Graduate Students

Charles Buehrer Walker

Hi, I’m Charles Walker. I studied both mathematics and physics as an undergraduate, and have always been fascinated by how abstract concepts in mathematics can become so important in explaining our universe. I work with Professor Romhanyi on studying how concepts in topology (a field of mathematics which studies the geometric properties of sets) can explain unique behaviors in physical systems. When I’m not doing research, I’m often playing tabletop RPGs or trying to befriend the local crow population around my apartment. I split my work time between my apartment and the lab: I would work outside, but I’m too easily distracted by birds.

Hana Rebecca Schiff

Hello! I’m Hana Schiff. In my first undergraduate degree, I majored in physical biochemistry at Harvey Mudd college. Unexpectedly, I fell in love with physics. This led me to complete a second undergraduate degree in theoretical physics, after which I obtained a master’s degree focused on theoretical condensed matter, both at the University of Belgrade, in Serbia. In my research, I use symmetry-based techniques to identify non-trivial topology in band structures of magnetic materials. In my free time, I enjoy playing piano and socializing! I strongly believe there’s plenty to learn from other people, and value conversation immensely.

Matthew Stern

Hi! My name is Matthew Stern. I studied Computer Science and Physics with a minor in Mathematics at Stony Brook University. The majority of my undergrad research was done at CUNY. I studied Condensed Matter Theory and applied computational methods to multiple models. The bulk of my research was on the dynamics of monopoles in Spin Ice. After completing my degree I worked for a year in fintech and then returned back to academia. I am excited to be studying materials such as frustrated magnets, strongly correlated systems, etc by applying both numerical and analytical methods. Outside of Physics, I enjoy playing the bass guitar, cooking/baking (if I'm not being lazy), and espresso.

Alumni

Andreas Thomasen

(PhD Student 2016-2021, co-supervised by Prof. Nic Shannon)

I graduated from Aarhus University with a master's degree in optics and electronics. I've since then done various short research projects in quantum state engineering and cold atom physics. Eventually I have found myself at OIST, where I was doing my PhD in the Theory of Quantum Matter unit. I enjoy learning about strange states of matter that exist at very low temperatures and the methods that are used to describe them. I find the intuitions that one can obtain here very satisfying and elegant. I also like rowing, cycling and playing esoteric board games with my friends.

Andreas is now working for Qunasys.