Staff case study: Travis Williams
23 Oct 2025
Instrument scientist and Quantum Science focus area lead
Travis’ interests in the quantum sciences stemmed from the interplay between magnetism and symmetry, amongst other phenomena like superconductivity. The more he dived into them, the more the multi-fold applications of quantum phenomena became his favourite part of physics, such as the applications of spintronics to develop multifunctional devices.
His pursuit to understand the quantum properties of various materials brought him to ISIS. He has, since then, contributed to advancing the instruments at ISIS, and has dived into aspects of quantum materials he hadn’t explored before. His favourite part about his time at ISIS has been researching quasi-2D materials, which are single-layered crystalline materials exhibiting non-repeating patterns and unconventional symmetries, as well as quantum devices driven by spin mechanics and quantum sensors. He also enjoys working on software to help users get more accurate information using the instruments.
Before joining ISIS, his quantum research included working with a uranium-based material with a unique magnetic phase. Discovered almost 30 years ago, the magnetism of this material still stays unknown. “You know the answer is going to be something novel; something never seen before,” Travis says, sharing what delights him most about researching new materials like these, even if it takes a long time for a breakthrough to be made.
Travis is currently working on the new ISIS instrument MUSHROOM as part of the ISIS Endeavour programme. This instrument will have the same momentum/energy range as the LET instrument. However, it has the edge in that it is an indirect geometry instrument that allows more neutrons to hit the samples. This means that MUSHROOM will be able to measure samples as small as 10 milligrams.
Organic superconductors, for example, have so far been really hard to grow in labs, This instrument could allow us to look at novel materials like these, and I look forward to seeing new research in the upcoming years.
Knowing Travis beyond his work:
When you were younger, what did you want to be 'when you grew up'?
A pilot. I actually applied to the military as a pilot before university, but was turned down. So, I went with physics as my 2nd choice.
Who's your favourite scientist?
Marie Curie.Quite a pioneer, and you can't beat Nobel Prizes in Physics and Chemistry.
What book have you just finished reading?
“Godel, Escher, Bach" by Douglas Hofstadter
What's your favourite place on Earth?
Vancouver, Canada. I spent a lot of time there doing experiments in graduate school and I haven't found another place like it.
Can you describe yourself in three words?
Organised, dependable, sarcastic.
Staycation or vacation?
Vacation definitely. I love exploring new places.
