Predicting detonation

Calculating the properties of crystals
For more than a decade, Warren Perger has collaborated with a team of researchers at MIT and Washington State University to understand how deformations in crystals ultimately lead to the initiation of a shock and, consequently, a detonation. Researchers at Washington State are performing IR, Raman, and optical absorption studies of energetic crystals; MIT is performing femto-second resolution experiments of the shock-to-detonation transition; and Perger is developing theoretical predictions for these phenomena. READ MORE

Five New Degree Programs Offered

Michigan Tech has received authorization from the state to implement five new degree programs. Max Seel, provost and vice president for academic affairs, says the degrees will help the University achieve its strategic goal of becoming an institution of international stature—and to be attractive to students and faculty from around the world.
Bachelor of Arts in Physics and Bachelor of Arts in Physics with a concentration in secondary education: Seel says, “The motivation for offering a BA in physics is to provide students with a strong foundation in the field, but fewer course requirements. It’s basically what I think the American Physical Society said in its gender equity report—to create flexible tracks for physics majors. This BA, then, basically offers flexibility. It has nothing to do with less rigor, but to create more job opportunities.” Seel adds, “The secondary education track in the physics BA will directly address the need for more high school physics teachers. Recent studies have shown that more than half of high school teachers teaching physics do not have a degree or minor in physics or physics education.”

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2012 Distinguished Teaching Awards Nominations in Physics

The Center for Teaching, Learning and Faculty Development seeks input for its annual Distinguished Teaching Awards, which recognize outstanding contribution to the instructional mission of the University. Finalists in physics include Will Cantrell and John Jaszczak in the Associate Professor/Professor Category. Submit comments by March 30.

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