MIT Researchers Honored as APS Fellows for Contributions in Quantum and Polymer Physics

In 2023, three distinguished researchers from MIT have been honored with fellowship status by the American Physical Society (APS). Established in 1921, the APS Fellowship Program aims to acknowledge outstanding contributions in the field of physics, recognizing peers who have excelled through original research, innovative applications, and exceptional teaching. Each year, less than 0.5% of APS members, excluding students, are selected for this prestigious recognition.

Recognized MIT Researchers

Three members from MIT were elected as APS Fellows this year:

Paola Cappellaro: Quantum Control and Sensing Pioneer

Paola Cappellaro is a Ford Professor of Engineering in the Department of Nuclear Science and Engineering and a professor of physics. Her expertise lies in magnetic resonance, coherent control, and quantum information science. Cappellaro’s research centers on spin-based quantum information processing and precision measurement techniques.

Notably, she has collaborated in the development of NV-diamond magnetometers, which represent a significant advancement in the field. Her innovative control techniques for nuclear and electronic spin qubits not only deepen our understanding of quantum many-body systems but also enable the creation of practical quantum nano-devices like sensors and simulators.

The APS Division of Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics recognized her for her groundbreaking work in quantum control and sensing using spin systems.

Maria Gatu Johnson: Fusion Science Innovator

Maria Gatu Johnson, a principal research scientist at the Plasma Science and Fusion Center, focuses on thermonuclear fusion achieved through inertial confinement—a process involving lasers that compress a fuel capsule to extreme densities and temperatures.

She investigates the conditions that affect energy output in fusion reactions and has developed specialized diagnostic tools for precise analysis in fusion experiments.

The APS Division of Plasma Physics honored Gatu Johnson for her pioneering research at the intersection of plasma and nuclear science and her innovative studies on macroscopic plasma flows during inertial confinement fusion implosions.

Bradley Olsen: Polymer Physics and Sustainable Chemistry Leader

Bradley Olsen, the Alexander and I. Michael Kasser Professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering, leads the MIT-Brazil and MIT-Amazonia programs within MIT’s Center for International Studies.

His research interests lie in polymer physics, encompassing biomolecule physics, self-assembly processes, network physics, and polymer informatics. Olsen’s focus on biosynthesis as a sustainable green chemistry method for creating custom polymeric materials highlights his commitment to advancing polymer science.

He has developed new theories addressing polymer gel mechanics by considering network topology and has conducted experimental work to enhance our understanding of polymer dynamics using proteins and hybrid macromolecules.

In recognition of his contributions, he received the APS Dillon Medal for Polymer Physics in 2016.

“Each year, less than 0.5% of APS members are selected for this prestigious fellowship — highlighting the exceptional impact of these researchers’ work.”

Additional MIT Alumni Honored

Additionally, ten more alumni have been elected to APS this year:

• Reba M. Bandyopadhyay ’93
• David L. Hu ’01, PhD ’06
• Kerwyn Casey Huang PhD ’04
• H. Pirouz Kavehpour PhD ’03
• Boris Kozinsky ’00, PhD ’07
• Manyalibo J. Matthews PhD ’98
• Felix I. Parra SM ’07, PhD ’09
• Dmitry A. Pushin PhD ’07
• Caterina Riconda PhD ’97
• Sarah Veatch ’98