Catalyst for innovative research in Physics and Materials Science, Education, and Training
Our Goal
Our goal is to advance scientific knowledge and innovation while at the same time
educating the next generation of talented scientists. Our dedicated faculty supports
this mission with cutting-edge research, unique programs, and a supportive learning
environment.
Physics Alumnus Dr. Rex Gandy Discusses His Career and the Impact of Physics on It
Dr. Gandy shares that his course of study and mentors at the UofM influenced his career path, and we celebrate the achievements of an alumnus of the department. These insights into Dr. Gandy's thoughts about physics before, during and after his time as a student at the UofM provide helpful perspectives for students interested in or currently pursuing degrees or careers in physics. Read more here.
Physics Summer Camp for High School Students in July
We are pleased to announce our 2021 Physics Summer Camp, which will be held in a virtual format from July 12 to July 16. This program will provide opportunities for high school students to learn about astronomy, space science, optics, and physics as it applies to biology and materials among other topics. The virtual camp is open to high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors as of Fall 2021. For more information, please see the attached flyer and register here.
REGISTER HERE
Remembering UofM Emeritus Professor Narahari Achar
It grieves us to announce that Professor Emeritus Narahari Achar passed away on April 23, 2021. Dr. Narahari Achar joined the Physics faculty at the University of Memphis in 1984. He had a broad research interests ranging from topics in the electric properties of materials to applied fractional calculus to ancient astronomy and published prolifically in these areas. His wise, encouraging words and affable demeanor benefited his colleagues and students at the University of Memphis. He will be greatly missed.
We would invite you to visit Dr. Achar's online memorial, which is a testament to the positive impact his life had on faculty, staff, students--all those who had the pleasure of knowing him. The slide show below is offered in tribute to him.
Department of Physics and Materials Science Offer Preparation for Physics on the MCAT
The Department of Physics and Materials Science is pleased to announce that we are offering Physics for MCAT. Registrations are due by May 22. For more information and to register, click here.
Fundraising Launch for Voyage Solar System Scale Model at Main UofM Campus; Please Follow Link to Explore and Donate
The Department of Physics and Materials Science is proud to announce UofM approval of a scale model of the solar system contingent on the funds being raised. The Voyage Solar System model is on a 10 billion-to-one scale, which corresponds to 2,000 feet from the Sun to Pluto for this model. It is envisioned that it would lie along a north-south walkway passing through the center of the main UofM campus as shown in the pictures below. Please follow this link to learn more and donate. Matching funds will be provided for up to $20,000 in donations.
Dr. Meg Urry of Yale University to Deliver 2021 Lois McGlothlin Donaldson Endowed Lecture in Physics (Register Here)
It is an honor to announce that Dr. Meg Urry will deliver the 2021 Lois McGlothlin Donaldson Endowed Lecture in Physics on the topic of Black Holes, Galaxies and the Evolution of the Universe. The lecture will be streamed online via Zoom on Friday, March 26, 2021 at 6:30 p.m. Dr. Urry is the Director of the Yale Center for Astronomy and Astrophysics at Yale University. This lecture will trace the development of black holes at the center of galaxies throughout the history of the universe as this influences galactic evolution. Descriptions of a black hole will be presented, and the process by which the universe evolved to its present state will be elucidated through the presentation of recent observations and computer simulations.
Physics Alumna Michele Wilson Recalls Time at UofM; Describes Influence it had on Career
Studying physics provides insight and understanding into many facets of the natural world: from learning about the fundamental concepts of matter, motion, forces, energy, and heat to the skills and techniques that yield solutions to complicated and important real-world problems. Michele Wilson reminisces about the journey that led her to study physics, shares experiences of her time as a Physics student at the UofM, and provides insight into how the breadth and depth of her physics training contributed to her rewarding career path.
Accepting Applications for Summer 2021 REU at the University of Memphis
Applications are now being accepted for the Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) at the University of Memphis. The 10-week, research-intensive program will start on June 7, 2021 and will end on August 13, 2021. The deadline to apply is February 28, 2021. For more information please see or download the flyer to the right.
UM Physics Professor Discusses Nobel Prize Winning Work of his Ph.D. Advisor Dr. Reinhard Genzel
On December 8, 2020, the Nobel Prize Ceremony took place, in which Dr. Reinhard Genzel (along with Dr. Roger Penrose and Dr. Andrea Ghez) gave his Nobel Lectures and was awarded 2020 Nobel Prize in Physics. Please follow this link to see Dr. Muller Sanchez discuss the details of this scientific discovery. Additionally, Dr. Muller Sanchez shares what it was like to work with Dr. Genzel and the factors that contributed to his success.
Department of Physics and Materials Science News and Highlights
Follow the Department of Physics and Materials Science faculty and students in their research, presentations, travels and accomplishments. Read More