Our research lies at the convergence of condensed matter physics, ultrafast photonics and spectroscopy. It encompasses the development of new and customized femtosecond laser sources and accompanying spectroscopic techniques and employing them in tandem to unravel properties of quantum materials when they are at equilibrium and when they are in excited states. In a long-term scientific goal, we seek to implement photonic manipulation and control of quantum states/phases within solids.