1. research

Condensed Matter Theory

Condensed matter physics is notable for its diversity and breadth. Even the more traditional sub-area of solid state physics covers a bewildering array of physical phenomena, spanning the fields of magnetism, superconductivity, metals, semiconductors, insulators and more. But condensed matter physics also encompasses the science of “complex systems”, such as robustness of interconnected biological, ecological, and technological networks, earthquake source dynamics, crack propagation, polymers, liquid crystals, colloids, and most recently biological materials. Condensed matter theory at UCSB spans a broad swath of these diverse topics. With the presence of the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics (KITP), condensed matter theory at UCSB has enjoyed a stellar world-wide reputation.

 Affiliated Faculty

Leon Balents

Professor
KITP Permanent Member
I am interested in developing theory to uncover and explain exotic quantum phenomena in the real world.
Condensed Matter Theory

Mark Bowick

Visiting Distinguished Professor of Physics and Deputy Director, KITP
I am interested in all aspects of symmetry, symmetry-breaking, geometry and topology across fields ranging from quantum field theory to soft and living matter, with a particular focus on topological defects. My recent work is on the statistical mechanics of thermalized 2D-metamaterials, such as graphene, the more general behavior of elastic and fluid membranes and the physics of active nematics.
Condensed Matter Theory
Physics of Soft and Living Matter

Jean Carlson

Professor
Condensed Matter Theory
Physics of Soft and Living Matter

Matthew Fisher

Professor
My present research interests lie at the border between many-body theory and quantum information theory, especially the non-equilibrium quantum dynamics of open and monitored quantum systems.
Condensed Matter Theory

Andreas Ludwig

Professor
Condensed Matter Theory

M Cristina Marchetti

Professor
Director, Biomolecular Science and Engineering Program
My research group is interested in the emergent behavior of active and living matter.
Condensed Matter Theory
Physics of Soft and Living Matter

Chetan Nayak

Professor
Director of Microsoft Station Q
Condensed Matter Theory

Sagar Vijay

Assistant Professor

Sagar Vijay graduated from Princeton University with a bachelor's degree in physics in 2013, and received his Ph.D.

Condensed Matter Theory

Cenke Xu

Professor
We study the intriguing physics that can emerge in quantum condensed matter systems, including topological effect, gauge field, ‘t Hooft anomaly, higher-form symmetries, duality, etc.
Condensed Matter Theory