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I am a theoretical physicist, specializing in areas of string theory, quantum field theory, quantum gravity, and quantum information working at the Department of Physics and Astronomy at UC Davis.

I am also part of the Center for Quantum Mathematics and Physics (QMAP). This is an exciting development with a focus on bringing together researchers interested in a wide range of topics in theoretical physics.

Research

My main area of research interest is in the field of string theory, especially its applications to quantum field theory and quantum gravity.

Much of my work has focused on using the holographic AdS/CFT correspondence both to learn new lessons about quantum gravity and to model strongly interacting quantum field dynamics. My current interests include:

  • String theory and black holes
  • Entanglement, quantum information, and holography
  • Hydrodynamics and non-equilibrium dynamics
  • Effective field theories of open quantum systems

You can find more information about my current research interests in my Research pages.

More usefully, you can find my research papers using the INSPIRE HEP search engine: Publication List.

If you are interested in the AdS/CFT correspondence and entanglement entropy, you may find the recent book I co-authored with Tadashi Takayanagi, Holographic entanglement entropy, a useful reference. For further details, see my AdS/CFT correspondence pages.

Teaching

In 2026–27 I am teaching

  • PHY 233: Topics in Geometry and Physics (Fall)
  • PHY 110A: Electricity & Magnetism (Winter)
  • PHY 215B: Quantum Mechanics (Winter)

Find more information about my courses on my Teaching pages.

Contact

QMAP & Department of Physics
University of California, Davis  
One Shields Avenue, Davis,  
CA 95616 USA