Both Christopher and Wilson, who appear on the list for the first time, were recognized in the cross-field category, which honors researchers whose publications span multiple disciplines, reflecting the importance of interdisciplinary research. The annual list commends researchers whose work has made broad and lasting impacts over the past eleven years.
Christopher, vice-chair of the Chemical Engineering Department and the Mellichamp Chair of Sustainable Manufacturing, is internationally recognized for his pioneering research in catalysis and surface chemistry. His work focuses on understanding and designing catalytic materials at the atomic level to improve the efficiency and sustainability of chemical and energy conversion processes — from cleaner fuels to carbon utilization.
Wilson, a professor of materials and co-director of UCSB’s Quantum Foundry as well as the newly established Eddleman Quantum Institute, explores the synthesis, design, and quantum properties of complex correlated materials. His research seeks to uncover and control new electronic and magnetic phenomena in transition-metal oxides and related compounds, which could enable next-generation technologies in computing, sensing, and energy applications.