John Nichol, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Physics and Astronomy, University of Rochester

 

2023 Experimental Physics Investigator

John Nichol, Ph.D.
 

Research Description

Thermoelectricity is the generation of electrical power from heat flow and vice-versa. Semiconductor quantum dots are predicted to enable high-efficiency thermoelectric power generation and refrigeration.

The goal of John Nichol’s research is to realize this potential. The team will explore how nanoscale refrigerators based on quantum dots can make quantum computers colder to improve their performance, how the quantum phenomena of superposition and entanglement can enhance thermoelectric power generation and refrigeration, and how to harness the flow of heat to create superposition and entanglement. The unique feature of his approach is the use of optimized, high-performance quantum-dot devices for thermoelectric applications.

Research Impact

Dr. Nichol’s research could improve our understanding of the flow of heat and energy in nanoscale quantum systems and create new ways to realize ultra-low-temperature environments for quantum computing.

 
 

related links

Experimental Physics Investigators Initiative Science University of Rochester, Department of Physics and Astronomy Back

Education

PhD, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
BS, St. Olaf College

Affiliated Investigators