How do simple atoms organize into complex, functional states of matter?

Science · Published 23 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Why does a diamond shine while glass remains dull? The answer lies in condensed matter physics. By studying how atoms arrange themselves—whether in perfect repeating lattices or irregular patterns—scientists unlock the secrets of how collective behavior gives rise to the world's most advanced technologies.

By examining how collective particle actions produce unique physical traits, condensed matter physics investigates solid-state substances. Materials like glass, featuring disordered atomic arrangements, and diamond, which possesses a repeating 3D lattice, fall under this category. To comprehend intricate substances from fluorescent proteins to organic superconductors, this branch employs quantum theory to clarify various states. Ross H. McKenzie, an Emeritus Professor at the University of Queensland, specializes in applying quantum theory to these complex materials. His work bridges the gap between fundamental physics and biological systems like fluorescent proteins.

Three primary branches define this academic field: soft condensed matter, photonics, and quantum condensed matter. New physical occurrences are analysed within quantum condensed matter, where many-body interactions and quantum physics intersect. This includes high-temperature superconductivity, quantum spin liquids, and topological quantum matter. Soft condensed matter, by contrast, utilizes statistical physics to study systems in both equilibrium and strongly out of equilibrium states, often linking closely to the field of biophysics. The field also investigates the physics of light and how it interacts with matter within nanostructured materials. Furthermore, physicists are increasingly exploring the intersection of physics and Artificial Intelligence, specifically applying AI to photonics and general physics research.

Modern research is pushing these boundaries into practical engineering and novel material science. For instance, researchers are exploring 'moiré materials' and using gate voltages to control magnetism in tetralayer graphene by sliding its crystal structure between different stacking types. Other breakthroughs include using krypton-assisted growth to create low-loss tantalum on silicon for quantum processors, and exploring the coupling between magnons and excitons to convert microwaves into light. These advancements demonstrate how understanding the microscopic arrangement of matter enables the creation of scalable quantum computers and efficient frequency transduction. Specific experimental evidence has recently characterized an excitonic gap in Ta2Pd3Te5 using local probes. Additionally, researchers have successfully demonstrated microwave-to-optical transduction through strong coupling in CrSBr.

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