Abstract: Superconductivity is often referred to as the greatest unsolved problem of condensed matter physics. After a brief introduction, we will describe how using extremes of low temperatures, high pressures, and wicked high magnetic fields, we can reveal details of the microscopic quantum mechanical mechanism of superconductivity. In particular, we will describe an exotic inhomogeneous superconducting state called the FFLO state, first predicted over 50 years ago, that should only occur at high magnetic fields. We believe we have discovered the FFLO state in crystalline organic superconductors. To make this claim, we analyze rf penetration, specific heat, and NMR data. This data spans temperatures down to 55 mK and DC and pulsed magnetic fields up to 35 tesla and 65 tesla respectively. Along the way we will describe our own 50 tesla pulsed magnetic field measurement system at Clark (which only rarely explodes!). In addition to phase diagrams showing a first order phase transition cutting across the superconducting state, we now can show that the FFLO superconducting state has a higher entropy than the traditional vortex state, consistent with theoretical predictions for inhomogeneous superconductivity.

Abstract: With the recent gravitational wave detections by LIGO, the era of gravitational wave astronomy has started. Furthermore, with future planned space-based detectors, another exciting epoch will dawn upon us: the era of gravitational wave cosmology. These efforts do not only require tremendous experimental effort and skill, but also a strong theoretical understanding of all the relevant physics involved. I get to contribute to our understanding of how the accelerated expansion of our Universe affects gravitational waves.

Abstract: Experimental tests of fundamental symmetries using nuclei and other particles subject to the strong nuclear force have led to the discovery of parity (P) violation and the discovery of charge-parity (CP) violation. It is believed that additional sources of CP-violation may be needed to explain the apparent scarcity of antimatter in the universe. A particularly sensitive and unambiguous signature of both time-reversal- and CP-violation would be the existence of an electric dipole moment (EDM). The next generation of EDM searches in a variety of complimentary systems will have unprecedented sensitivity to physics beyond the Standard Model. I will describe two new searches using different nuclei and laser techniques. The first uses laser-polarized xenon and helium gases in the world’s most magnetically quiet large-scale environment located in Munich, Germany. The second uses laser-trapped & -cooled radium atoms in an experiment located at Argonne National Lab. Radium is a particularly attractive choice because its pear-shaped nucleus amplifies the observable effect of CP-violation by several orders of magnitude.

Abstract: Radiation plays a key role in the treatment of cancer and other medical conditions. Every radiation treatment requires the work of a physicist to maintain the machines used for treatment, develop patient-specific plans, and ensure the safety of the general population. This talk will discuss the types of radiation treatments commonly available, the roles and responsibilities of a medical physicist, and the application of basic physics principles in a clinical environment.

Abstract: Faster-than-light travel and beaming, neutrinos and black holes, holograms and cloaking: how much science is there in science fiction? We will use "Star Trek" as our science fiction laboratory, and will figure out what physics tells us about what they get right, what they get wrong, and what we just don't yet know. And don't worry: No previous knowledge of "Star Trek" is needed!

Abstract: In physics class we learn that magnetic forces do no work. As children at play we learned that magnets can most definitely move other magnetized objects with magnetic forces. I will address this paradox, starting with simple classical models, and ending with a discussion of quantum generalizations. The treatment will include a re-interpretation of the so-called magnetic potential energy $-\vec{\mu}\cdot \vec{B}$.

Abstract: There are many elements of our experience that contribute to our overall image of time. Commonly, we think of time as passing with a unique present carrying us along from the past into the future. However, this way of characterizing time is at odds with the scientific image of time, specifically as it appears in Einstein’s Special Theory of Relativity. Under this image, the notion of an objective past, present, or future and the passage of time must be rejected or reconsidered. Given the tension between our experiential and scientific accounts of time, some have declared time to be an illusion. But what does this mean? In this talk, we’ll look at the relationship between philosophy and physics, what it means to call time an illusion, and how we may save our experience in the face of Einstein’s Special Theory of Relativity.