Matthew Pelton, professor and chair of physics, and Sebastian Deffner, professor of physics, have been elected 2026 Fellows of the American Physical Society—Pelton in the Division of Laser Science and Deffner in the Division of Statistical and Nonlinear Physics. Only about 0.5 percent of non-student APS members receive this honor each year for pioneering contributions to physics.

Above: Matthew Pelton, right, works in his laboratory with students. 

Pelton, an experimental physicist, uses optical techniques to study how light interacts with nanoscale materials. The research can advance quantum photonics, solar energy conversion, and sensing. “This recognition is especially meaningful and humbling for me, because the APS Fellows include the scientists I respect and admire the most,” Pelton says. “It reminds me how lucky I’ve been to have had the chance to interact and work with so many incredibly talented people—including the extraordinary faculty and students at UMBC.”

Above: Sebastian Deffner, right, works with students in his research group.

Deffner, a theoretical physicist, is a leader in quantum thermodynamics and how quantum systems behave far from equilibrium, aiming to advance quantum information and control for the quantum systems of the future. The fellowship is “a distinct honor that recognizes exceptional contributions to advancement of physics. Thus, I have always looked up to the APS Fellows as someone I would like to be ‘when I grow up,’” Deffner shares. “It is quite surreal to realize that I have now been elevated to their ranks.”

Deffner also serves as chair of the APS division in which he was elected, and both Pelton and Deffner are affiliated with UMBC's Quantum Science Instsitute. 

Marc Seigar, dean of the College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences and a physicist himself, observed that election as an APS Fellow “is a rare national distinction achieved by a fraction of a percent of physicists each year. Dr. Pelton and Dr. Deffner’s election is a tremendous honor that reflects their profound scientific impact and brings immense pride to both CNMS and the broader UMBC community.”