Sonoma State University

Announcing the revised B.S. in Physics starting Fall 2026!

Sonoma State University is proud to launch its revised Bachelor of Science in Physics, featuring a redesigned, student-centered curriculum available beginning Fall 2026. The revised program offers a rigorous physics foundation, small class sizes, close faculty mentorship, and flexible pathways that support timely graduation. Please see our degree programs page for more information.

September 21, 2026

The Search for a Quantum Theory of Gravity

Alexandra Miller

Dr. Alexandra Miller
Sonoma State University

Darwin 103
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM

For over one hundred years, physicists have known that our universe is governed by the principles of quantum mechanics. Additionally, astronomical observational data supports the idea that gravitation is accurately described as a curvature of spacetime, which is formalized in Einstein’s theory of General Relativity. If these two theories are truly fundamental, then one should be able to apply them simultaneously. Unfortunately, when we try to do so, they prove surprisingly difficult to reconcile. This suggests that we need a deeper theory to fully describe our universe: a quantum theory of gravity. In this talk, Professor Miller will discuss the ongoing efforts to establish a consistent framework that unites our understanding of quantum mechanics with gravitation.