ray satellites, and cosmological simulations. Recent research focuses on galaxy formation (via FIRE simulations), dark matter interactions in dwarf galaxies, and AGN disk dynamics . He employs machine learning for planetary collision modeling and investigates the interplay of magnetohydrodynamics and radiative transfer in quasar environments. Publications highlight his expertise in computational astrophysics, spanning topics from cosmic molecular gas mapping to the stability of exoplanetary systems.
Ramses Martinez is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Industrial Engineering and Biomedical Engineering at Purdue University . He holds a B.A. in Applied Physics from Universidad Autonoma de Madrid (2004) and a Ph.D. in Physics and Materials Science from the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) in 2009. Prior to joining Purdue, he conducted postdoctoral research in the lab of Prof. George M. Whitesides at Harvard University, focusing on nanofabrication, microfluidics, and soft robotics. Education B.A. in Applied Physics, Universidad Autonoma de Madrid (2004) Ph.D. in Physics and Materials Science, Spanish National Research Council (CSIC) (2009) His research bridges soft robotics , flexible electronics , and nanofabrication , with a focus on creating self-powered e-textiles , omniphobic paper-based devices , and programmable mechanical metamaterials . His work has led to over 25 publications and 9 patents, emphasizing practical applications in health monitoring and industrial automation . Notable projects include waterproof electronic decals for biofluid monitoring, smart bandages for chronic wound detection, and laser nanoforming methods for scalable metallic structures. His research has been recognized through the Fulbright Fellowship and the Marie Curie IOF Grant .
Dr. Maureen Joel Lagos is an Associate Professor in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at McMaster University. He holds the Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Imaging and Spectroscopy of Advanced Nanomaterials using Electron Microscopy and serves as Associate Scientific Director of the Canadian Centre for Electron Microscopy (CCEM). His research focuses on advanced material characterization using electron microscopy techniques, particularly electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) and in-situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM), to study phonons, plasmons, and excitons in nanomaterials for applications in infrared photonics, quantum materials, and energy systems. Dr. Lagos' academic background includes a Ph.D. from The State University of Campinas, followed by postdoctoral research at the University of Antwerp and Rutgers University. He has received notable awards such as the Microscopy Society of Canada Early Career Investigator Award (2022) and NSERC Early Career Research Award (2019). His work emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, combining nanotechnology with photonics engineering, smart materials, and micro-nano systems. His research group develops novel methodologies for nanoscale material characterization, including nanothermal analysis and real-time TEM studies. Key projects involve designing ultra-quiet environments for advanced electron microscopes and investigating nanoscale heat transfer mechanisms. Dr. Lagos teaches graduate courses MATLS 4G03 (Characterization of Nanomaterials) and MATLS 6FF3 (Synthesis and Applications of Nanomaterials), emphasizing practical applications in energy storage, environmental impact, and biomedical engineering. Recent publications highlight breakthroughs in coupled plasmon-phonon modes, nanoscale temperature measurements, and vibrational spectroscopy techniques. His lab (ABB 429) collaborates widely, contributing to national initiatives like the Canada Foundation for Innovation-funded projects. Dr. Lagos is actively recruiting undergraduate and graduate students for research in nanomaterials and microscopy-driven material science.
Christoph T. Koch is a Professor of Physics at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, where he has held the W3 Chair since 2015. Previously, he held a similar position at Ulm University (2011–2015), supported by the Carl Zeiss Foundation. His research focuses on advanced electron microscopy techniques, including quantitative transmission electron microscopy (TEM), electron holography, and strain mapping. He leads the AG Strukturforschung/Elektronenmikroskopie group, advancing materials science through innovations in imaging and spectroscopy. Education: B.Sc./M.Sc. in Physics at Heidelberg University (1996–1998), followed by an exchange at Arizona State University (1997–1998). PhD in Physics from Arizona State University (2002, advisor: Prof. John C.H. Spence). Postdoctoral research at the Max Planck Institute for Metals Research, Stuttgart (2002–2011). Research interests include: Electron diffraction and phase retrieval Nanometer-scale strain and defect analysis Electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) for plasmonics and bandgap mapping Development of FAIR data infrastructure for materials science Leadership: Managed the Department of Physics at Humboldt University (2020–2024). Collaborates widely, with key co-authors including P.A. van Aken, W. Sigle, and C. Felser. His work bridges experimental microscopy and computational modeling, addressing challenges in semiconductors, ceramics, and 2D materials. Notable contributions include pioneering methods for 3D reconstruction via electron ptychography, dynamic electron diffraction analysis, and strain mapping in advanced CMOS technologies. Current efforts emphasize real-time imaging and AI-driven data analysis in materials research.
Jani Kotakoski is a Full Professor at the University of Vienna's Faculty of Physics, leading the Physics of Nanostructured Materials research group. He additionally holds an adjunct professorship at the University of Helsinki since May 2011. Education: Ph.D. in Physics, University of Helsinki (2007). Dissertation: Irradiation-mediated tailoring of carbon nanotubes Research Focus: Kotakoski pioneers atomic-scale manipulation of 2D materials using electron and ion beams. His work centers on defect engineering in graphene, carbon nanotubes, and transition metal dichalcogenides to control electronic, mechanical, and catalytic properties. Key methodologies include scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), slow highly charged ion irradiation, and in situ characterization within integrated vacuum systems. His fingerprint reveals dominant expertise in graphene (100%), two-dimensional materials (27%), carbon nanotubes (26%), and scanning transmission electron microscopy (20%). Publication Trends: Recent works (2024-2025) demonstrate a strategic shift toward functional applications: pore-engineered MoS 2 for hydrogen evolution catalysis, corrugation-controlled mechanical properties in graphene, and metal atom chains at graphene edges. His group increasingly combines defect creation with advanced imaging techniques like ptychography to resolve atomic structures of dopants and vacancies. Research Leadership: MECS (2023-2028): Materials for Energy Conversion and Storage Quantum Centers in Diamond (2021-2025): Creating quantum emitters DCAFM (2020-2025): Doctoral College for Advanced Functional Materials training Laboratory Infrastructure: His group operates an integrated vacuum system coupling graphene growth, manipulation, and atomic-resolution STEM imaging, enabling real-time observation of beam-induced dynamics from pristine to amorphous structures.
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.
Jürgen Mlynek is a Professor of Experimental Physics at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, with a distinguished career spanning academia and research leadership. He served as President of the Helmholtz Association (2005–2015), Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin (2000–2005), and held a Vice-President role at the German Research Foundation (DFG) (1996–2001). His academic journey includes faculty positions at the University of Constance (1990–2000) and ETH Zürich (1986–1990), along with research roles at IBM and the University of Hannover. Research Interests: Experimental quantum optics Atomic physics Surface physics Scientific Awards: Physik-Preis (1987) Gottfried-Wilhelm-Leibniz Preis (1992) Max-Born Prize and Medal (1996) Urania Medal (2003) Order of Merit of Berlin (2008) Grand Cross of Niedersachsen (2009) Officer's Cross of Germany (2010) Honorary doctorate from Ulm University (2012) Ring of Honor of Garbsen (2014) His publications highlight innovations in quantum measurement techniques , atom interferometry , optical resonators , and single-photon states , reflecting contributions to quantum optics and precision measurement.
Lisa Fredin is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Lehigh University , with research spanning theoretical and computational chemistry , electronic structure , disorder in materials , photoredox catalysis , and nanochemistry . Her work bridges experiment and theory , focusing on density functional theory (DFT) and quantum chemistry to model catalytic materials , charge transport , and excited-state dynamics in systems ranging from transition-metal complexes to oxide nanoparticles . Education: Ph.D. in Chemistry (Northwestern University, 2012), B.S. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Applied Mathematics (UT Austin, 2007) Previous Appointments: Postdoctoral Researcher at Lund University (2012–2014), Research Associate at NIST (2015–2018) Her research explores: Disorder in Inorganic and Organic Materials: Modeling defects , doping , and dynamic molecular vibrations to understand their impact on electronic properties and device performance . Photophysics of Light-Harvesting Complexes: Studying Fe(II) , Ru(II) , and Pd(II) complexes to optimize charge separation , excited-state lifetimes , and photocatalytic efficiency . Surface and Nanoscale Reactivity: Predicting reactivity of oxide nanoparticles and metal surfaces for CO disproportionation , water oxidation , and photoredox reactions . Her recent publications highlight TD-DFT applications, Boltzmann transport in organic materials, and defect engineering in TiO2 and SrTiO3 . She has received the Sloan Research Fellowship (2024) and ACS-PHYS Postdoctoral Award (2016) . Prof. Fredin mentors 6 graduate students and 15 undergraduates , teaches Physical Chemistry and Quantum Chemistry , and leads the Fredin Group , which develops computational tools for materials discovery.
Michael Barnes is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where he also serves as the Graduate Program Director. He is affiliated with the Materials Science and Engineering Interdisciplinary Graduate Program, reflecting the interdisciplinary nature of his research. His work is conducted in the Physical Sciences Building and the Lederle Graduate Research Tower. Ph.D., Rice University (1991) B.S., California State University, Sonoma (1985) His research focuses on the chemical physics of nanoscale systems, particularly the relationship between structure and optoelectronic function in polymeric and inorganic composite nanostructures. He employs a technique known as “Chemical Microscopy,” which integrates single-molecule imaging, spectroscopy, and scanning probe methods like atomic force microscopy (AFM). His work spans quantum dot-organic hybrids, polythiophene nanostructures, and chiral molecules, with implications for energy harvesting and advanced optical technologies. The available publications, both from 2012, center on exciton dynamics and structural properties in conjugated polymer systems such as polythiophenes and P3HT nanofibers. These studies utilize advanced optical techniques to probe inter- and intrachain interactions, solvation effects, and regioregularity at the nanoscale, revealing insights into charge transport and photophysical behavior relevant to organic photovoltaics. While no formal scientific awards are listed in the provided text, his research has been published in high-impact journals such as Science and the Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters . He advises a research group comprising graduate students and researchers, and collaborates with prominent faculty including Prof. Todd Emrick and Prof. Latha Venkataraman. Senior Staff Scientist, Oak Ridge National Laboratory (2003–2004) Staff Scientist, Oak Ridge National Laboratory (1994–2003) Dr. Barnes leads the Barnes Research Group, which investigates single-molecule photophysics, chiroptical responses, and nanostructure functionality. The lab focuses on systems such as CdSe-organic composites, polythiophene nanoparticles, and chiral fluorophores, aiming to bridge molecular structure with macroscopic optoelectronic behavior.
Alec H. Follmer is an Assistant Professor at the University of California, Davis, appointed in 2024. His research focuses on metalloenzymology, combining structural biology, spectroscopy, biophysics, and chemical biology to study non-equilibrium dynamics in metal-containing enzymes. He leads the Follmer Lab, which develops innovative approaches for high-resolution characterization of catalytic intermediates to pioneer selective catalysis and structure-based drug discovery. His educational background includes: Ph.D. from the University of California Irvine (2014-2019) B.Sc. from the University of the Pacific (2011-2014) Dr. Follmer's research spans bioinorganic chemistry and enzyme catalysis, investigating how protein motions couple with metallocofactor electronic structures to drive enzymatic mechanisms. His lab employs XFEL crystallography, advanced spectroscopies, and biophysical methods to capture transient catalytic states, with implications for sustainable chemistry and pharmacological applications. His recent publications (2018-2024) reveal consistent focus on cytochrome P450 systems, metallocofactor dynamics, and catalytic mechanisms. Key trends include substrate binding effects, redox partner interactions, and conformational changes during catalysis, utilizing X-ray scattering, crystallography, and electron spin resonance to probe enzyme dynamics at atomic resolution. His scientific honors include: Visiting Physicist at Stanford / SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory (2025) Appointed to LCLS User Executive Committee, SLAC (2024) National Science Foundation 2026 Idea Machine Finalist – Top 33 (2020) DOE Basic Energy Sciences Early Career Network Representative (2020–2021) No information on students or research grants is provided in the source text. The Follmer Lab operates at the Chemistry building (3110 Chemistry) at UC Davis, working at the interface of bioinorganic chemistry, (bio)photocatalysis, and pharmacology to develop strategies for medical and sustainable chemistry advancements.
Klaus Richter is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Chemistry, University of Vienna, affiliated with the Department of Functional Materials and Catalysis. His research spans materials science, catalysis, and thermodynamics. Academic Rank: Associate Professor (ao. Univ.-Prof.) Research Focus: Phase diagrams, intermetallic compounds, vapour-solid synthesis, and catalytic applications for hydrogen production Projects: Notable work on Al-Cu-X (X=Si, Zn) phase diagrams and intermetallic nanoparticle synthesis Richter’s publications emphasize sustainable energy solutions through intermetallic catalysts, with recent studies on Ni-Te and Pt-Zn nanoparticles for green hydrogen production. His work integrates computational modeling (CALPHAD) with experimental phase analysis. Key scientific awards include the APDIC Best Paper Award (2014) and JPED Editors Choice Award (2018). He actively contributes to conferences and collaborative research in intermetallic systems.
Danae Polsin is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Hajim School of Engineering & Applied Sciences, University of Rochester. Her research focuses on high-energy-density physics, shock wave dynamics, and x-ray diffraction techniques. She investigates material behavior under extreme conditions such as laser-driven compression, inertial confinement fusion, and multimegabar pressures. Dr. Polsin’s work addresses fundamental questions in condensed matter physics, including phase transitions, metallurgical transformations, and electronic structure evolution under extreme pressures and temperatures. Her research leverages cutting-edge facilities like the National Ignition Facility (NIF) and OMEGA Laser, where she develops diagnostic tools such as time-resolved x-ray diffraction systems to study warm dense matter and shock-compressed materials. Her recent studies include isostructural phase transitions in materials under laser shock, melt dynamics in nickel and iron compounds, and the structural complexity of sodium at high pressures. She collaborates on inertial confinement fusion projects, validating implosion models and advancing fusion energy systems through experimental design and multimessenger measurements. Danae Polsin’s research emphasizes bridging experimental observations with theoretical models, contributing to our understanding of material behavior at terapascal pressures and informing applications in energy systems and advanced materials science.
