Dr. Kelly Patton
Assistant Professor of Physics & Astronomy
Office: Savannah Campus, Science Bldg, Rm 2020
Phone: (912) 344-2920
Email: kpatton@georigasouthern.edu
Website: www.kellypatton.org
Education
B.S. Physics, University of Georgia
Ph.D. Physics, University of Georgia
Postdoctoral Researcher, Hamburg University, Germany
Postdoctoral Researcher, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge
Postdoctoral Researcher, Seoul National University, S. Korea
Courses
Physics Courses:
- PHYS 1210 – Survey of Physics
- PHYS 2211K – Principles of Physics
- PHYS 2212K – Principles of Physics
- PHYS 3536 – Modern Physics I
- PHYS 3537 – Modern Physics II
- PHYS 5890 – Physics Research Experience
Research
My main area of research interest is in the area of physics referred to as condensed matter. But that doesn’t convey much information, even if that term means something to you. As the field of condensed matter is the largest field of physics by both number of people and the range of sub-fields within it. Loosely defined, my specific interest is the theoretical understanding of unique and interesting phases of matter.
We are usually taught that there are three or four different phases of matter: liquid, gas, solid, and perhaps plasma. In reality, Nature is much more complex. There are hundreds of different phases of matter. I’m most interested in the superconducting/superfluid state of matter; in fact, there are many different superconducting/fluid states. These states are of interest because they can flow, or move, with zero resistance or viscosity. The understanding of this effect and its consequences are a significant component of my current research interest.
In addition to the above, I’m also interested in some areas of quantum computing, explicitly using condensed matter systems to form units of quantum information (qubits).
If you like to know more about possible research projects or discuss a topic that piques your interest, please feel free to contact me at the email address given above.
Last updated: 2/6/2024