Prof. Dr. Mohammad Hafezi

Profile

Academic positionFull Professor
Research fieldsAtomic Physics, Molecular Physics, Laser Physics,Physical Chemistry of Solids and Surfaces, Material Characterisation
KeywordsQuantum optics, quantum simulation, condensed matter physics, topological effects

Current contact address

CountryUnited States of America
CityMaryland
InstitutionUniversity of Maryland at College Park

Host during sponsorship

Prof. Dr. Angel RubioMax-Planck-Institut für Struktur und Dynamik der Materie, Hamburg

Programme(s)

2025Humboldt Research Award Programme

Nominator's project description

Professor Hafezi is internationally recognized for his groundbreaking contributions to quantum many-body physics and topological physics, bridging theory and experiment in photonic systems. He pioneered the concept of synthetic gauge fields for neutral photons. This breakthrough led to the first experimental observation of topological edge states in silicon photonics and the emergence of topological photonic devices. During his stay in Germany, Professor Hafezi will investigate light-matter interactions in new regimes to realize driven topological phases, magnetism and enhanced superconductivity. This will potentially lead to engineering exotic states like quantum spin liquids.