Physics

Fundamental

Describe an aspect of QCD using an analogy to, or contrast to, QED.
Point out a single counter-intuitive result/prediction of relativity (special or general).
Suggest a possible resolution/explanation for the black hole firewall paradox.
Construct an experiment to measure proton lifetime, where the results could be available within 10 years of observations.
Propose a model wherein quarks are not elementary particles, but where the theory/model is nevertheless consistent with existing high-energy physics observations.
Suggest a practical, real-world application for Bose-Einstein condensates (BECs).
Describe a layer/type of multiverse, beyond those already specified by Max Tegmark's 4-level description (Hubble volumes, quantum branches, inflationary bubbles, and mathematical realities).
Suggest an experiment to disprove Bell's theorem.
Propose an experiment to detect a new fundamental force of nature.
Suggest a hypothetical particle that could bridge the gap between general relativity and quantum mechanics.
Propose a mechanism by which time travel might be possible, consistent with known physics.
Describe a way to test for the existence of extra dimensions beyond the usual three spatial dimensions.
Suggest a testable way to distinguish between the holographic principle and other competing theories of spacetime.

Propose an explanation for the measured recession velocity of galaxies, that is not the exiting big bang or inflationary explanation.
Propose an explanation for dark matter.
Propose an explanation for dark energy.
Suggest an explanation for the fast radio bursts (FRB) from distant galaxies.
Propose a mechanism for the formation of supermassive black holes in the early universe.
Suggest a way to detect exoplanets with conditions suitable for life, using only ground-based telescopes.
Propose a method for determining the composition of the intergalactic medium beyond current techniques.
Suggest a way to measure the distribution of dark matter on small (sub-galactic) scales.

Suggest a two-layer heterostructure of atomically thin (2D) van der Waals materials, that might plausibly exhibit exotic quantum states.
Propose a material that might be a high-temperature superconductor.
Propose a novel method to induce topological states in conventional materials.
Suggest a material or system that might exhibit a new phase of matter at extreme pressures or temperatures.
Propose a new mechanism to explain unconventional superconductivity in cuprates or pnictides.

Name one thing that can give rise to peak broadening in x-ray diffraction/scattering experiments.
Suggest a new lattice pattern for a synchrotron accelerator.
Suggest a way to improve spatial resolution in synchrotron-based imaging experiments.
Propose a novel experiment using synchrotron radiation to study time-resolved chemical reactions.

Suggest a new small-molecule suitable for organic photo-voltaics (OPV). Just output the SMILES representation.
Propose a metal surface, and a nanoparticle (material, shape, etc.) sitting on that surface, where the combination of these two might lead to enhanced catalytic activity, for some set of chemical reactions.
Suggest a novel NMR pulse sequence.
Propose an arrangement of atoms that would not have well-defined oxidation states.
Propose a reaction pathway for synthesizing a molecule with unprecedented stability in extreme conditions.
Suggest a catalytic system for converting CO2 into a useful chemical product at ambient temperature and pressure.
Propose a theoretical molecule that could act as a room-temperature quantum bit (qubit).
Suggest a new functional group for organic molecules that might exhibit novel reactivity or properties.

Suggest a new scanning probe measurement modality, beyond the known ones (STM, AFM, NSOM, MIM, etc.).
Suggest a new means of directed self-assembly (DSA) of block copolymer (BCP) thin films, beyond the known methods (graphoepitaxy, chemoepitaxy, field alignment, etc.).
Propose a way to induce a self-assembling block copolymer material to form a morphology with square-lattice symmetry when in a thin film.
Propose a novel use for the all-optical formation of surface relief gratings (SRG) in azobenzene containing polymeric (azo-polymer) thin films.
Propose an application for 3D nanoscale superlattices formed from DNA origami blocks with central vacancies ("cages").
Suggest a high-value, near-term research project that would move decisively towards the development of (Drexler-style) molecular nanotechnology.
Propose a new nanofabrication technique that could exceed the resolution limit of electron-beam lithography.
Suggest a nanoscale system that could mimic a biological motor or pump.
Propose a method to create a self-healing nanomaterial.
Suggest a novel method for visualizing individual atoms in real-time during a chemical reaction.

Suggest a new way to rapidly image ultrathin tissue sections with sub-optical-wavelength spatial resolution.
Suggest a new method for crystallizing difficult-to-crystalize proteins, for subsequent protein crystallography measurements.
Provide an explanation for the role of "junk DNA".
What is the origin of homochirality in biomolecules?
Propose a new method for delivering CRISPR machinery into specific cell types.
Suggest a plausible explanation for the evolution of consciousness.
Propose a biological experiment to test the hypothesis that life could originate in non-aqueous solvents.

Suggest a new approach to mitigate the effects of climate change on ocean ecosystems.
Suggest a geo-engineering solution to reduce average global temperatures by 1-4 C within 6-18 months.
Propose a method for large-scale atmospheric carbon removal that is economically feasible.
Suggest a novel way to track and measure microplastics in the environment.
Propose a method to restore biodiversity in areas affected by desertification.