The Emerging Science and Technology of Single Atomic Layers: 2023 Benjamin Franklin Medal in Physics presented to Philip Kim, Ph.D.

Condensed matter physics is the subfield of physics that studies the properties of matter in all its manifestations, based on the most basic principles and interactions between electrons and atoms. This leads naturally to the discovery of new materials with new and unexpected properties. From this, the step is not long to the application of these new materials to new devices with potentially useful commercial applications. Condensed matter physics is therefore the subfield that has the closest connection to more applied areas of science, such as chemistry, and engineering.Philip Kim is being honored with the Benjamin Franklin Medal in Physics for his contributions to creating novel ultrathin materials. His work has led to the discovery of new phenomena deepening our knowledge in new and unexpected ways. He has further used this knowledge to create combinations of ultrathin layers creating novel devices of potentially huge commercial interest. His work has helped stimulate an enormous increase in research in this field all over the world. His leadership is evidenced in his papers being cited some 10,000 times yearly.Kim's work has changed the course of condensed matter research and made a huge impact across multiple disciplines beyond condensed matter physics. His work is characterized by the highest intellectual and technical quality without flash and hyperbole. To quote one of his peers, "Kim is arguably the most accomplished experimental condensed matter physicist of his generation." And another one, "It is exceptionally rare when such a tectonic change in a major research field involving tens of thousands research groups can be unambiguously linked to the discoveries of one or several individuals."