The DOE’s Argonne National Laboratory develops breakthrough technologies and has historically focused on fundamental research. In 2026, superconductivity and magnetism group physicist Yi Li led quantum information science (QIS) developments at the institute. Li received the 2025 Physical Sciences and Engineering (PSE) Early Investigator Named Award for pioneering research that could improve quantum signal control and transmission across numerous physical platforms.
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The 2025 PSE Early Investigator Awards
The Physical Sciences and Engineering directorate at Argonne selects outstanding early-career researchers on the cusp of their specialties each year. Li is one of six recipients in the 2025 cohort who will get committed funding and mentorship to undertake research related to the strategic purpose of the institution. This assistance is intended for Li’s proposal, “Microwave-to-Optical Quantum Transduction with Superconducting Magneto-Optical Systems.”
Li represents the Material Science (MSD) division and is under the guidance of fellow MSD physicist Yue Cao. Chemistry, High Energy Physics, Nanoscience and Technology, and Physics are all included in the larger Physical Sciences and Engineering directorate, of which this division is an essential component.
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Decoding Quantum Transduction and Magnons
The quantum transduction idea is central to Li’s work. This process is the conversion of quantum signals between photons excited by visible light and those excited by microwaves in various physical systems. Constructing intricate quantum networks requires the ability to convert quantum information from one form to another.
Li is doing this by using magnons, which are basic magnetic excitations. Although magnetic recording, sensors, and engines have long employed magnetic materials, Li is investigating their unrealized potential for usage in next-generation electronics and microelectronics. His research focuses on a special characteristic of these materials: the intrinsic relationship between optical and magnetic properties.
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A Prototype for the Future: The Magnon-Superconducting Resonator
A prototype magnon-superconducting resonator is the goal of Li’s proposal. Strong coupling between a microwave-superconducting resonator and optical light is made possible by this technology, which greatly increases the efficiency of microwave-light coupling.
This method’s wide tunability is among its most important benefits. Researchers can obtain a degree of control that is currently lacking in many contemporary quantum transduction schemes, such as those based on opto-mechanics or electric-optic systems, by modifying the magnon frequency. The “control feature” of magnetic materials makes them an extremely viable material platform for QIS in the future.
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Collaboration and Strategic Mission
On behalf of DOE’s Office of Science, Argonne National Laboratory is run by UChicago Argonne, LLC. In a wide range of fields, such as artificial intelligence, carbon management, and microelectronics, the laboratory’s goal is to conduct basic and practical research in order to find answers to urgent national issues.
Li attributes significant scientific advancements to Argonne’s collaborative environment. The Advanced Photon Source (APS) and the Center for Nanoscale Materials (CNM), two national user facilities at the lab, are interconnected, and his work is part of a wider DOE Basic Energy Sciences study on QIS.
To help scientists like Li plan their academic and professional futures, the lab also offers extensive professional development possibilities, such as proposal mentorship programs and writing opportunities like the DOE Early Career Research Program.
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The Scientist Behind the Discovery
Li began his journey into the world’s premier physics frontiers in high school by competing in the U.S. Physics Olympiad. He now finds satisfaction in creating competitive lab trials based on scientific literature.
Despite his demanding profession, Li has a balanced existence outside the lab. Piano musician and soccer fan who attends games two or three times a week. Most importantly, he spends time with his two kids and shares his passions.
In summary
Argonne’s dedication to transformational technologies is demonstrated by the research carried out by Yi Li and his associates. Li is developing the fields of superconductivity and magnetism as well as establishing the foundation for the next generation of quantum computers and microelectronics by discovering new potential in magnetic materials.
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