research

Many of the key innovations that define modern technology originated from condensed matter physics, including the development of the transistor and the microelectronic processor. In practice, condensed matter physics is a highly diverse field encompassing a wide range of theories and experiments. Here at Michigan State we have innovative research programs in light-matter interactions, nanostructured materials, quantum and classical fluctuations, superconductivity, and ultrafast spectroscopies (to name only a few).

In addition to a number of world-class studies and facilities supervised by individual faculty, the diversity of condensed matter physics often leads to natural collaborations with other fields and departments. Active collaborations between our faculty and other departments include Chemistry, Mathematics, Microbiology, Mechanical Engineering, and Electrical and Computer Engineering. Our students have access to a wide range of shared facilities; these include the Keck Microfabrication facility, the Center for Advanced Microscopy, the Composite Materials and Structures Center, and the High performance computing center. The Center of Research Excellence in Complex Materials is a newly-formed interdisciplinary center which fosters new collaborations and shared facilities.