Condensed Matter Physics (CMP) is one of the biggest research fields in modern physics. CMP is concerned with understanding how the most fundamental properties of matter at the atomic and even sub-atomic scale lead to macroscopically observable phenomena. The field has firm theoretical foundations derived from traditional subjects such as quantum mechanics and statistical mechanics. One could argue that the semiconductor revolution of the past 50 years is a direct result of advances made in CMP. Understanding of superconductivity is another key achievement in the field.

Modern Condensed Matter Physics is an interdisciplinary endeavor. The field now encompasses both hard and soft matter systems. A particularly exciting, and relatively new development, has been the use of quantum many body techniques and other condensed matter approaches to address key questions in biology. Interesting examples include charge transport in single DNA molecules, and coherence in photosynthetic arrays.

The CMP program at UQ is BIG QUESTION focused. We operate at the boundary between physics, chemistry and biology. We address key questions in specific systems such as organic superconductors and biological macromolecules, and also work on more general problems such as those associated with conducting organics, quantum phase transitions in random systems and single molecule electron transport. Our approach is based upon combining theory with experiment across a range of disciplines such as quantum many body theory, quantum chemistry, synthetic organic chemistry, molecular biophysics, spectroscopy and experimental solid state physics. Even though our program was only started in 2000, we believe that we are the most expansive and innovative CMP group in Australia. Our vision is to project this local success onto the world stage, and to be regarded as leading international players in modern condensed matter physics.