Foundational and Quantum Materials Science
Vision
To unravel the mysteries of materials at all scales, from quantum phenomena to microstructure, empowering the design of revolutionary materials and processes for an abundant and affordable energy future
Mission
To conduct fundamental research in microstructure modeling, quantum materials and information sciences, and materials design and discovery to achieve a deeper understanding of materials and processes to accelerate their development for real-world applications
This section encompasses the following research groups:
Correlated Electron Materials Group — Performs research to understand inorganic crystalline materials development and condensed matter physics, by discovering and synthesizing single crystals.
Materials Theory Group — Advances the understanding of materials properties, especially strongly correlated materials, to design new materials with complex and emergent functionalities by application and development of theoretical and computational approaches.
Multiscale Modeling and Materials by Design Group — Develops and implements multiscale approaches to materials science, enabling the creation of advanced materials for electronic, magnetic, quantum, and structural applications.
Quantum Heterostructures Group — Engineer and probe new functional oxides, topological quantum materials, epitaxial thin films, and heterostructures by pulsed-laser deposition and molecular beam epitaxy.
R&D Scope
The Foundational and Quantum Materials Science Section unifies advanced computational and data analytic techniques with experimental synthesis and characterization to accelerate the discovery, design, and understanding of novel materials—from the atomic scale to complex microstructures. Our research integrates basic and applied scientific themes to understand and control emergent phenomena, design advanced structural materials, and simulate materials under out-of-equilibrium and extreme conditions. Emphasizing both theoretical insights and experimental validation, our integrated research portfolio:
- Applies advanced computational and data analytic techniques to guide the synthesis and design of materials with tailored properties.
- Develops and employs quantum mechanical methods as part of a comprehensive, multiscale modeling strategy to simulate out-of-equilibrium and extreme conditions.
- Investigates material heterogeneities across multiple length scales—with a focus on interfacial phenomena and disorder—to deepen our understanding of condensed matter physics.
- Explores the interplay between material microstructure and emergent phenomena to drive innovative structural materials design.
Ultimately, this section bridges the gap between foundational materials science and multiscale modeling, fostering an interdisciplinary approach that drives breakthroughs in modern materials discovery and innovation—from basic research to tangible technological applications.
