Dr. Justin Bergfield

Research Interests & Areas

My group's research interests focus on systems where uniquely quantum resources, such as non-classical correlations (entanglement) and matter wave effects (superposition, interference), can be used to overcome classical design challenges or avoid them entirely. We develop the theories and codes necessary to investigate the entropy, charge, and spin transport through molecular junctions, open quantum systems composed of macroscopic electrodes coupled to microscopic molecules.

These systems are ideal for investigating the interplay between strongly correlated matter, quantum nonequilibrium thermodynamics, and information theory since quantum effects typically dominate a molecular junction’s response (even at room temperature) and can be harnessed via molecular design or junction symmetry. With our theories we study both fundamental and applied aspects of thermoelectric, spintronic, and “entanglement generation” quantum computing devices.