Quantum Scientist Join CBC Faculty

The Department of Chemistry &  Biochemistry (CBC) welcomes the addition of Yu Liu to its faculty in January 2024!

Yu Liu  is a chemical physicist specializing in the spectroscopy and chemical reactions of ultracold molecules. He earned his Ph.D. in physics at Harvard University, where he completed the first experimental studies of biomolecular chemical reactions initiated at sub-micro-Kelvin temperatures.

As a Post-Doctoral Fellow at the National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST) Boulder, his research focused on quantum state control and precision spectroscopy of single trapped molecular ions. His University of Maryland research will combine quantum physics techniques (e.g., laser cooling, coherent control) with physical chemistry techniques (e.g., molecular spectroscopy, mass spectrometry) to investigate simple gas-phase chemical systems with quantum precision, and improve our fundamental understanding of molecular structures and dynamics. Located in the New Chemistry Building, Yu’s laboratory will provide exciting research opportunities for students of all levels with interest in quantum chemistry adding to UMD’s reputation as the quantum capital. Learn more about Yu Liu.