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Alumni Spotlight: Wei Guo

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July 11, 2024

Dr. Wei Guo, who served as a research scientist and postdoctoral associate for the Daniel N. McKinsey group at Yale Physics from 2008-2012, is a professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Florida State University (FSU) since 2012; with associate appointments at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory and the Department of Physics. His research spans quantum fluid dynamics, helium-based dark matter search, cryogenic accelerator physics, quantum-fluid-based qubit R&D, and liquid hydrogen aviation. Guo completed his Ph.D. in physics at Brown University in 2008. 

Guo’s work has received support from federal agencies such as the National Science Foundation, the United States Department of Energy, NASA, and the Army Research Office, as well as support from national laboratories and industry partners. His contributions to research have garnered him several awards, including the JSPS Invitation Fellowship Award, the Moore Foundation Experimental Physics Investigators Award, and the Outstanding Research Accomplishment Award from the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering. In 2023, he was elected as a Fellow of the American Physical Society in recognition of his contributions to the quantum fluid research field.

What kind of research did you do in the department? And where?

I worked at Yale University with Prof. Daniel N. McKinsey, initially as a postdoc from August 2008 to July 2010, and subsequently as a research scientist from August 2010 to July 2012.

During this period, my primary research focus was on developing flow visualization techniques using metastable helium excimer molecules to study quantum turbulence in superfluid helium-4. Superfluid helium-4, also known as He II, is a material whose hydrodynamic behavior is profoundly influenced by quantum mechanics. It features an exceptionally efficient heat-transfer mechanism known as thermal counterflow, making He II extensively useful in various scientific and engineering applications, such as cooling superconducting magnets, satellites, and medical instruments.

Additionally, He II allows the generation of turbulent flows with exceptionally high Reynolds numbers in compact flow facilities, enabling the simulation of large-scale turbulence typically produced by airplanes and submarines. However, our understanding and ability to effectively utilize He II’s hydrodynamics have been hindered by the lack of precise flow measurement tools in this extremely cold liquid. Therefore, developing quantitative flow visualization tools for He II is of tremendous importance.

My work at Yale led to several publications, one of which (Phys. Rev. Lett 105, 045301 (2010)) was selected as a PRL Editors’ Suggestion and featured in Physics Magazine (Physics 3, 60 (2010)). All my research activities were conducted at the Yale Wright Laboratory.

What kind of research are you doing now?

After joining the faculty of the Mechanical Engineering Department at FSU in 2012, I continued my research on turbulent flows and quantized vortices in He II, utilizing advanced flow visualization techniques.

My group at FSU pioneered an innovative molecular tagging velocimetry technique, significantly enhancing the measurement precision and capabilities in He II. With these robust tools, alongside numerical modeling, we resolved several long-standing challenges in He II turbulence, substantially advancing our understanding of quantum fluid dynamics. This work led to my election as an American Physical Society Fellow in 2023.

Beyond quantum fluid dynamics, my research portfolio has expanded to encompass a broad spectrum of topics in both science and engineering, including WIMP dark matter search, cryogenic accelerator physics, quantum-fluid-based qubit R&D, and liquid hydrogen aviation. Our projects have garnered support from federal agencies and private foundations, including the National Science Foundation, the U.S. Department of Energy, NASA, the Army Research Office, and the Betty Gordon Moore Foundation.

As a scientist, can you describe what you do on a usual day to conduct your research?

As a faculty member at FSU, my typical day involves a diverse array of tasks across multiple research areas, teaching, and administrative duties.

Mornings are often dedicated to laboratory work, which might include experiments in various fields. This is followed by sessions of data analysis or meetings with my research team to discuss findings and strategies.

Teaching is another crucial part of my day, where I lecture on mechanical engineering topics and specialized subjects tailored to my research interests.

I also hold administrative roles, such as serving the graduate program director for our department and as the associate director of the FSU Quantum Initiative program. These positions require me to oversee program development, coordinate with faculty, and manage student affairs.

My afternoons are typically reserved for writing research papers and proposals for grant applications. These writing tasks are vital for securing the necessary support to advance our work and sustain the research group.

I also spend time organizing workshops and conferences, which are essential for knowledge exchange and networking within the professional community.

This blend of research, teaching, and service makes each day dynamic and fulfilling.

How did your time in Yale Physics prepare you for what you are doing now?

My time at Yale University provided a solid foundation that has been essential in my current research and academic roles at FSU.

At Yale, I developed a deep expertise in flow visualization techniques, using metastable helium excimer molecules to study quantum turbulence in He II. This experience not only built my experimental and theoretical skills but also established a vital understanding of complex quantum fluid phenomena.

Continuing this trajectory at FSU, I’ve expanded these methodologies by pioneering molecular tagging velocimetry techniques in He II. The skills and knowledge I acquired at Yale have been crucial in tackling more complex challenges in quantum turbulence, significantly advancing the field of quantum fluid dynamics.

Moreover, my tenure at Yale was not just about technical growth; it also offered invaluable opportunities to collaborate with leading experts in the field. Building relationships with prominent researchers during this time enhanced my network and opened up further collaborative and developmental opportunities, which have been instrumental in my later career. These interactions have also enriched my capabilities in research leadership and have been pivotal in securing my success in securing grants, publishing influential papers, and contributing effectively to the academic and scientific community.

This blend of technical skill development and professional networking at Yale has profoundly influenced my approach and achievements at FSU.

What inspires and/or excites you about your research?

As far as my research on quantum fluid dynamics is concerned, what excites me about is the profound connection between the fundamental principles and their broad spectrum of applications across different scientific domains and technologies. Delving into the fascinating behaviors of superfluid and quantized vortices not only satisfies a deep curiosity about the underlying physics of quantum systems but also bridges theoretical concepts with real-world phenomena like superfluid neutron stars and cosmic strings. This ability to link laboratory observations with potential cosmic events is thrilling.

Moreover, the diversity of my research portfolio—from dark matter searches to quantum computing and cryogenic technologies—provides a continuous stream of interdisciplinary challenges and opportunities. Each project invites innovative thinking and collaboration across different fields, enhancing the potential for groundbreaking discoveries. This dynamic intersection of fundamental science with practical applications not only fuels my passion for discovery but also holds the promise of contributing to technological advancements that could have a significant impact on society and the environment. The prospect of making a difference in both the scientific community and the broader world is a powerful motivator in my work.

Are you involved in any outreach, and if so, what, and why is it important to do outreach as a professional scientist?

I am actively involved in a variety of outreach activities that aim to foster public engagement and education in science, particularly within the field of STEM.

One of the key events is the annual Open House at the National High Magnetic Field Laboratory, where my lab is based. This event draws over 10,000 visitors each year, ranging from children to adults, who come to enjoy hands-on science demonstrations. Some of our most popular demonstrations include the phase change in balloons and the cryogenic rocket car, which not only entertain but also educate the public about the fascinating aspects of physics and engineering.

In addition to these public events, we are deeply engaged in the National Science Foundation-funded educational programs such as the Research Experiences for Teachers (RET) and the Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU). These programs are crucial for spreading the excitement and knowledge of scientific research to educators and undergraduate students, thereby amplifying the impact of our work beyond the academic community. Engaging with educators is especially effective because they carry forward our scientific insights to a broader audience of students.

My commitment to outreach also extends to mentoring roles in the Middle School Mentorship (MSM) program, where I guide middle school students from Leon County, Florida, in semester-long research projects. This early engagement aims to spark a sustained interest in science and encourages young students to consider future careers in STEM fields.

Overall, outreach is a vital part of my role as a professional scientist because it helps demystify science for the public, inspires the next generation, and highlights the societal relevance of our research.

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