REU Site: Summer Research Program in Physics

Bucknell University, Lewisburg PA

Investigators

Abstract

The Bucknell University "Summer Research Program in Physics" will give 8 undergraduate students per summer the opportunity to collaborate with a member of the faculty for 10 weeks on his or her research. Projects offered cover many areas of physics. Theoretical research areas include problems in statistical mechanics, quantum optics, modeling of nerve impulses, and computer simulations. Experimental research areas include pattern formation and chaos in complex systems, phase structures and transitions of biological liquid crystals, exotic atoms (positronium), laser diode optical pumping of atomic vapors, and particle physics. In addition, three faculty have research programs in observational astronomy and two more faculty have interdisciplinary projects in mathematics (modeling fluid flow) and chemical engineering (imaging biological materials using evanescent waves). Although Bucknell is an undergraduate institution, the physics department has 10 faculty members contributing projects to this proposal. Bucknell's setting as a small liberal arts college provides the perfect environment for some student's first encounter with full-time research. Approximately six faculty will offer projects each summer, so the level of student faculty interaction will be high. This immersion in a research environment is intended to complement traditional classroom experiences of the students. For many it will be their first contact with the excitement and demands of full-time research. Participation will help students make career choices, and will provide specific preparation for those that continue on to graduate studies in physics. Students will be recruited from around the country. All of the students will live together on the Bucknell campus, conduct most of their research in on-campus facilities, and participate in weekly departmental seminars and colloquia. Students will have the opportunity to present their work in regional and national conferences. Finally, it is anticipated that much of the work of the participants will be published in peer reviewed journals and these papers will include students as co-authors.