Over the past 50 years, developments in condensed matter physics have paved the way for technologies we use every day. For example, the creation of integrated computer circuits spawned text messaging, debit payments, and video streaming, not to mention biomedical applications like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Dr. Andrea Damascelli, Canada Research Chair in Electronic Structure of Quantum Materials, utilizes spectroscopic techniques including time-, spin-, and angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES), as well as resonant elastic x-ray scattering (REXS), to study the low-energy electronic structure of solids. He specializes in quantum materials – systems that show new electronic properties that defy our ability to understand or predict them. These properties include high-temperature superconductivity, unconventional magnetism, and exotic phases of matter.

Dr. Damascelli’s research focuses on the electronic structure of unconventional oxide superconductors. His work has gained global recognition and helped make Canada a leader in photoelectron spectroscopy – a highly sophisticated technique that images the energy and velocity of electrons as they propagate inside a material. Advances in this field will help answer fundamental questions in condensed matter physics and lead to new concepts and understanding.

By combining the atomic manipulation of materials and structures with novel equilibrium and ultrafast spectroscopy approaches, Dr. Damascelli aims to probe and realize new quantum materials and coherent quantum states that are technologically critical for the next generation of quantum devices. Dr. Damascelli’s research will strengthen Canada’s leadership in developing electronic materials with quantum electronic properties that have never been seen before. These breakthroughs will lead to new applications in information technology, energy, and health.