Theoretical Condensed Matter Physics at BU

Condensed matter theorists seek to understand how complex and often unexpected phenomena emerge from the collective behavior of many interacting particles. Their research spans statistical physics (both classical and quantum), correlated quantum materials, biological and ecological networks, quantum simulation, and quantum computing, providing fundamental insights that guide the discovery of new states of matter, new algorithms, and future technologies.

Theorists at BU focus on quantum many-body systems and have two broad interests. The first is quantum systems far from equilibrium, where they explore non-thermal steady states, the role of optimal control and feedback, the behavior of quantum algorithms, and the emergence of dissipation. The second is correlated quantum matter, where the group’s interests span quantum criticality, topological phases, exotic and high-pressure superconductors, and magnetism. The group pairs analytical theory with large-scale computation, including quantum Monte Carlo, semiclassical phase-space methods, tensor networks, and neural networks. It works closely with experiments in magnetic systems, high-pressure superconductors, superconducting qubits, and in other quantum simulators. Faculty also connect to biological and statistical physics, machine learning, and first-principles materials theory. The group is a core part of BU’s Quantum Science and Engineering initiative.

Faculty

Affiliated Faculty

  • David Coker | Reactant Molecules in Different Environments
  • Sahar Sharifzadeh | Understanding and Predicting Functional Material Properties

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