Complexity in Materials far from Equilibrium - an International Symposium -

Uwe C. Täuber & Michel Pleimling (Virginia Tech), DMR 0757181

The fundamental understanding of cooperative phenomena poses one of the most challenging research problems in current science. This applies especially to materials applications in industrial or laboratory settings far from thermal equilibrium. Prominent examples include fragile and structural glasses, polymers, colloids, and granular matter, but also include molecular motors in cells, magnetic nanostructures, electron glasses in semiconductors and driven magnetic flux lines in type-II superconductors.

Materials out of equilibrium are characterized by an exceptionally rich variety of fascinating phenomena. The goal of this international symposium (www.phys.vt.edu/~workshop2008)was to enhance the information exchange within this highly interdisciplinary arena, where the cross-fertilization of theoretical concepts and mathematical techniques with experimental results and technological motivations promises to be exceptionally fruitful in the future.

Complexity in Materials far from Equilibrium - an International Symposium -

Uwe C. Täuber & Michel Pleimling (Virginia Tech), DMR 0757181

The interplay of ideas and problems from statistical mechanics, condensed matter physics, and material science is of great current interest and holds considerable promise for innovation through its highly interdisciplinary aspects. The focus ofthis international symposium was to provide a forum for exchanging ideas and viewpoints to both experienced and novice researchers in the field.

The NSF funds were specifically used to encourage promising junior researchers, from graduate students to postdoctoral associates and recently hired faculty, to attend and present their research results.

A prominent representation of female and minority attendants was ascertained. Five among the twelve invited speakers were distinguished female colleagues.

Prof. Leticia Cugliandolo (Université Pierre et Marie Curie Paris VI) and graduate student David Adams (University of Michigan) presenting their talks.

Poster session discussion; audience during the talks.