The research on condensed matter theory at the University of Alabama reflects the broad spectrum of topics and phenomena that is characteristic of modern condensed matter physics. Interests of our faculty range from fundamental questions related to collective behavior and transport in solid state systems to the study of novel materials and device designs that may shape future technologies. There is also a substantial theoretical component to the research conducted in condensed matter physics.
Faculty Research and Interests
Current Faculty
Dr. Georg Schwiete studies transport and dynamics in quantum many-body systems. We are especially interested in the combined effects of disorder and interactions in low-dimensional systems. The two-dimensional electron liquid near the metal-insulator transition or disordered superconducting films near the transition to the superconducting state are prominent examples of systems where these effects become particularly strong and lead to qualitatively new phenomena. We are also engaged in research on systems with strong spin-orbit coupling such as topological insulators and in aspects of magnetism and spintronics. Most of our studies are based on methods of quantum field theory in condensed matter physics.
Dr. Wang-Kong Tse studies the physics of transport, light-matter interaction and many-body effects in low-dimensional quantum materials and structures. Our research is focused on unraveling the properties of novel materials through a combination of analytical and numerical techniques in quantum field theory and materials modeling. Some recent systems we are interested in include graphene and graphene-like systems, 2D transition-metal dichalcogenides, topological insulators, and materials with spin-orbit coupling that host unconventional and tunable properties.
Former Faculty
Dr. Claudia Mewes (affiliated) researched Spintronic and Spinlogic Devices, Magnetization Dynamics, Damping Mechanisms in Confined Systems, Materials Design, Material Properties in Confined Systems.
Emeritus Faculty
Dr. Sanjoy Sarker studies strongly correlated systems, high Tc superconductivity and complex order. We are engaged in theoretical research on highly correlated electron systems, such as the high-temperature cuprate superconductors and rare-earth-transition metal-oxides, and quantum liquids. Our work seeks a theoretical understanding of unusual properties of these systems, caused by a delicate interplay between the charge and the spin degrees of freedom, based on the Hubbard and the related t-J and Anderson models. We are particularly interested in the breakdown of Fermi liquid theory, and the appearance of complex magnetic and structural order and associated metal insulator transitions in many strongly correlated materials.
Contact Us
If you are a student (undergraduate or graduate) with a possible interest in theoretical condensed matter physics we would be glad to hear from you via e-mail or otherwise. Please contact one of the physicists above or email physgrad@ua.edu for information about graduate study. Information about our graduate program is also available on our website.