Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics Grad Programs

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers on seeking guidance for graduate programs in atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics. The individual, currently pursuing a degree in physics after completing a chemistry degree, is interested in top programs and current challenges in the AMO field. Key programs mentioned include JILA at the University of Colorado-Boulder, Purdue University, Georgia Tech, MIT, Rice University, and the University of Connecticut, with emphasis on the importance of whether the focus is on theoretical or experimental work. The topic of Bose-Einstein condensation and ultracold gases and molecules is highlighted as a significant area of research within AMO physics, inviting further insights and book recommendations from the community.
Moonshine
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Hello everybody,

I currently have a degree in chemistry and I am working on another in physics. I plan on going to grad school when I finish the second degree. That will probably be in four years or so. I'm working full time for the next couple of years while taking classes and then I will pursue the physics degree full-time (bills, ugh).

I'm trying to find out what the best graduate programs in atomic, molecular, and optical physics programs are, but I haven't been able to find all that much. I just thought somebody may be able to point me in the right direction.

Also, if anyone wants to chime in with some major problems that are currently being tackled by the AMO community, feel free to do so. Book recommendations would be cool too!

Any help is greatly appreciated!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Bose-Einstein condensation and the study of ultracold gases and molecules are one of the hottest AMO fields right now (and happens to be what I'm pursuing).

JILA/University of Colorado-Boulder is big in AMO.

At Purdue, we're just getting an ultracold atoms and molecules collaboration going between two groups.

Georgia Tech, MIT (esp. Ketterle), Rice (esp. Hulet), and UConn come to mind as places I've been reading a bunch of papers out of. Depends partially if you want to do theory or experiment too, though it may be too early to tell.
 
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