Ben Olsen Launches Research with NSF Early-Career Award

Dr. Ben Olsen, Assistant Professor of Physics, was awarded a grant from the National Science Foundation in the amount of $249,684 for his project titled, “LEAPS-MPS: Ultracold Atoms for Quantum Science.” This project is supported by NSF’s program, Launching Early-Career Academic Pathways in Mathematical and Physical Sciences, which supports the research of pre-tenure faculty in mathematical and physical sciences at institutions that do not receive significant NSF funding.

Prof. Olsen’s research focuses on laser cooling and trapping techniques to produce ultracold gases of lithium atoms. Ultracold gases can be used to study exotic phases of matter and spin systems far from equilibrium. The NSF grant will allow Prof. Olsen to acquire five major pieces of equipment necessary for his lab to use the dilute gas of atoms as a quantum simulator for various models of quantum magnetism. Funds will also support four undergraduate research students over the course of two years who will have the opportunity to participate in full-time paid summer research experiences through the Rogers Science Research Program. Notably, this grant will help Prof. Olsen provide the first Quantum Information Science and Engineering (QISE) student research at Lewis & Clark.

This award is a remarkable first step for Prof. Olsen who just joined Lewis & Clark in the Fall of 2023.

July 2024