# Light people: Professor Mengkun Liu

## TL;DR

Professor Mengkun Liu's research explores how light interacts with quantum materials at the nanoscale, using advanced optical techniques to study quantum phenomena.

## Contribution

Professor Liu's work introduces new experimental methods and insights into light-matter interactions at the quantum frontier.

## Key findings

- Developed infrared-to-terahertz near-field spectroscopy for observing polaritons and quantum phenomena.
- Advanced magneto-near-field optical microscopy and synchrotron-based infrared nanoscopy techniques.

## Abstract

At the frontier where light meets quantum matter, Professor Mengkun Liu has built a distinctive research program that integrates advanced optical nanoscopy, quantum materials, and emergent light–matter interactions. As a Professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Stony Brook University, he leads the Ultrafast & Near-field Infrared Laboratory (UNI-Lab), where his group pioneers infrared-to-terahertz near-field spectroscopy under extreme conditions, enabling direct visualization of polaritons, collective excitations, and quantum phenomena at the nanoscale. Over the past decade, Professor Liu and his collaborators have not only made fundamental discoveries in quantum materials and nanophotonics but have also reshaped experimental capabilities through instrument innovation - ranging from magneto-near-field optical microscopy to synchrotron-based infrared nanoscopy. In this interview, he reflects on the scientific ideas that drive his research, the philosophy behind building a creative research group, and his perspective on the future of optical science at the quantum frontier.