Prof. Folland is part of the Condensed Matter and Materials Physics research area at the University of Iowa Department of Physics and Astronomy, focusing on mid- and far-infrared nanophotonics and quantum materials research, from fundamental properties to device applications.

Since joining the University of Iowa in Fall 2020, Prof. Folland has developed new infrared microscopy and nanophotonic approaches for materials characterization and sensing. His group’s recent work includes highly birefringent metasurfaces, molecular infrared sensors, and advanced spectroscopy tools for thin films and devices. He is the recipient of an NSF CAREER Award supporting research on light propagation in the lowest-symmetry crystals and holds active grants in twisted optics and power-electronic materials characterization. His research integrates physics, materials science, electrical engineering, and chemistry. 

His graduate work involved the development of frequency tunable terahertz lasers, implemented using graphene plasmonics. After his doctoral work, he took a postdoc position in the lab of Prof. Joshua Caldwell in the school of Mechanical Engineering at Vanderbilt University. At Vanderbilt, he led the setup of the Caldwell lab and developed new approaches to infrared spectroscopy for the study of nanophotonics systems, including 2D materials and semiconductors.

Outside the lab, Prof. Folland is an active member of the MRS Early Career Subcommittee, where he has been involved in developing career development programming for doctoral and post-doctoral researchers. He is also enjoying, cycling, hiking, and the odd bit of rock climbing and skiing.