Dr. Charlie Kane’s research focuses on the theory of quantum electronic phenomena in solids, exploring how advancements in nanotechnology enable precise control of matter at the atomic scale. Using techniques like molecular beam epitaxy and self-assembly, his work investigates low-dimensional structures such as quantum wires, quantum dots, carbon nanotubes, and graphene—materials with unique electronic properties and technological potential.

At the core of his research are fundamental questions in quantum many-body physics, including quantum interference, electron interactions, and topological order. By developing effective theoretical models, he bridges complex quantum theories with experimental discoveries, contributing to fields like the fractional quantum Hall effect, topological insulators, and quantum computing.

Dr. Steven G. Louie is a distinguished physicist known for his contributions to theoretical condensed matter physics and nanoscience. A professor at UC Berkeley and a senior faculty scientist at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, his research explores the electronic and structural properties of materials at the atomic scale. His work spans quasiparticle and optical excitations, electron correlation effects, and the behavior of materials like graphene, carbon and BN nanotubes, and other nanostructures.

Using first-principles theories and computational methods, Dr. Louie has advanced the understanding of superconductivity, nanoelectronics, and electron transport through single molecules. His groundbreaking research has earned him prestigious awards, including the Aneesur Rahman Prize, the Davisson-Germer Prize, and the Richard P. Feynman Prize in Nanotechnology. He is also an elected member of the National Academy of Sciences and the American Academy of Arts and and sciences.

Professor Karin Rabe is a leading researcher in the theoretical study of complex solid-state materials. Her work examines how chemical and structural complexity gives rise to remarkable properties, including ferroelectricity, large piezoelectric and dielectric responses, multiferroicity, quasicrystallinity, and high-temperature superconductivity.

Professor Rabe’s research utilizes first-principles density-functional methods to investigate ferroelectrics, martensites, and related materials, exploring both real and hypothetical structures in bulk and thin-film forms. This talk will explore the theoretical approaches that drive the discovery and understanding of novel materials with transformative potential.

Dr. David Vanderbilt’s research focuses on applying first-principles computational methods to predict and analyze the electronic and structural properties of materials, particularly dielectric, ferroelectric, piezoelectric, and magnetoelectric oxides. His work extends to both bulk materials and nanostructured systems such as superlattices, where surface and interface effects play a crucial role.

In addition to applications, Dr. Vanderbilt is deeply engaged in developing new theoretical approaches and computational algorithms to enhance the capabilities of first-principles methods. His contributions include advancements in pseudopotential theory, the theory of electric polarization, the study of insulators in finite electric fields, the theory of Wannier functions, and the role of Berry phases and Berry curvatures in dielectric and magnetoelectric phenomena.