Girish S. Agarwal is a preeminent theoretical physicist whose pioneering contributions have fundamentally shaped the field of quantum optics for over half a century. He currently serves as a Distinguished University Professor at Texas A&M University with joint appointments across the Departments of Physics and Astronomy, Biological and Agricultural Engineering, and the Institute for Quantum Science and Engineering. Dr. Agarwal received his MS from Banaras Hindu University in 1966 and his PhD from the University of Rochester in 1969, establishing the foundation for his remarkable career in quantum physics. Prior to joining Texas A&M in 2016, he held prominent positions including Regents Professor and Noble Foundation Chair at Oklahoma State University, Director of the Physical Research Laboratory in Ahmedabad, and Professor at the University of Hyderabad where he played a pivotal role in establishing the School of Physics.
Dr. Agarwal's groundbreaking research has made seminal contributions to quantum optics through his development of quantum statistical frameworks for cooperative effects like superradiance and fluctuation dissipation theorems for nonequilibrium systems. His theoretical work on quantum effects in hybrid systems, quantum phase transitions in cavities driven by squeezed light, Frohlich condensates, and coupling of quantum emitters to metamaterials has established foundational principles that guide contemporary research. With nearly 700 research publications and his influential textbook Quantum Optics published by Cambridge University Press, his work spans both theoretical and experimental domains including super-resolution microscopy and quantum sensing for bio-photonics applications. His discovery of quantum electrodynamics with anisotropic vacuum and surface excitation produced enhancement of QED effects represent landmark achievements that have opened new research frontiers across multiple disciplines.
As a Fellow of the Royal Society, American Physical Society, and The World Academy of Sciences, Dr. Agarwal's leadership extends beyond his research to shaping the global quantum science community through mentorship and intellectual guidance. His prestigious accolades including the Max Born Award (1988), Humboldt Research Award (1997), TWAS Physics Prize (1994), and the Charles Townes Medal (2022) reflect the enduring impact of his work across decades. Currently, his research continues to push boundaries in biophysical sensing, nanophysics, and quantum fundamentals with ongoing projects exploring correlated super-resolution microscopy and quantum-enhanced sensing techniques. Dr. Agarwal remains actively engaged in advancing the theoretical foundations that will drive future quantum technologies while mentoring the next generation of scientists who continue to build upon his legacy of excellence in quantum physics.
