February 7, 2025 | Adapted from an article published by the UW College of Arts & Sciences
CEI Member Faculty Xiaodong Xu, Boeing Professor of Physics and Professor of Materials Science & Engineering at the University of Washington (UW), has received the National Academy of Sciences (NAS) Award for Scientific Discovery.
The award, presented every two years, recognizes an accomplishment or discovery in basic research within the previous five years that is expected to have a significant impact on astronomy, biochemistry, biophysics, chemistry, materials science, or physics. Honorees receive a medal, a $50,000 prize, and $50,000 to support the recipient’s research. Xu will be honored in a ceremony on Sunday, April 27, 2025 during the National Academy of Sciences’ 162nd annual meeting. The ceremony will be livestreamed.
Xu’s research explores new quantum phenomena in layered two-dimensional materials and engineered quantum systems. His work not only deepens our understanding of fundamental concepts such as topology, magnetism, and strong electron interactions, but also paves the way for transformative advancements in quantum technologies, including computing, energy, and communication.
More specifically, NAS recognized Xu for groundbreaking experimental observation of the fractional quantum anomalous Hall effect, a discovery that marks a major breakthrough towards the realization of topological quantum bits (qubits) — a crucial step toward achieving fault-tolerant quantum computing, an advancement that could revolutionize every aspect of our society.
“This award is a tremendous recognition from the scientific community of our discovery of the fractional quantum anomalous Hall effect,” said Xu. “It opens an exciting new research frontier in correlated topology, and my team and I are thrilled to explore its potential.”
Daniel Pollack, divisional dean of natural sciences in the UW College of Arts & Sciences, is pleased to see NAS recognize UW faculty for work at the forefront of research in the mathematical and physical sciences.
“Professor Xu’s work, in resolving long outstanding conjectures and experimentally discovering new physical phenomena, represents the best aspects of fundamental science research conducted at this university,” Pollack said. “As UW researchers advance our understanding of the world, new questions and areas of exploration arise, which become fertile ground for our students and the next generation of scientists.”
The National Academy of Sciences is a private, nongovernmental institution that was established under a congressional charter signed by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863 to advise the nation on issues related to science and technology. It recognizes achievement in science and — along with the National Academy of Engineering and the National Academy of Medicine — provides independent, objective analysis and advice to the nation and conducts other activities to solve complex problems and inform public policy decisions.
Contact Prof. Xu at xuxd@uw.edu.
