Abstract: Solid-state physics (SSP) is broad branch of condensed matter physics that studies the physical properties of rigid matter, or solids. It employs principles from quantum mechanics, crystallography, and electromagnetism to understand how the arrangement of atoms in a solid gives rise to its macroscopic properties, such as electrical conductivity, heat capacity, and magnetic behavior. SSP and quantum materials are deeply interconnected fields, with the former providing the foundational knowledge and tools to explore the frontiers of the latter. In essence, the study of quantum materials is a natural evolution of solid-state physics, delving into more complex and exotic quantum phenomena that hold the promise for future technologies. The SSP program at ARO supports basic, foundational research in quantum materials and relevant quantum phenomena. The goal of his program is to drive research that looks beyond the current understanding of natural and designed condensed matter, to lay a foundation for revolutionary electronic device concepts for future generations of warfighters. Understanding, predicting, and experimentally demonstrating novel phases of matter in strongly correlated solid state materials will lay a foundation for new technology paradigms for applications ranging from information processing to sensing to novel functional materials. Interest primarily involves strong correlations of electrons, but those of other particles or excitations are not excluded. His program is currently emphasizing endeavors to determine if material properties can be significantly altered by dressing bosonic states within materials with engineered fluctuations of the vacuum.
In this session, Dr. Neupane will provide a quick summary of his academic/research journey before providing a full overview of the program, highlighting numerous funded projects and recent accomplishments, and explaining how these research discoveries may one day influence Army applications. He will also present information on funding mechanisms and the proposal application process.