At the Quantum Hydrodynamics Lab (QHL), we study the coldest matter in the universe – making our lab the coldest at USD! In the lab, we use techniques with light and magnetic fields to cool and manipulate ultracold bosons. Doing this, we create the fifth state of matter, known as dilute-gas Bose-Einstein condensates (BECs). The QHL conducts experiments at USD and in the microgravity environment provided by the International Space Station. These space-based studies are collaborative efforts with WSU Pullman, CU Boulder and the Jet Propulsion Laboratory. To learn more about current and recent undergraduate projects, visit the Research page.

The lab is lead by Prof. Maren Mossman (pronouns: she/her/hers), the Clare Boothe Luce Assistant Professor of Physics. Her research interests include ultracold gases, ion trapping, quantum sensing, quantum hydrodynamics, and more. If an experiment uses ultracold atoms, she is excited about it!

Prof. Mossman believes that being a good science communicator and an enthusiastic mentor are some of the most important and lasting contributions scientists can make as members of the community. As such, she tries to have both when interacting with her students and her peers. To learn more, please visit our Members page.

Whether you are curious and simply exploring or you are interested in joining the Quantum Hydrodynamics Lab, we hope you are able to find what you are looking for. If you have any questions, please contact Prof. Mossman!