I am interested in combining quantum mechanics and gravity, especially by thinking about quantum mechanical aspects of black holes and the AdS/CFT correspondence (our best theory of quantum gravity so far). To this end, I often use the tools of quantum information theory and quantum computation, and I am interested in expanding these connections. How can quantum computers be used to help the study of quantum gravity? In what ways does quantum gravitational physics affect the theory of computation?
Teaching
courses taught
PHYS 2210 - Classical Mechanics and Mathematical Methods 1
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2024
Theoretical Newtonian mechanics, including position and velocity dependent forces, oscillation, stability, non-inertial frames and gravitation from extended bodies. Ordinary differential equations, vector algebra, curvilinear coordinates, complex numbers, and Fourier series will be introduced in the context of the mechanics.
PHYS 4410 - Quantum Mechanics 2
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2025
Extends quantum mechanics to include perturbation theory and its applications to atomic fine structure, multi-particle systems, interactions with external forces, the periodic table and dynamical processes including electromagnetic transition rates.
PHYS 5770 - Gravitational Theory (Theory of General Relativity)
Primary Instructor
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Spring 2026
Presents Einstein's relativistic theory of gravitation from geometric viewpoint; gives applications to astrophysical problems (gravitational waves, stellar collapse, etc.). Recommended prerequisites: PHYS 3220 and PHYS 3320. Instructor consent required for undergraduates.
PHYS 7570 - Quantum Information and Computing
Primary Instructor
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Fall 2025
Covers the foundations of quantum information and computing. Includes bits and qubits, entanglement, quantum algorithms, and quantum error correction. More advanced topics selected from: Quantum Shannon theory, quantum communication and networks, quantum-enhanced measurements, and quantum simulation. Department enforced prerequisite: PHYS 5250.
