Christopher Woodgate

Fulbright All-Disciplines Scholar Award - Northeastern University

Chris is an early-career academic whose work spans the disciplines of theoretical physics and computational materials science. Currently based in Bristol, he specialises in computational modelling of alloys and magnetic materials at the atomic and sub-atomic length scales, and aims to make predictions which give detailed insight into experimentally observed phenomena. As a Fulbrighter at Northeastern University, Chris will have the unique opportunity to be embedded in a leading experimental group working on the synthesis and characterisation of permanent magnet materials - those materials which convert electricity to motion, and vice versa, in devices such as electrical motors and generators. Working closely with his hosts, he will build an iterative design-make-manufacture loop using alloying to optimise the performance of two currently under-utilised permanent magnet materials. His work will offer a potential route towards permanent magnet materials that are lower in cost, more sustainable, and less reliant on critical rare-earth elements. When not thinking about magnets, Chris enjoys the somewhat unusual hobby of English-style change ringing. In Boston, he will link up with the band that rings at Old North Church, from which Paul Revere famously made his midnight ride. There, he hopes to have the opportunity to teach others and share his enthusiasm.