Undergrad USRA Projects 2026
To find out how to apply for USRAs, visit the department's Undergraduate Summer Research Awards page.
2026 Summer project descriptions will be updated as projects are submitted. Please see previous years' projects for more information about PHAS Faculty projects.
*Students: This will be a continuously growing list. Faculty members who are not listed here might be interested in supervising USRA students; please contact them directly (listed here or not) if they are engaged in research that interests you.
1.Quantum Coherent Control
Contact: V. Milner | Email: vmilner@phas.ubc.ca | Web: http://coherentcontrol.sites.olt.ubc.ca/
Our research group on Coherent Control of Quantum Matter uses high-power ultrafast lasers to study the behavior of various quantum systems. We are currently applying our advanced laser technology to superfluid helium, in order to investigate the fascinating phenomenon of superfluidity, which is still poorly understood on the atomic level. To do that, we place molecules inside helium nanodroplets and initiate their rotation with a unique laser tool, known as an “optical centrifuge”. Using the exquisite degree of rotational control, offered by the optical centrifuge (and unavailable anywhere else in the world!), we follow the rotation of the molecular rotors embedded in the superfluid environment, using them as “nano-probes” of superfluidity.
In the summer of 2026, the USRA student will join a team of two graduate students working on the implementation of a new type of the optical centrifuge (a.k.a. an “ultra-slow centrifuge”, recently designed by our group) in the experiments on molecules in helium nanodroplets. For specific tasks and projects, please contact Dr. Milner at vmilner@phas.ubc.ca.