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Travis L Nicholson

Assistant Professor of Physics
Physics
Box 90529, Durham, NC 27701
701 W. Main Street, Suite 2100 Chesterfield, Durham, NC 27701

Research Interests


My research focuses on quantum science experiments with ultracold gases of neutral atoms. My team has pioneered ultracold physics with Main Group III (Group 13) atoms. We were the first to laser cool a Group III atom to near absolute zero, as well as the first to prepare these atoms in pure quantum states and optically trap them. I occasionally do theoretical physics research, and some of my work includes proposals for novel lasers and new quantum sensor designs. 

Selected Grants


Quantum Systems Accelerator

ResearchInvestigator · Awarded by Ernest Orlando Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory · 2026 - 2030