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.
Remembering Emeritus Professor Dr. Don Franceschetti, Friday, January 28, at 3 p.m. in the U.C.
It is with regret and sorrow that we communicate the passing of Dr. Don Franceschetti
which occurred on July 1, 2019. Unfortunately, due to issues related to the pandemic
the memorial had to be postponed. Dr. Franceschetti left his mark on the Department
and the University through his leadership, service, and excellent research contributions.
The Department is grateful to him for his dedication to the success of our students
and years of service in leadership roles.
There will be a memorial for Dr. Franceschetti on January 28, 2022 at 3:00 p.m. in
the Shelby Room of the University Center (UC Room 342). For those unable to attend
in person, it will be possible to register and attend via Zoom. A pdf version of this announcement is included to the right.
James Webb Space Telescope Launch
The upcoming launch of the James Webb Space Telescope is an exciting event for the scientific community. We are pleased to hear from Dr. Francisco Muller Sanchez from the Department of Physics and Materials Science at the University of Memphis to describe what this event means for him and his group, and how the data they obtain will be used in their research. For more information, please visit Dr. Muller Sanchez's page.
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.
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.
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.
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