Dr. Francis Robicheaux

Professor

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Biography

Francis Robicheaux is a Professor of Physics at Purdue University, specializing in Theoretical Atomic Physics. His research primarily focuses on coherence and decoherence in quantum systems, the interactions of photons with atoms, and the behavior of highly excited (Rydberg) atoms in strong fields as well as ultracold plasmas. He leads a research group comprised of undergraduates, graduate students, and postdoctoral researchers. Robicheaux is also a prominent member of the ALPHA collaboration, which pertains to trapping antimatter and conducting quantitative measurements of its properties. His academic journey includes significant roles at Auburn University where he served as an Alumni Professor and contributed to various national research initiatives including projects funded by the National Science Foundation and the Department of Energy. Placing an emphasis on computational methods, his research often involves the comparison of results from previous predictions with future experimental outcomes, thereby enhancing the understanding of fundamental atomic processes in quantum simulations.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

2013-08-01 — Present

Purdue University • West Lafayette, IN

Teaching and conducting research in Theoretical Atomic Physics.

Alumni Professor

2004-09-01 — 2009-09-01

Auburn University • Auburn, AL

Led research and taught undergraduate and graduate courses in Physics.

Professor

2003-09-01 — 2013-08-01

Auburn University • Auburn, AL

Directed research teams focused on atomic physics.

Associate Professor

1998-09-01 — 2003-09-01

Auburn University • Auburn, AL

Conducted research and supervised graduate students in physics.

Assistant Professor

1993-09-01 — 1998-09-01

Auburn University • Auburn, AL

Focused on developing undergraduate physics curriculum.

Postdoctoral Fellow

1990-12-01 — 1993-08-01

Joint Institute for Laboratory Astrophysics • Boulder, CO

Researched atomic and molecular processes.

Graduate Research Assistant

1986-05-01 — 1990-12-01

University of Chicago • Chicago, IL

Assisted in research projects while completing Ph.D.

Awards

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Bravo Award

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Eugene J. Clothiaux Faculty Teaching Award

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John Dawson Award for Excellence in Plasma Physics Research

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Dean's Faculty Research Award

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Fellow of the American Physical Society

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NSF Young Investigator Award

Requirements for Purdue University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:80
GRE Subject
Prerequisites
Knowledge of general physics Intermediate level mechanics Electricity and magnetism Statistical and thermal physics Quantum mechanics
Application Checklist
  • Completed Application Form
  • Application Fee
  • Academic Statement of Purpose
  • Official Transcripts
  • Physics and Math Course Listing Form
  • Three Letters of Reference
  • Personal History Statement
Specialization Notes

GRE General and Physics Subject tests are optional but encouraged.