Condensed Matter Physics Overview
While “condensed matter physics” might sound daunting, this exciting field of research is central to a scientific understanding of how matter works. Simply put, condensed matter is the branch of physics concerned with the nature and properties of matter and energy.
Physicists researching condensed matter observe the interactions of various types of matter, including solids, liquids, gases and plasmas. Condensed matter physics deals specifically with systems of many constituents with strong interactions between them. Researchers have achieved success in manipulating these interactions to advance human knowledge of the physical systems around us, as well as to create an array of revolutionary materials and devices.
Research in the field has led to the creation of new materials with novel properties that have opened doors in areas as diverse as computing and electronics, energy generation and storage, and quantum information science and technology.
Research Areas
Experimental Condensed Matter
- Ramakrishna Podila: Nano-biomaterials and devices.
- Apparao Rao: Nanomaterials and nanodevices; batteries.
- Chad Sosolik: Surface and interface nanoscience.
Condensed Matter Theory
- Murray Daw: Theory of materials.
- Catalina Marinescu: Condensed matter theory; spintronics.
- Sumanta Tewari: Condensed matter theory; topological quantum computing.
Other Resources
Research Opportunities
For details on undergraduate research opportunities, visit the Undergraduate Research Opportunities page.