Tré A. Willingham , Ph.D. student

Tré A. Willingham is a Ph.D. student in Applied Physics at the University of California, Irvine, studying low-dimensional quantum materials in the Sanchez-Yamagishi Lab. His research explores how materials behave when confined to extremely small dimensions and develops new experimental platforms for investigating their electrical and quantum properties. He is especially interested in how these systems can inform future quantum and electronic technologies. Willingham began his academic journey at community college, an experience that continues to shape his commitment to mentorship and expanding access to research opportunities. Alongside his doctoral work, he mentors students at multiple stages of their education. His long-term goal is to lead an academic research group working at the intersection of quantum materials, quantum sensing, and experimental physics.

UC Noyce Initiative Research Project Summary

Willingham design and explore ultra-thin materials that act as new “landscapes” for electrons, where reducing matter to just a few atoms thick can produce unusual electrical and quantum behaviors that could enable future technology.