Robert Birgeneau

Robert J. Birgeneau is a Professor of Physics, Emeritus, at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, affiliated with the Department of Physics. His research is primarily concerned with the phases and phase transition behavior of novel states of matter, including one- and two-dimensional magnets, liquid crystals, and superconducting materials. He uses neutron and X-ray scattering techniques to probe these systems. Birgeneau has contributed significantly to the use of X-ray synchrotron radiation for high-resolution studies of condensed matter and has conducted extensive research on high-temperature superconducting materials. His work has been recognized through various awards and honors, including the Oliver E. Buckley Condensed Matter Prize and the Karl T. Compton Medal for Leadership in Physics.