California State University, Long Beach-Ohio State University's Center for Emergent Materials

The partnership between California State University, Long Beach (CSULB) and the NSF MRSEC: Center for Emergent Materials at Ohio State University (OSU) is dedicated to advancing frontier research in magnetic, thin film, and biomaterials while fostering diversity and inclusion in STEM fields. As a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI), CSULB boasts leading master’s-level programs in Physics, Astronomy, Chemistry, and Mathematics, making it an ideal partner for leveraging opportunities to improve the retention and degree attainment of underrepresented minority (URM) students.

This PREM initiative focuses on creating a robust pathway for URM students to pursue advanced degrees in STEM. Programs such as CSULB’s and OSU’s American Physical Society Bridge Programs provide stepping stones for students who may lack the preparation or support to transition directly into PhD programs. By engaging students in sustained research, offering comprehensive mentoring, and providing professional development opportunities, the partnership supports students’ academic and professional growth.

Students and postdocs at both institutions benefit from collaborative research activities, reciprocal exchange programs, and informal faculty and peer mentoring. These initiatives are proven to enhance STEM participation and create a supportive environment that improves degree attainment. Professional development activities and collaborative opportunities further enrich the experience for all participants, fostering a community of scholars dedicated to advancing materials science and broadening participation in STEM.

Through interdisciplinary research and a commitment to diversity, the CSULB-OSU PREM partnership strengthens the collaboration between the institutions, enhances opportunities for underrepresented students, and contributes to cutting-edge advancements in materials science. This partnership is poised to make a lasting impact by preparing the next generation of STEM leaders and expanding access to research and education in materials-focused disciplines.

California State University - Long Beach
Ohio State University
PRG 1

Topological Aspects of Magnetism

This research group focuses on topological aspects of magnetism, where the interplay between magnetism and geometric properties of materials produces non-trivial magnetic phases. For example, magnetic frustration in materials with triangular sub-lattices can lead to quantum phases such as spin liquids, which are a frontier area in both experimental and theoretical materials physics and chemistry.
Research Mentors
Andreas Bill, Ryan Blair, Shahab Derakhshan, Jiyeong Gu, Jay Gupta, P. Chris Hammel, Chuhee Kwon, Michael R. Peterson, Patrick Woodward, Nandini Trivedi
PRG 2

Quantum Materials for QIS in Reduced Dimensions

This research group focuses on tuning magnetic properties in thin film magnetic heterostructures, comprising 2D materials with intrinsic magnetic order and molecular magnets. The atomically-thin nature of 2D magnets, and the possibility of covalent coupling to organic functional groups offers the potential for widely-tunable magnetic properties and interfacial noncollinear magnetism.
Research Mentors
Andreas Bill, Joshua Goldberger, Thomas Gredig, Jay Gupta, Roland Kawakami, P. Chris Hammel, Ezekiel Johnston-Halperin, Claudia Ojeda-Aristizabal, Michael R. Peterson
PRG 3

Biomolecule Topology and Properties

This research group focuses on aspects of topology in biomaterials, with a focus on translating mathematical theories on, e.g., knot formation, to molecular structures realized utilizing DNA origami techniques. This work will probe new ways to understand and control the thermodynamics of self-assembly in living systems.
Research Mentors
Michael Poirier, Ralf Bundschuh, Carlos Castro, Alex Klotz, Ryan Blair

People