Chris Hull conducts research into quantum gravity, a field that aims to discover a unifying theory of quantum theory and general relativity. His particular contributions have been made to superstring theory, which models particles and forces as vibrations of ‘supersymmetric strings’, and supergravity, which combines supersymmetry with general relativity.

Many mathematical challenges facing quantum gravity are being met through Chris’s efforts to bring in, and extend, techniques from geometry and field theory. His work laid the foundations of M-theory, which brings together apparently competing theories. Overall success in quantum gravity would revolutionise our understanding of the fundamental nature of matter and the origins of, and evolution, of our Universe.

Chris is a recipient of the Royal Society’s Wolfson Research Merit Award and the 2003 Institute of Physics Dirac Medal. He leads a major research programme in the Department of Physics at Imperial College London, with investigations that include extended geometries, flux geometries and holographic structures.