Department of Physics
Self-Study Report
December 2006
Department Chair: James L. Horwitz, Ph.D.
University of Texas at Arlington
Department of Physics
Box 19059
Arlington, TX 76019
Phone: (817) 272-0991
Fax: (817) 272-3637
horwitz@uta.edu
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Program Administration ........................................................................................................................................ 4
1.1 Administrative Chain of Command ............................................................................................................... 4
1.2 Organizational Structure................................................................................................................................ 4
1.3 Degrees Offered ............................................................................................................................................ 6
1.4 Degrees Awarded .......................................................................................................................................... 6
2. Program Mission, Purpose, and Goals .................................................................................................................... 6
2.1 Department of Physics Mission Statement .................................................................................................... 6
2.2 Educational Objectives of the Program ......................................................................................................... 7
2.2.a Undergraduate Programs ....................................................................................................................... 7
2.2.b Graduate Programs ................................................................................................................................ 8
2.2.b.1 Objectives of the Programs ........................................................................................................... 8
2.2.b.2 Degree Requirements: Master of Science ..................................................................................... 8
2.2.b.3 Degree Requirements: Doctor of Philosophy ............................................................................... 8
2.2.b.4 General Rules ................................................................................................................................ 9
2.2.b.4.a Transfer of Credit .................................................................................................................. 9
2.2.b.4.b Program of Work ................................................................................................................... 9
2.2.b.4.c Grades.................................................................................................................................... 9
2.2.b.4.d Funding/Assistantships.......................................................................................................... 9
2.2.b.4.e Changes of Program ............................................................................................................ 10
2.2.b.4.f Research ............................................................................................................................... 10
2.2.b.4.g Doctoral Programs – Diagnostic/Qualifying Examination .................................................. 10
2.2.b.4.h Doctoral Programs – Comprehensive Examination ............................................................. 11
2.2.b.5 Degree Program Requirements .................................................................................................... 11
2.2.b.5.a Masters of Science Degree in Physics: Thesis Option ........................................................ 11
2.2.b.5.b Masters of Science Degree in Physics: Non-thesis Option ................................................. 11
2.2.b.5.c Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematical Sciences: Physics .................................................. 11
2.2.b.5.d Doctor of Philosophy in Physics and Applied Physics ........................................................ 12
2.2.b.5.d.1 Courses ........................................................................................................................ 12
3. Description of the Programs ................................................................................................................................ 12
3.1 Admission ................................................................................................................................................... 12
3.2 Student Advising ......................................................................................................................................... 13
3.3 Transfer Students ........................................................................................................................................ 13
3.4 Faculty Availability ..................................................................................................................................... 13
3.5 Student Course Evaluations......................................................................................................................... 14
3.6 Undergraduate Programs ............................................................................................................................. 14
3.6.a Requirements for a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physics ................................................................ 14
3.6.b Requirements for a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physics with Medical School Preparation ........... 15
3.6.c Requirements for a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Physics ...................................................................... 15
3.7 Graduate Programs ...................................................................................................................................... 16
3.7.a Degrees Offered................................................................................................................................... 16
3.7.b Graduate Student Advising ................................................................................................................. 16
3.7.c Examinations ....................................................................................................................................... 17
3.7.d Graduate Degree Requirements ........................................................................................................... 18
3.7.d.1 Masters of Science Degree in Physics: Thesis Option ................................................................ 18
3.7.d.2 Masters of Science Degree in Physics: Non-thesis Option ......................................................... 18
3.7.d.3 Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematical Sciences: Physics .......................................................... 18
3.7.d.4 Doctor of Philosophy in Physics and Applied Physics ................................................................ 19
3.7.e Degrees Granted Since 1990 ............................................................................................................... 19
3.7.f Graduate Student Statistics .................................................................................................................. 23
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4.0 The Support Staff ............................................................................................................................................. 24
5.0 The Program’s Faculty ..................................................................................................................................... 26
5.1 Faculty Profile ............................................................................................................................................. 26
5.2 Faculty Backgrounds ................................................................................................................................... 26
5.3 Faculty Research and Scholarly Activities .................................................................................................. 28
6.0 Description of Facilities ................................................................................................................................... 29
6.1 Teaching Facilities ...................................................................................................................................... 29
6.2 Research Facilities....................................................................................................................................... 30
7.0 Program Budget................................................................................................................................................ 31
8.0 Evaluation of the State of the Program ............................................................................................................. 31
9.0 Goals and Future Challenges ............................................................................................................................ 32
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1. PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION
1.1
Administrative Chain of Command
James Spaniolo, President
Dana Dunn, Provost
Phil Cohen, Dean of Graduate School
Paul Paulus, Dean of Science
Graduate Studies Committee, Physics
James L. Horwitz, Chair of Physics
Graduate Advisors
Faculty
Staff
Undergraduate
Advisor
Graduate Students
Undergraduate Students
1.2
Organizational Structure
The Department of Physics, along with the Departments of Biology, Chemistry and
Biochemistry, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Mathematics, and Psychology, is housed within the
College of Science. The Chair of the Department reports to the Dean of the College. The Department
has an Associate Chair and Administrative Services Officer who deal with a number of administrative
tasks for the Department, and they report to the Chair. The Department has two additional staff
positions, and these individuals report directly to the Administrative Services Officer.
Decisions relating to academic matters, such as curriculum and faculty hiring, are made by the
tenured/tenure track faculty. Annual evaluations/continuation recommendations for non tenured faculty
and promotion and tenure decisions are made by the tenured faculty. Generally, a committee is charged
with the initial consideration of a matter and delivering a written or verbal report/recommendation to the
full faculty or tenured faculty, as the case demands. The concerned faculty may accept, modify or reject
the committee’s recommendation(s) in favor of an alternative proposal or plan. The Chair has an
independent vote in annual evaluation/ continuation cases and promotion and tenure recommendations.
4
Budgetary decisions, while usually discussed with faculty members and relevant staff as appropriate, are
ultimately the responsibility of the Chair.
Undergraduate course requirements for offered degrees are determined by the Undergraduate
Curriculum Committee, with approval by the entire faculty. Undergraduate students are currently
advised primarily by our Academic Advisers, Drs. Andrew Brandt, Ali Koymen, and Roy Rubins.
Students follow degree plans, on forms usually prepared by the faculty advisors, listing the courses
required and electives for each degree. The advisors counsel and advise students based on these plans
and, when/where questions arise, direct students to appropriate faculty members for resolution.
Following satisfactory iteration with an individual student, the advisor completes and files the student’s
degree plan with the University.
Oversight of graduate programs within the department is the responsibility of the Graduate
Studies Committee (GSC). All Physics faculty are either full members [tenured faculty], associate
members [untenured, but tenure track] or special associates [chiefly tenured faculty from other
departments or adjunct faculty who may teach graduate courses and serve on, but not chair, a graduate
student’s supervisory committee] of the graduate faculty of the University. Full membership in the
graduate faculty is granted with tenure. The Physics GSC consists of all graduate faculty members,
excluding adjuncts, and is currently chaired by Dr. Ali Koymen. The GSC sets the requirements for
graduate degrees; hears and rules on petitions from students on requests to waive degree requirements or
other special requests; considers those students in the program deemed by their supervisory committee,
teaching supervisor, supervising professor or the Graduate Advisor, as not making satisfactory progress
and informs the students, directly or through the Graduate Advisor, of required
changes/accomplishments needed to continue in the program; considers other matters relating to conduct
of the graduate program.
Complementing the GSC is the Graduate Admissions Committee (GAC), which is currently
chaired by Dr. Qiming Zhang, who is also the Graduate Advisor (GA). The GA is a faculty member
nominated by the Chair and approved by the Dean of the Graduate School, who is charged with ensuring
that requirements set forth by the Graduate School and the departmental GSC are met by each graduate
student. The GAC evaluates applicants for graduate admission and grants and denies admission. The
GAC also recommends to the Chair candidates for departmental graduate assistantships. The GA
corresponds with and tracks potential applicants informing them of faculty and research interests,
entrance requirements, availability of financial assistance, documents required by the Graduate School to
complete application for graduate school admission, deadlines set by the Graduate School for receipt of
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completed applications, and receives and delivers completed application forms provided by the Graduate
School to the GAC for consideration. He corresponds with entering students by informing them of dates
by which they are expected to arrive, and the dates and times of University and departmental orientation
and advising sessions. Moreover, the GA deals directly with individual graduate students and, generally,
is responsible for advising graduate students during their first semester of enrollment, or until a student
selects a supervising professor. He ensures that required exams [qualifier, comprehensive/dissertation
proposal, thesis/dissertation defenses] for enrolled students are scheduled in a timely manner and is
responsible for reporting the results of these exams to the Graduate School. He also ensures that
students have the prerequisites required for the program, or removes deficiencies promptly, completes
courses required by their supervisory committee, meets the hour requirements of the Graduate School
and files degree plans reflecting such. The supervisory committee determines whether a student has
passed or failed an exam, written an acceptable/unacceptable thesis/dissertation and
successfully/unsuccessfully defended the thesis/dissertation; however, only the GA is authorized to
notify the Graduate School of the results.
1.3
Degrees Offered
B.A., Physics
B.S., Physics
B.S., Physics with Medical School Preparation
B.S., Physics with Engineering Emphasis
M.S., Physics
Ph.D., Physics and Applied Physics
1.4
Degrees Awarded
B.S., Physics
M.S., Physics
Ph.D., Physics
TOTAL
2000-2001
6
5
2
13
2001-2002
3
4
0
7
2002-2003
4
7
4
15
2003-2004
3
5
1
9
2004-2005
7
8
2
17
2005-2006
4
0
1
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2. PROGRAM MISSION, PURPOSE, AND GOALS
2.1
Department of Physics Mission Statement
The mission of the Department of Physics is to serve the University, the local community and the
nation by the provision of first rate programs in physics teaching and research and the dispensation of
scientific, educational and related services to the widest possible constituency. In following this mission
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the department aims to work in a manner consistent with all the more general aims and aspirations of the
University mission.
2.2
Educational Objectives of the Program
2.2a
Undergraduate Programs
The Department of Physics offers two Bachelors of Science Degree programs and a
Bachelor of Arts Degree program. The Bachelor of Science Degree programs include one which
prepares students for careers in science and technology and another for medical school
preparation. The Bachelor of Arts Degree in physics is intended for those students who seek a
broader education while retaining a firm foundation in physics. When combined with the
requisite education courses, the Bachelor of Arts program can also be tailored for students
interested in becoming high school Physics teachers.
Students considering a major in physics are encouraged to schedule an appointment with
an undergraduate physics departmental advisor to discuss their degree options and their career
prospects as physicists. Physics majors are also encouraged to take advantage of the many
opportunities to participate in research projects under research faculty guidance. Students
participating in these projects gain extensive hands-on experience in a variety of research
environments including condensed matter physics, optics, high energy, nano-bio physics, and
computational physics. Undergraduate research assistants frequently receive financial support as
well as awards. The faculty of the Physics Department encourages students who qualify to
participate in the University Honors College. Scholarships are typically offered every year to new
students majoring in physics.
Students desiring certification for teaching at the secondary level must fulfill the
requirements for a second teaching field and must take certain education courses as prescribed in
the Education section of the catalog.
Majors enrolled in the fall semester for the past five years are given below.
Year
2001-2002
2002-2003
2003-2004
2004-2005
2005-2006
Majors
31
38
40
50
45
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2.2.b Graduate Programs
2.2.b.1 Objectives of the Programs
The Masters of Science in Physics. The objective of graduate work in physics is
to prepare the student for continued professional and scholarly development as a
physicist. The Physics M.S. Degree Program is designed to give the student advanced
training in the core areas of physics through formal courses, and also provide options for
specialization or participation in original research in a project directed by a faculty
member.
The Doctor of Philosophy in Physics and Applied Physics Program combines
the traditional elements of a science doctoral program with courses in specifically applied
topics and internship in a technological environment. It is designed to produce highly
trained professionals with a broad perspective of the subject which may prepare them
equally well for careers in academic or in government or industrial laboratories. Current
research in the department is predominantly in the areas of astrophysics and space
physics, condensed matter physics, materials science, high-energy physics and nano-bio
physics, and includes a wide range of theoretical work in solid state physics, astrophysics
and space physics, and experimentation in laser physics, optics, positron physics, solid
state and surface physics, nano-bio physics, and high-energy physics.
2.2.b.2 Degree Requirements: Master of Science
For admission to the Master of Science program in physics, the candidate must
satisfy the general admission requirements of the Graduate School. In addition, the
candidate must have satisfactorily completed at least 24 undergraduate hours of advanced
physics and supporting courses. A minimum of 30 hours is required for the Master of
Science degree, of which 24 hours, including a six hour thesis (minimum registration),
will be in physics, and six hours may be selected from physics, mathematics, chemistry,
geology, biology, or engineering as approved by the Graduate Advisor.
2.2.b.3 Degree Requirements: Doctor of Philosophy
To be admitted to the Doctor of Philosophy program, an applicant must satisfy the
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general admission requirements of the Graduate School.
2.2.b.4 General Rules
2.2.b.4.a Transfer of Credit
Credit may be transferred from other universities subject to the following restrictions:
Only courses with grades of B or better and approved by the Graduate School Committee
will be considered for transfer of credit and transfer of credit will be limited to 9 hours for
M.S. students from U.S. universities.
2.2.b.4.b Program of Work
All graduate students must submit a tentative program of work to the Graduate
Studies Subcommittee before the end of their first semester. Subsequent modifications to
the program should be discussed with the graduate advisor so that the student may be sure
of approval, and so that the Graduate School can be notified. A final program of work
must be submitted in the last semester.
2.2.b.4.c Grades
To graduate with any post-baccalaureate degree, a student must have a minimum
grade-point average of 3.0 with no more than one C in the list of physics courses given in
the student’s final program of work.
2.2.b.4.d Funding/Assistantships
The department currently has approximately 22 GTA slots. The department uses a
formula of ranking for awarding teaching assistantships, based on number of semesters as
GRA and as GTA, masters/doctoral level, and the student’s GPA. Graduate Research
Assistantships are also available depending on their advisor’s funding profile, and
students in their third year at UT Arlington are usually expected to be supported on
GRAs. According to University regulations, a student must be unconditionally admitted
or, if continuing, in good standing (not on academic probation) to receive either a
teaching or a research assistantship. In exceptional circumstances, but only once during
the student’s time at UT Arlington Physics, a student not in good standing may petition
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the Physics Department Graduate Studies Committee and the Graduate School for
continued support. Students receiving support from the Physics Department are expected
to complete a graduate degree program in Physics before they transfer to a program in
another department at the University.
2.2.b.4.e Changes of Program
All students with less than 30 hours of approved graduate level course work or
without a Master’s Degree in Physics will initially be registered as Masters students.
Upon completion of either of the above-noted requirements, students may seek the
approval of the Graduate School Studies Committee for admission to a Doctoral degree
program. Forms are available in the Physics Department office.
2.2.b.4.f Research
Masters or Doctoral students cannot choose a research supervisor or begin for
their thesis or dissertation before completing two semesters of study if enrolled in the
Masters program, or one semester if enrolled in the Doctoral program. Students must
submit a proposal of research (about one page) for review by the Graduate Studies
Committee prior to the commencement of research.
2.2.b.4.g Doctoral Programs-Diagnostic/Qualifying Examination
All students entering a doctoral program are required to pass a written
diagnostic/qualifying examination, during their first year in the doctoral program. This
examination consists of four parts: 1. Classical Mechanics, 2. Quantum Mechanics, 3.
Electromagnetic theory, and 4. Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics. The
examination is conducted twice yearly, usually in January and May. Classical and
Quantum Mechanics exams are conducted on one day, and the other areas examined the
subsequent day. Students failing any part of the examination at their first attempt will be
required to pass that part the next time the examination is offered to continue in the
doctoral program.
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2.2.b.4.h Doctoral Programs-Comprehensive Examination
The comprehensive examination is an oral presentation based on dissertation
research. The examination should be taken at least one year prior to the intended date of
dissertation defense so that the candidate has sufficient time to make up for any
deficiencies in their research or understanding of their chosen field. If a candidate fails
the exam, he/she must retake the exam within one semester and may anticipate that the
dissertation defense will be correspondingly delayed so that it will follow in no less than
one year’s time.
2.2.b.5 Degree Program Requirements
For each of the degree programs below, a list of requirements is given. These include: (a)
total number of graded (A,B,C, or P) credit hours, (b) number of credit hours and specific
courses in physics, (c) examinations, (d) thesis or dissertation, and (e) special requirements. All
courses in physics are referred to in Groups, which are listed on the next page.
2.2.b.5.a Masters of Science Degree in Physics: Thesis Option
(a) A minimum of 30 hours is required for this degree.
(b) 24 hours will be in physics. The 24 hours in physics include all Group 1 courses, a choice of
two courses from Group 2 and 3, and Thesis 5698. (The remaining 6 hours may be selected from
physics, mathematics, chemistry, geology, biology, or engineering as approved by the Graduate
Advisor).
(c) There are no entry exams, but there is an oral thesis defense.
(d) Students in the M.S. (thesis option) must complete a thesis, and enroll in Thesis 5698 in their
final semester.
2.2.b.5.b Masters of Science Degree in Physics: Non-Thesis Option
(a) A minimum of 36 hours is required for this degree.
(b) 24 hours will be in physics. The 24 hours in physics include all Group 1 courses, a choice of
five courses from Group 2 and 3. (The remaining 9 hours may be selected from physics,
mathematics, chemistry, geology, biology, or engineering as approved by the Graduate Advisor).
(c) In addition to course requirements, all candidates for the M.S. program - non-thesis option will
be required to pass an exam similar to the Doctoral Qualifying Exam described earlier.
2.2.b.5.c Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematical Sciences : Physics
For general requirements, consult the Ph.D. program in Mathematical Sciences in the Graduate
Catalogue.
(a) The Physics Department requires a minimum of 42 hours of courses, and 9 hours of
dissertation.
(b) Of the 42 course hours, 27 will be in physics and 15 will be in mathematics. The mathematics
courses are specified by the mathematics department. The 27 hours in physics include all Group 1
and Group 2 courses, and a choice of two courses from Group 3.
(c) Each student is required to pass the qualifying exam to enter the program, the comprehensive
exam to continue in the program, and the dissertation defense.
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(d) Students in the Ph.D. program must complete a dissertation. Students must enroll in nine hours
of dissertation in their final semester.
2.2.b.5.d Doctor of Philosophy in Physics and Applied Physics
For general requirements consult the Ph.D. program in the Physics section of the Graduate
Catalog.
(a) The Physics Department requires a minimum of 42 hours of courses, 9 hours of internship and
9 hours of dissertation.
(b) Of the 42 hours, 36 hours will be in physics. The 36 hours in physics include all Group 1 and 2
courses, and a choice of five courses from Group 3. (The remaining 6 hours may be selected from
physics, mathematics, chemistry, geology, or engineering as approved by the Graduate Advisor).
(c) Each student is required to pass the qualifying exam to enter the program, the comprehensive
exam to continue in the program, and the dissertation defense.
(d) Each student in the Ph.D. program must complete a dissertation. The student must enroll in
nine hours of dissertation credit for his/her final semester.
2.2.b.5.d.1 Courses
Group 1: Required for all graduate students
PHYS 5307 Quantum Mechanics I
PHYS 5309 Electromagnetic Theory I
PHYS 5310 Statistical Mechanics
PHYS 5311 Mathematical Methods in Physics II
Group 2: Required for all doctoral students
5308 Quantum Mechanics II
5312 Mathematical Methods in Physics II
5313 Electromagnetic Theory I, II
Group 3: Electives for students in all programs
5306 Classical Mechanics
5314 Advanced Optics
5315 Solid State I
5316 Solid State II
5317 Statistical Mechanics II
5319 Mathematical Methods in Physics III
5320 Quantum Mechanics III
5325 Introduction to Elementary Particle Physics I
5326 Introduction to Elementary Particle Physics
5328 Surface Physics
6301 Methods of Applied Physics I
6302 Methods of Applied Physics II
6303 Methods of Applied Physics III
3. DESCRIPTION OF THE PROGRAMS
3.1 Admission
Minimal standards for admission to undergraduate programs are those set by the University.
Unconditional admission into the master’s program requires a minimum combined GRE score of 1000
on the verbal plus quantitative sections (V+Q) and an undergraduate GPA of 3.0; exceptions are
12
considered and unconditional admission can occur when GRE scores are substantially higher [> 1250]
and the GPA is only somewhat lower than 3.0 [> 2.8] or vice versa, [e.g., GRE > 950 and GPA >3.6].
Admission into the Ph.D. program requires the same minimum combined V+Q score on the GRE and a
minimum combined score of 1200 on the quantitative and analytical sections (Q+A). The University
requires a minimum score of 550 on the TOEFL for unconditional admission of international students.
In order to be eligible for a teaching assistantship, the university and the department require all
international students to attain a minimum score of 45 on the Test of Spoken English..
3.2 Student Advising
General advising and preparation of degree plans for undergraduates are handled by Andrew
Brandt, Ali Koymen, and Roy Rubins in consultation with appropriate faculty members when required.
Graduate student advising is the responsibility of the Graduate Advisor, Qiming Zhang, until the student
selects a research supervisor and advising responsibility passes to the student’s supervising professor.
3.3 Transfer Students
Undergraduates who transfer into the university from other institutions of higher education are
subject to certain standards and criteria as set forth in the Undergraduate Catalog. Additionally, there are
legislative mandates on the acceptance of these students and their credits.
3.4 Faculty Availability
All faculty teaching courses are required to maintain at least three office hours per week, which
must be clearly listed in the course syllabus. Generally, faculty are available by appointment for students
whose scheduling does not allow for student-faculty contact during posted hours. The Department
maintains an extensive web site [www.uta.edu/physics] listing faculty members, research interests,
recent publications, course syllabi, email addresses, and other departmental information. Several faculty
members have their own web pages often describing in more detail their research and/or providing more
detailed information on their own courses, such as notes and drawings/diagrams used in their course(s)
and links/references to other sites or sources with information pertinent to their courses or research. All
faculty have telephones and computers with internet connections and e-mail connections such that
students may readily contact them. Syllabi for all courses are required to be distributed to enrolled
students and are also on file in the departmental office where students may examine them.
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3.5 Student Course Evaluations
The University requires that each class participate in student evaluations. The instructor must
utilize the University-developed Student Evaluation Sheet or develop his/her own evaluation sheet. Any
individually-developed evaluation must include the first eight questions on the University-developed
evaluation. The University evaluation sheets are computer processed. These results along with written
comments by students on the evaluation forms are provided to the Chair who retains them on file.
3.6 Undergraduate Programs
Specific course requirements in the various degrees offered under the auspices of the Department
of Physics follow in detail. Physics course requirements as well as general University requirements are
included.
3.3.a Requirements for a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physics
English
Literature
Liberal Arts Elective
Political Science
History
Fine Arts and Philosophy
Social/Cultural Studies
Electives
Other Electives
Computer Sciences
Natural Science other
other than Physics
Major
Minor
Total
Six hours of composition.
Three hours of English or foreign language literature or other approved
substitute.
Three hours above the freshman level of literature, or social and
cultural studies designated as taught in the College of Liberal Arts, or
fine arts or philosophy, or technical writing.
2311, 2312.
1311, 1312 (one of which may be replaced by 3363 or 3364).
Three hours from architecture, art, dance, music, philosophy, or
theatre arts.
Three hours of designated courses in social or cultural anthropology,
archaeology, social/political/cultural geography, economics, sociology,
classical studies, or linguistics.
Three hours outside engineering, mathematics, and the sciences.
Sufficient to give the total number of hours required for the degree,
six of which must be 3000/4000-level courses in science or
mathematics. Note: A second minor may be developed from this
group of electives.
Six hours from PHYS 2321, CSE 1306, 1310, 2310, or MATH 3345
CHEM 1301, 1302, 1284, and a minimum of six hours from
courses offered in the Departments of Biology and Geology.
45 hours of physics including 1443, 1444, 2311, 3183, 3313, 3321,
4117, 4185, 4315, 4319, 4324, and 4326; 13 hours from 2321,
2445, 3315, 3445, 3446, 4171, 4172, 4181, 4191, 4281, 4291,
4391, 4393, and 4325.
MATH 1325*, 1426, 2325, 2326, 3318, and a 4000 course.
129 hours, of which at least 36 must be 3000/4000 level, plus
exercise and sport activities (EXSA) or ROTC or marching band as
required.
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* If the student is not qualified to take MATH 1325 when he/she enters, he/she must complete the
prerequisites for the course. This may add three to six hours to the total required for the degree. No course
prerequisite for MATH 1325 will be credited toward graduation.
3.6.b Requirements for a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physics with Medical
School Preparation
A physics degree program designed to provide preparation for medical school appropriate
for students with an aptitude for mathematical science. This program offers the broad
background in fundamental science and strong problem solving ability of a physics degree as
well as specific biology and chemistry medical school requirements. A seminar course covering
medical applications of modern physics including radiology, magnetic resonance imaging,
positron emission tomography, and related topics is an integral part of this program. The
combination of skills developed in this program is designed to provide the intellectual foundation
necessary for excellence in the practice of medicine.
English
Literature
Liberal Arts Elective
Political Science
History
Fine Arts and Philosophy
Social/Cultural Studies
Electives
Other Electives
Biology
Chemistry
Mathematics
Physics
Six hours of composition.
Three hours of English or foreign language literature or approved
substitute.
Three hours above the freshman level of literature, or social and
cultural studies designated as taught in the College of Liberal Arts,
or fine arts or philosophy, or technical writing.
2311, 2312
1311, 1312 (one of which may be replaced by 3363 or 3364).
Three hours from architecture, art, dance, music, philosophy, or
theatre arts.
Three hours of designated courses in social or cultural anthropology,
archaeology, social/political/cultural geography, economics, sociology,
classical studies, or linguistics.
Three hours outside engineering, mathematics, and the sciences.
Sufficient to give the total number of hours required for the degree.
Core courses 1441 and 1442 or 3444; Advanced courses 3315 and
3442; One course from: 3301, 3333, or 4315; any other 3000/4000
level course.
General Chemistry with lab: 1301, 1302, and 1284. Organic
Chemistry with lab: 2321, 2181, 2322, 2182.
1325, 1426, 2325, 2326, and 3318.
36 hours including 1443, 1444, 2311, 3183, 3313, 3321, 4117,
4185, 4315, 4319, 4324, and 4326.
3.6.c Requirements for a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Physics
English
Literature
Liberal Arts Elective
Six hours of composition.
Three hours of English or foreign language literature or other
approved substitute.
Three hours above the freshman level of literature, or social and
cultural studies designated as taught in the College of Liberal Arts,
or fine arts or philosophy, or technical writing.
15
Foreign Language
Political Science
History
Mathematics
Fine Arts and Philosophy
Natural Science
other than Physics
Computer Science
Electives
Major
Minor
14 hours in a single foreign language or eight hours in a language,
plus six hours from one area cluster (see substitution list in
introductory information for the College of Science).
2311, 2312.
1311, 1312 (one of which may be replaced by 3363 or 3364).
Ten hours including 2326.
Three hours from architecture, art, dance, music, philosophy, or
theatre arts. Three hours of designated courses in social or cultural
anthropology, archaeology, social/political/cultural geography,
economics, sociology, classical studies, or linguistics.
12 hours from courses offered in the Departments of Biology,
Chemistry, or Geology
Three hours from PHYS 2321 or CSE 1301 or above.
Sufficient to give the total number of hours required for the degree.
PHYS 2311, 3183, 3313, 4117, plus 18 additional hours, of which
a minimum of seven must be 3000/4000-level courses.
18 hours, of which a minimum of six must be 3000/4000 level.
Total 125, of which at least 36 must be 3000/4000 level, plus
exercise and sport activities (EXSA), ROTC, or marching band as
required.
3.7 Graduate Programs
3.7.a Degrees Offered
The Department of Physics offers programs of work leading to both masters and doctoral
degrees, as described earlier.
3.7.b Graduate Student Advising
As indicated previously, entering students in the Master’s program are initially advised by
the Graduate Advisor until they have consulted with, selected, and been accepted as an advisee
by a particular faculty member. Some master’s students complete these arrangements prior to
entering the program and their supervising professor acts as the advisor, but the student should
still periodically confer with the Graduate Advisor. A student desiring entrance into the doctoral
program must have a faculty sponsor, a professor who has agreed to direct the student for at least
the first semester of graduate work, before the GSC will allow the individual into the program.
The Graduate Advisor confers with and advises such students along with the faculty sponsor.
Students in all programs must choose a supervising professor by the end of their first year of
enrollment, and the Graduate Advisor must be informed of the choice. Students in the doctoral
program may select a supervising professor other than the original sponsor with the approval of
the GSC and Graduate Advisor.
16
3.7.c Examinations
Masters Examination
A final program examination is required for all master's degree candidates. The thesis
program examination is an oral defense of the thesis, open to faculty, students and invited guests.
Non-thesis Program Examination - A final comprehensive oral exam is
required. The student invites at least three faculty (including the GA) to attend the exam.
The faculty will determine whether or not the student passes the examination.
Thesis Program Defense - Thesis candidates must hold an oral defense of the
work presented in the thesis, which has been judged acceptable by the supervisory
committee. The defense consists of an oral presentation of the thesis work followed by
an oral examination period in which the candidate answers questions from members of
the audience. The candidate first responds to questions relating to the thesis work from
the general audience, which typically includes faculty, other students and guests.
Following this period, the audience leaves, except for the student's faculty committee and
interested Physics faculty . The supervisory committee then questions the candidate.
After this questioning, the candidate is excused and the committee evaluates the
candidate's performance. All faculty members present may express their opinion of the
candidate's presentation and judgment of the overall acceptability of the candidate's
defense to the supervisory committee members; however, the committee is the ultimate
judge of the acceptability of the candidate's defense. The supervisory committee may
conclude that the candidate: (a) passed unconditionally, (b) passed conditionally upon
meeting specified additional requirements, (c) failed, with permission to retake the exam
after a period specified by the supervisory committee, or (d) failed with a
recommendation that the student be dismissed from the program.
Doctoral Examinations
Comprehensive-Dissertation Proposal Defense - The comprehensive exam in Physics is
the dissertation proposal defense. Each doctoral candidate must prepare a proposal describing the
dissertation research and defend the proposal to the supervisory committee. The proposal must
contain sufficient detail to allow the supervisory committee to evaluate the scientific merits,
feasibility of completion, and the candidate's understanding of and ability to apply proposed data
17
gathering techniques. Defense of the proposal must occur before the end of the candidate's fifth
long (non-summer) semester of admission to the doctoral program. The supervisory committee
conducts the comprehensive exam. The committee will conclude, after hearing and discussing
the comprehensive exam-dissertation proposal, that the candidate may, (a) proceed with the
research as proposed, (b) proceed with the research with modifications as defined by the
committee, or (c) be required to modify and re-defend the proposal. In the latter case, the
modified proposal must be successfully defended prior to the end of the following long semester.
In cases where a second defense is judged necessary, the supervisory committee must inform the
candidate of their objections to the original proposal so that the candidate is aware of the relevant
deficiencies and can prepare to re-defend. Failure to successfully defend a proposal on the
second attempt will result in dismissal from the Ph.D. program.
3.7.d Graduate Degree Requirements
All applicants for graduate study must satisfy the general admission requirements of the
University, the Department, and present an academic record indicating suitable preparation and
potential for advanced study in Physics.
3.7.d.1 Masters of Science Degree in Physics: Thesis Option
1. A minimum of 30 hours is required for this degree.
2. 24 hours will be in physics. The 24 hours in physics include all Group 1 courses, a choice of
two courses from Group 2 and 3, and Thesis 5698. (The remaining 6 hours may be selected from
physics, mathematics, chemistry, geology, biology, or engineering as approved by the Graduate
Advisor).
3. There are no entry exams, but there is an oral thesis defense.
4. Students in the M.S. (thesis option) must complete a thesis, and enroll in Thesis 5698 in their
final semester.
3.7.d.2 Masters of Science Degree in Physics: Non-Thesis Option
1. A minimum of 36 hours is required for this degree.
2. 24 hours will be in physics. The 24 hours in physics include all Group 1 courses, a choice of
five courses from Group 2 and 3. (The remaining 9 hours may be selected from physics,
mathematics, chemistry, geology, biology, or engineering as approved by the Graduate Advisor).
3.7.d.3 Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematical Sciences : Physics
1. The Physics Department requires a minimum of 39 hours of courses, plus 3 hours of internship
(if no internship is available the number of hours required is 42), and 9 hours of dissertation.
2. Of the 42 course hours, 27 will be in physics and 15 will be in mathematics.
The mathematics courses are specified by the mathematics department. the 27 hours in physics
include all Group 1 and Group 2 courses, and a choice of two courses from Group 3.
18
3. Students in the Ph.D. program must complete a dissertation. Students must enroll in nine hours
of dissertation in their final semester.
4. Students in the Ph.D. program must complete a dissertation. Students must enroll in nine hours
of dissertation in their final semester.
3.7.d.4 Doctor of Philosophy in Physics and Applied Physics
1. The Physics Department requires a minimum of 39 hours of courses, plus 3 hours of internship
(if no internship is available the number of hours required is 42), and 9 hours of dissertation.
2. Of the 42 hours, 36 hours will be in physics. The 36 hours in physics include all Group 1 and 2
courses, and a choice of five courses from Group 3. (The remaining 6 hours may be selected from
physics, mathematics, chemistry, geology, or engineering as approved by the Graduate Advisor).
3. Each student is required to pass the qualifying exam to enter the program, the comprehensive
exam to continue in the program, and the dissertation defense.
4. Students in the Ph.D. program must complete a dissertation. Students must enroll in nine hours
of dissertation in their final semester.
3.7.e Degrees Granted Since 1990
Degree
Student
Title Thesis/Dissertation
Professor
Graduation
Date
Doctoral
Doctoral
Mehl, David
Investigation of the Surface Sensitivity of PositronAnnihilation-Induced Auger-Electron Spectroscopy
Weiss
August
1990
Doctoral
Hira, Ajit
Many Body Perturbation Theory Applied to Hydrogen
Interaction with Lithium Clusters
Ray
December
1990
Doctoral
Larson, Don
Optical Probing Investigations Using Novel Reference Grating
Black
May
1990
Doctoral
Green, Martin
Sharma
August
1991
Doctoral
Haghighi, Hossein
Deposition of Diamond Films and Comparative
Characterization by RAMAN, XPS and PAS.
A Positron Study of Electronic Structure of Yittrium Barium
Copper Oxide
West
December
1991
Doctoral
Doctoral
Marroum, Renata
Tello, Lucio
Kaiser
Black
May
December
1991
1992
Doctoral
Lee, Keun-Ho
Weiss
December
1992
Doctoral
Datta, Radhika
Surface Electronic Structure of Pd Alloyed on Cu
Ultrasonic Transducers Characterization by Means of DoubleExposure Holographic Interferometry
Study of Sub-monolayer Films of Au/Cu(100) and Pd/Cu(100)
Using positron Annihilation Induced Auger Electron
Spectroscopy
Coupled Electron Photon Transport-A Multidimensional
Discrete Ordinates Study
Ray
August
1993
Doctoral
Hyer, Reginald
A Study of Defects in Diamond Films Grown by Chemical
Vapor Deposition
Sharma
December
1993
Doctoral
Doctoral
Chaplin, Rick
Altekar, Sita
Diana
Ray
December
December
1994
1995
Doctoral
Zhou, Haiqing
Weiss
May
1996
Doctoral
Sosebee, Mark
The Scattering of Positrons by Helium
Parallel Programming in Electron Transport: A CRAY YMP
Study
Auger Line Shape Measurements using High Resolution
Positron Annihilation Induced Auger Electron Spectroscopy.
A Search for Supersymmetric Particles with the D-zero
Detector
White
May
1996
Doctoral
Kim, Jae Hong
Study of the Growth of Adsorbed Gas Layers and Ultra-Thin
Films Deposited on Si, Ge and GaAs Surfaces.
Weiss
December
1997
19
Doctoral
Mittal, Rajesh
Finite Temperature Simulations of the Proton Transport
Mechanism in a Hydrogen-Bonded Chain.
Howard
August
1998
Doctoral
Lee, Yeon-Suk
Koymen
August
1998
Doctoral
Schailey, Ronald
Ray
August
1999
Doctoral
Zhang, Lei
Study of the Surface Magnetic Microstructure of Permalloy
Thin Films and 3% Si-Fe Sheets using Scanning Electron
Microscopy with Polarization Analysis
An Ab Initio Cluster Study of the Chemisorption of Atomic
Cesium and Hydrogen on the Reconstructed Surfaces of
Gallium Rich Gallium Arsenide (100)
Optical Properties of Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystalline
Materials
Sharma
December
2000
Doctoral
Livesay, Eric
A Positron study of the Colossal Magnetoresistive Material
La(0.7) Sr(0.3) MnO(3).
West
May
2000
Doctoral
Doctoral
Altuncevahir, Baki
Anilturk, Onder
Koymen
Koymen
December
December
2003
2003
Doctoral
Ha, Byeongchul
Sharma
December
2003
Doctoral
Xie, Shuping
Magnetic Properties of CoNi/Gd Multilayers
Spin Polarized Auger Electron Spectroscopy (SPACES): An
Element Specific Local Magnetization Probe of Magnetic
Materials
Photoelectron Spectroscopy Measurements of the Electronic
Structure of C60 and other Carbon Based Material Thin Films
Positron Annihilation Induced Auger Electron Spectroscopy of
Inner Shell Transitions Using the Time-of-Flight Technique
Weiss
December
2003
Doctoral
Song, Yan
Search for Supersymmetric Top Quark in Top Quark Decay
Channel Based on Do Run IB Data
De
December
2003
Doctoral
Park, Kyung Shin
Thesis for 1989: Solid Particle Erosion of Discontinuous SIC
Reinforced Aluminum Alloys (NO DISSERTATION LISTED)
Black
January
2003
Doctoral
Wu, Xueyuan
Density Functional Theory Applied to d- and f-Electron
Systems
Ray
May
2003
Doctoral
Huda, Muhammad
Ray
December
2004
Doctoral
Strang, Michael
Brandt
August
2005
Doctoral
Demirtas, Sezen
A Realistic Density Functional Study of the Role of 5f
Electrons in Atomic and Molecular Adsorptions on Actinide
Surfaces
First Observation of Dijet Events with an Antiproton Tag at
s**(1/2)=1.96 TeV using the DO Forward Protron Detector
Magnetic Properties of Rare Earths (Gd, Tb)/Transition Metal
(Fe, Co, Ni) Nanolayers
Koymen
August
2005
Doctoral
Orr, David
Feynman-Kac Path Integral Calculation of the Ground-State
Energies of Atoms
Fry
June
2005
Doctoral
Song, Kie-Moon
An Ab Initio Study of Alkali Metal Absorption on Gallium
Arsenide (110)Surface
Ray
June
2005
Doctoral
O'Brien, Kevin
West
June
2005
Doctoral
Jung, Enseung
The Enhancement of Fermi Surface Images in Positron ACAR
Spectra
Auger line Shape Study of the Ag(100) and Ge(100) Surfaces
Utilizing Positron Annihilation Induced Auger Electron
Spectroscopy.
Masters
Weiss
June
2005
Masters
Masters
Dark, Charles
Lee, Keun-Ho
Sharma
Weiss
May
May
1990
1990
Masters
Masters
Tripathi, Jaya
Eytan, Osnat
Ray
Lippel
August
August
1991
1991
Masters
Masters
Masters
Masters
Kanal, Kalpana
Lee, Sang-Kwon
Ashley, Ross
Chopra, Anil
Deposition and Characterization of Diamond Films.
The Relative Intensity of Positron Annihilation-Induced Auger
Electron Emission From Fe, Cu, Pd, and Au
A Class of Potentials for Quark Confinement
Theoretical Modeling of Scanning Tunneling Microscopy for
Au Alloyed on Cu
The Existence and Stability of Potassium Clusters.
Positron annihilation Study of Ethane Physisorbed on Grafoil.
Non-Thesis
Neutron Activation Analysis and Positron Annihilation
Measurements of Bone Samples
Ray
Sharma
Sharma
August
August
August
August
1991
1991
1991
1992
Masters
Tyan, Lee-Wen
Can positron-annihilation-induced auger electron spectroscopy
Weiss
August
1992
20
Masters
Powell, Karlton
Masters
Janik, George
Masters
Masters
Niedzwiecki,
Thomas
Cudmore, Donald
Masters
Kellogg, Tad
Masters
(PAES) be used to clarify the choice of starting point in
position surface state models?
Spatial Phase Multiplexing of Holograms in Photorefractive
Crystals
Six MeV Electron Transmission Through A Lead Intraocular
Shield
Non-Thesis
Black
December
1992
Sharma
August
1993
August
1993
Production, Analysis, and Characterization of Amorphous
Magnetic Materials Using X-Ray Diffraction, Auger Electron
Spectroscopy and the Magneto-optic Kerr Effect.
One Dimensional Electron Transport: Application to Electron
Backscattering
Koymen
January
1993
Ray
January
1993
Wallis, Kendra
A Positron Annihilation Study of the Electronic Structure and
Fermi Surface of Yttrium
West
May
1993
Masters
Xia, Yu
De
August
1994
Masters
Sohn, Alexander
Rubins
August
1994
Masters
Schmanke, Kyle
The Characterization of Photomultiplier Tubes Using a New
Automated Test Facility
Satellite Structure in the EPR Spectrum of the OneDimensional Ising Ferromagnet FeTAC
Monte Carlo Modeling of Diagnostic X-Ray Scatter
Murry
May
1994
Masters
Kim, Jae Hong
Weiss
May
1994
Masters
Mittal, Rajesh
Howard
August
1995
Masters
Wang, Young-Ren
Study of the Growth of Adsorbed Gas Layers and Ultra-thin
Films of Metals and Semiconductors Deposited on Si, Ge, and
GaAs Surface Using Positron Annihilation Induced Auger
Electron Spectroscopy (PAES)
Modeling of Orientational Defects and Proton Transport in a
Hydrogen Bonded Chain
Non-Thesis
August
1995
Masters
Nagarathnam,
Sundari
Optical Power Changes with Equatorial Stretching of
Deformable Lenses
Black
December
1995
Masters
Kuttler, Kerry
Positron Surface States on a Copper (100) Surface with Cesium
Adsorbate
Fry
December
1995
Masters
Wheeler, Stephen
Weiss
December
1995
Masters
Issar, Anita
Comparison of Theoretical and Experimental Positron
Annihilation Induced Auger Electron Intensities from Ge(100)
and Ge(111) Surfaces
Study of defects in TiN/SiO2 films and interfaces using
Positron Beam Spectroscopy
Sharma
February
1995
Masters
Sharma, Ritu
Modeling of Ionic Defects and Proton Transport in a Hydrogen
Bonded Chain
Howard
August
1996
Masters
Masters
Shin, Sue-Mee
Labarge, Aaron
Monte Carlo Study of Fractal Structure in Jets
Formation of Polaronic States in a Finite Two-Dimensional
Lattice
Stephens
Weiss
August
December
1996
1996
Masters
Kaiser, Richard
De
May
1996
Masters
Venkataraman,
Ranjani
Weiss
December
1997
Masters
DeLaRosa, Diana
The construction and testing of a laser test stand for scintillator
research and development
Study of the Energy Distribution of Secondary Electrons and
Redistributed Primary Particles From A Ge(100) Surface
Utilizing Incident Beams of Electrons and Positrons
Integrating Computer Technology into University Optics
Black
May
1997
Masters
Masters
Morse, Michael
Iyer, Sandhya
Howard
Koymen
August
August
1998
1999
Masters
Sharma, Shruti
Proton Motion in Asymmetric Potential Wells
Positron Defect Spectroscopy of Hydrogen-Defect Complexes
in Copper
Non-Thesis
West
December
1999
21
Masters
Jiang, Neng
Design and Modeling of a Positron Annihilation Induced
Auger Electron Spectrometer with Time-Of-Flight Energy
Analyzer
First Principle Studies of Ge Addimer on Si/Ge Surfaces
Solar Neutrino Oscillations: Development of a Web Based
Research Tool
Fiber Coupled Confocal Microscope for in vivo Corneal
Scanning
Positron annihilation induced Auger Electron Spectroscopy
from the GaAS (100) and Si (111) surfaces and positronelectron impact ionization cross-sections from Si (111)
An AB Initio Study of Alkali-C60 Complexes
Intercalibration of Photomultiplier Tube Test Benches through
Precision Testing of their Internal Photodiodes
Simulation Studies of a new Digitial Hadronic Caloremeter
Using Gas Election Multiplier
A Many Body Perturbation Theoretic Study of Chemisorption
of Atomic Oxygen and Aluminum on the Ga-Rich GaAs (100)
(2X1) and B (4X2) Surfaces
Compartive First-Principles Study of the Adsorption of Carbon
Atoms on Transition Metal Surfaces
Weiss
May
1999
Masters
Masters
Cai, Huimin
Thebeau, Chris
Zhang
Gelb
August
December
2000
2000
Masters
Masters
Angelopoulos,
Robert
Starnes, Shannon
Black
December
2000
Weiss
May
2002
Masters
Masters
Frick, Nathan
Spurlock, Barry
Ray
De
May
August
2002
2003
Masters
Habib, Shahnoor
Yu
August
2003
Masters
Mayo, Michael
Ray
August
2003
Masters
Hu, Tu
Zhang
August
2003
Masters
Noble, Matthew
Generation of Torsinal Tube Waves in Stellar Convention Zone
Musielak
May
2003
Masters
Yarbrough, John
Michael
Das, Rupam
The Study of the Electronic Structure of ZrZnz
West
May
2003
Quantum Gravity
Musielak
May
2003
Masters
Nadesalingham,
Manori
Weiss
May
2003
Masters
Sudduth, Mark
Study of Positron Trapping at Quantum-Dot Like Su Particles
on the Surface of Fe Using Positron Annihilation Induced
Auger Electron Spectroscopy
Second-Harmonic Generation Ionically Self-Assembled
Organic Thin Films
Black
May
2003
Masters
Sundaramoorthy,
Rajalakshmi
Auger-Auger Coincidence Spectroscopy
Weiss
May
2003
Master
Kaushik, Venkatesh
Yu
August
2004
Masters
Pradan, Prachi
Performances of Novel Digital Hadron Calorimeter Using Gas
Electron Multiplier (GEM) and the Energy flow Algorithm
Development
From Nanoclusters to Nanotubes: An Ab Initio Study
Ray
December
2004
Masters
Jaafari, Fajer
White
December
2004
Masters
Mandapaka, Anant
Study of Low Energy Supersymmetery and Gluino Gaugino
Channels
Non-Thesis
Musielak
December
2004
Masters
Ahmed, Towfiq
Musielak
May
2004
Masters
Chu, Kung-Te
Transverse Wave Generation of Thin Magnetic Flux Tube of
Late Type Stars
The Effects of Rapid Thermal Processing on NdFeB Based
Ribbons
Liu
May
2004
Masters
Wang, Xiao
A First-Principle Study on the Enchancement of Beryllium
Doping in Gallium Nitride
Zhang
August
2005
Master
Wu, Dangxin
Zhang
August
2005
Master
Masters
Dholabhai, Pratik
Ganapathy, Sridevi
Lalgudi
An LSDA+U Study pn Bulk CuO: Electonic Structures and
Native Defects
On the Behavior of the 5f Electrons
On a Class of ABCS
Ray
Ray
August
August
2005
2005
Masters
Srinivasan, Aravind
Ray
December
2005
Masters
Song, Kie-Moon
On the Existence and Satbility of Carbon-Based Silicon
Fullerenes-A Density Functional Theoretic Study
A Study of Possible Metallization at Alkali Metal/GaAs(110)
Interfaces
Black
June
2005
Masters
22
Masters
Alleto, John
Electron Momentum Space Densities in Magnetic Metals
Kaiser
June
2005
Masters
Wu, Lin
Black
June
2005
Masters
Masters
Chandler, Donna
Lin, PoChuan
Derivation of a Wave Distribution Produced by a Probe With
Small Tip Size, nd Experimental Determination of the Size
Non-Thesis
A Study of Alkali Atom Induced Metallization of Silicon
Surface
Fry
Ray
June
June
2005
2005
Masters
Perkins, Jill
Probing Color-Singlet Exchange in pp Collisions at /s = 630
GeV and 1800 GeV
Draper
June
2005
Master
Hossu, Maria
Koymen
May
2005
Masters
Li, Daren
Liu
May
2006
Masters
Routh Swati
Thermal Behavior and Magnetic Properties of CoNi/Gd
Multilayers
Preparation and Characterization of Hard Magnetic
Nanoparticles
Conditions for Wave Propagation Along Solar Magnetic Flux
Tubes
Musielak
May
2006
Masters
Roy, Dipanjan
Derivation of Generalized Lorenz Systems to Study the onset
of Chaos in High Dimension
Musielak
May
2006
3.7.f Graduate Student Statistics
The numbers of graduate teaching assistants (GTAs) and graduate research assistants (GRAs) by
year are given in the table immediately following, while the monthly stipends for GTAs and GRAs by
program are reflected in the lower table.
Number of GTAs and GRAs
2000-01
GTA
GRA
MS
PhD
MS
PhD
2001-2002
Fall
Spring
Summer
Fall
Spring
Summer
Fall
Spring
Summer
8
3
0
6
10
3
1
5
6
1
5
7
9
4
3
6
11
4
4
5
7
3
7
5
14
4
3
7
9
1
5
9
6
0
5
8
2003-2004
GTA
GRA
MS
PhD
MS
PhD
2002-2003
11
4
4
8
12
6
4
4
2004-2005
10
4
5
6
16
7
2
5
23
11
9
2
4
2005-2006
8
7
3
7
15
4
0
11
16
4
0
12
13
0
0
11
Average Monthly GTA and GRA Stipends
Fall
GTA
GRA
GTA
GRA
2000-01
Spring
Summer
Fall
2001-02
Spring
Summer
Fall
2002-03
Spring
Summer
MS
PhD
MS
PhD
$1,344
$1,350
$0
$1,446
$1,313
$1,433
$1,400
$1,436
$1,350
$1,450
$1,333
$1,519
$1,375
$1,386
$1,539
$1,585
$1,366
$1,391
$1,455
$1,584
$1,337
$1,455
$1,343
$1,488
$1,466
$1,494
$1,414
$1,573
$1,443
$1,446
$1,479
$1,478
$1,473
$0
$1,449
$1,536
MS
PhD
MS
PhD
Fall
$1,516
$1,514
$1,558
$1,620
Spring
$1,528
$1,531
$1,558
$1,677
Summer
$1.536
$1,518
$1,558
$1,637
Fall
$1,611
$1,721
$1,625
$1,746
Spring
$1,610
$1,720
$1,643
$1,723
Summer
$1,614
$1,729
$1,622
$1,769
Fall
$1,602
$1,704
$0
$1,745
Spring
$1,600
$1,731
$0
$1,745
Summer
$1,627
$0
$0
$1,750
Our GTAs are primarily assigned to supervise laboratories for freshman and sophomore
Physics courses. We attempt to keep a cadre of experienced GTAs in each of our lower division
courses to serve partially as mentors to newer GTAs. This practice tends to facilitate a smoother
transition for GTAs into their new assignments. Our aim in following the stated practice is to
provide well organized and smoothly presented laboratory enhancing the lab experience for
students. Other GTA assignments may include lab set up, supervision, etc. for upper division
labs, and, if the GTA has the requisite experience and credentials, teaching lower division lecture
courses. Labs and courses taught by GTAs are required to be evaluated by students and the
associate chair and Graduate Advisor examines such evaluations to determine student opinions of
their student instructors. When real or potential problems are indicated, the GTA involved is
counseled on his/her performance by the GA or associate chair.
4.0
THE SUPPORT STAFF
Ms. Amy Osborn, Administrative Services Officer, is the departmental administrator and has
extensive, wide-ranging responsibilities for all aspects of the administration of the Department. Her
responsibilities are too far-reaching to list entirely here, but suffice to say that she oversees the
departmental budget, interacts with faculty, staff and students both within the Physics department and in
other departments on numerous regular and special assignments. She explicitly supervises an office staff
consisting of Ms. Margie Jackymack, Senior Office Assistant, and Mrs. Frances Smith, Accounting
Technician, as well as work study students. Ms. Jackymack works the main counter of the office,
24
interacts with students on enrollment, grade and many other issues; she also works scheduling, travel
requests, and other issues with the faculty and other instructors. The Accounting Technician, Mrs.
Frances Smith handles the myriad departmental accounting responsibilities, including the payments for
the UT Arlington-issued credit card.
Mr. Doug Coyne, Electronics Technician, is responsible for handling many aspects of our
undergraduate laboratories, including setting up the labs, preparing and monitoring the GTAs
responsible for the various labs, etc. He also helps with many other ancillary tasks, such as helping
faculty, staff and students with their computer problems. Mr. Victor Reece is the departmental computer
specialist; he is responsible for maintaining and advancing the departmental website, and certain
ancillary websites, such as for conferences convened by Physics faculty. He also has responsibilities for
repairing and purchasing personal computers, and assists with the functioning of the Computational
Physics Cluster. Mr. Jimmy Hanhart is our Machine Shop Supervisor/Scientific Instrument Maker. He
is responsible for maintaining the Physics Machine Shop at a state-of-the-art level, and for ensuring that
the many fabrications of scientific instruments requested by faculty and staff in Physics and other
departments on campus are completed accurately and on time. He supervises the Scientific Instrument
Maker I position in these machine shop tasks. Mr. Levent Gurdemir is our Astronomy Laboratory
Supervisor. He is responsible for maintaining and upgrading the introductory astronomy labs and
associated equipment and software, for teaching several of the laboratory sections directly and
supervising Laboratory Assistants (LAs) such that these LAs satisfactorily prepare and grade the
astronomy students in their laboratory assignments, for initiatives such as setting up observational
telescopes, for development of certain planetarium shows, and so forth.
The Planetarium Staff is led by Mr. Bob Bonadurer, Director of the Planetarium at UT Arlington.
Bob is responsible for setting the course for the Planetarium and arranging for the myriad of Planetarium
activities, including near-daily Planetarium show field trips for K-12 students, public shows, private
Planetarium associated functions, astronomy camps, providing occasional special shows for the UT
Arlington introductory astronomy students, and so forth. Mr. Joe Eakin is the Planetarium Production
coordinator, and is responsible for developing and presenting shows and many other Planetarium tasks
as the needs arise. Ms. Patsy Patten is the Special Programs Coordinator. She answers the main phone
line to the Planetarium, schedules special events, and performs other Planetarium tasks as the needs
arise.
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These individual staff members are outstanding at their jobs and are absolutely critical to the
success and camaraderie of the department. Recently, Ms. Osborn received a richly-deserved
Outstanding Employee of the Year award in January 2006, while Mr. Coyne received such an award in
January 2007.
5.0
THE PROGRAM’S FACULTY
5.1 Faculty Profile
The table below reflects the number of faculty since 1999.
Tenured
Tenure Track
Non-Tenure
Track
Total
2001
13
3
3.2
2002
13
3.7
3.9
2003
12
4
5.1
2004
13
3
3.4
2005
14
4
4.4
19.2
20.6
21.1
19.4
22.4
The average salary by rank is indicated in the following table:
Professor
Associate
Assistant
2001
$73,815
$58,357
$58,328
2002
$76,188
$59,940
$64,415
2003
$76,263
$52,750
$64,415
2004
$79,548
$69,903
$61,705
2005
$85,911
$74,409
$63,643
5.2 Faculty Backgrounds
The Department of Physics has 19 tenured or tenure track faculty, one fulltime astronomy
lecturer and three to four part-time lecturers, depending on the needs of the department. Abbreviated
information about the faculty and recent teaching activities are summarized below.
Faculty
Position
Education
Research Area
Black, Truman
Professor
Brandt, Andrew
Associate Professor
Electron paramagnetic
resonance; ultrasonics; laser
optics
Experimental high-energy
physics
Chen, Wei
Assistant Professor
B.S., University of Houston,
1959; M.A., Rice University,
1962; Ph.D., 1964
B.S., College of William and
Mary, 1985; M.S., University
of California at Los Angeles,
1988; Ph.D., 1992.
B.S., Jilin University, China,
1985; M.S., Central South
University, China, 1988;
Ph.D., Peking University,
1992
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Nano-bio physics
Appointment
Date
1965
1999
2006
Cuntz, Manfred
Associate Professor
De, Kaushik
Professor
Fazleev, Nail
Assistant Professor
Fry, John
Professor
James Horwitz
Professor and Chair
Koymen, Ali
Professor
Liu, Ping
Associate Professor
Musielak, Zdzlislaw
Professor
Ray, Asok
Professor
Rubins, Roy
Professor
Sharma, Suresh
Professor
Su, Yi-Jiun
Assistant Professor
Weiss, Alex
Professor
White, Andrew
Professor
B.S., University of
Heidelberg, Germany, 1980;
M.S., 1985; Ph.D., 1988.
B.A., M.A., City University of
New York, 1981; Sc.M.,
Brown University, 1982;
Ph.D., 1988.
B.S., Kazan State University,
1970; M.S., 1971; Ph.D.,
1978.
B.S., Baylor University, 1961;
M.S., 1962; Ph.D., University
of California at Riverside,
1966.
B.A., University of California
at San Diego, 1970; M.S.,
1972; Ph.D., 1976.
B.S., University of Hacettepe,
Turkey, 1977; M.S.,
University of Michigan, 1980;
Ph.D., 1984.
B.S., Central-South Institute
of Mining and Metallurgy,
China, 1982; M.S., 1987;
Ph.D., University of
Amsterdam, 1994.
B.S., A. Mickiewicz
University, 1975; B.S., 1976;
Ph.D., University of Gdansk,
1980.
B.S., Calcutta University,
1967; B.Tech., 1969; M.S.,
Oklahoma State University,
1973; M.S., Texas Tech
University, 1975; Ph.D.,
1977.
B.A., St. Catherine’s College,
Oxford University, 1957;
Ph.D., 1961.
B.S., Agra University, India,
1965; M.S., Meerut
University, India, 1967;
Ph.D., Brandeis University,
1976.
B.Sc., National Chung-Hsing
University, Taiwan, 1991;
M.Sc., National Central
University, Taiwan, 1993;
University of Alabama in
Huntsville, 1998.
B.S., City College of New
York, 1976; Ph.D., Brandeis
University, 1983.
B.Sc., University of
Southampton, 1969; Ph.D.,
Westfield College, University
of London, 1972.
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Theoretical astrophysics;
observational astronomy;
astrobiology.
Experimental high-energy
physics
2000
Theoretical condensed matter
physics.
1994
Condensed matter theory;
positron physics; surface
physics.
1971
Space plasma physics.
2004
Surface physics; surface
magnetism; positron physics.
1990
Condensed matter physics;
magnetic materials;
nanomaterials.
2002
Theoretical astrophysics;
cosmology; chaos and
nonlinear physics.
1999
Condensed matter theory;
clusters; electron transport
theory.
1984
Magnetic resonance;
microwave absorption studies.
1969
Positron physics; high
pressure physics; surface
science; nano-materials.
1977
Space plasma physics.
2005
Positron physics; surface
physics.
1984
Experimental high-energy
physics.
1991
1993
Yu, Jaehoon
Associate Professor
Zhang, Qiming
Associate Professor
B.S., Korea University, 1983;
M.A., 1985; M.A., State
University of New York, New
York, 1992; Ph.D., 1993.
B.S., Sichuan University,
1982; M.S., Beijing
University of Science and
Technology, 1984; Ph.D.,
International School for
Advanced Studies, 1989.
Experimental high-energy
physics.
2001
Theoretical condensed matter.
1996
5.3 Faculty Research and Scholarly Activities
The research quality, diversity, depth, productivity and overall scholarly activity in the
Physics department is indicated in the faculty vitae presented in Appendix 2.
The many recent accomplishments of our faculty include:

Winning one of only three multimillion dollar “Tier 2” grants in the entire US, for
establishing a supercomputing grid farm linking several thousands of processors to
support analysis of the High-Energy Physics ATLAS experiment at CERN to
commence in late 2007. UT Arlington also has the Principal Investigator role for one
of the detectors for the ATLAS experiment, which will involve colliding protons at 7
times the energy ever achieved in accelerator experiments before, with the promise of
major fundamental physics discoveries.

Winning a multi-million dollar Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative
(MURI) award to conduct an investigation on the “Synthesis and Processing of
Nanocomposite Permanent Magnets--Approaches from the Bottom” This award
supports research on nanoprocessed magnets with applications in the defense
industry, medicine and other areas.

Theoretical and simulation investigations which have predicted for the first time
stable primarily silicon-based fullerenes, or buckyballs. Artwork illustrating the
discovery was recently featured on the cover of the Journal of Nanoscience and
Nanotechnology.

Recently winning a highly-coveted and prestigious five-year NSF CAREER grant to
investigate the formation of auroral energetic electron bursts accelerated in kinetic
Alfvén waves
Most of the Physics faculty have research programs well-funded by such granting
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agencies as NASA, National Science Foundation, Department of Energy, the Office of Naval
Research, DARPA, Welch Foundation, and ARP. The work of most of our faculty is also
regularly nationally and internationally recognized by invitations to them to organize, chair or
contribute to national or international symposia, conferences or meetings. Frequently our faculty
serve as panel members of granting agencies such as NSF, Department of Energy, and NASA.
Some have been invited as keynote speakers at national meetings or to present lectures in
Distinguished Lecture Series at various universities. The University has several awards which
recognize outstanding performance in teaching and/or research. Most of our faculty serve as
frequent reviewers for archival refereed journals in their fields of expertise.
The table below indicates the level of grant funding over the past five years:
External Grant Funds Generated (per year)
FY00
$1,104,722
6.0
FY01
$1,870,017
FY02
$1,284,447
FY03
$1,767,432
FY04
$3,198,634
FY05
$2,515,421
FY06
$3,675,954
DESCRIPTION OF FACILITIES
6.1 Teaching Facilities
The Department of Physics regularly offers over 38 lecture sections and 57 laboratory sections in
the Fall semester, and 34 lecture sections and 59 laboratory sections in the Spring semester. Summer
session offerings vary, and are dependent on additional funding provided by the University.
The lecture halls, rooms and laboratories used for teaching physics courses are primarily located
in Science Hall. Within Science Hall, Physics has access to the following lecture halls:
Lecture Halls/Rooms
100 Science Hall
101 Science Hall
103 Science Hall
105 Science Hall
125 Science Hall
129 Science Hall
205 Science Hall
315 Science Hall
Capacity
198
199
101
50
65
72
40
35
In addition, there are 4 rooms dedicated to laboratory instruction for various classes in physics.
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For our introductory astronomy courses, we have also begun hosting some lectures in the
new Planetarium in the Chemistry and Physics Building (CPB), In these lectures, we use some of the
spectacular Digistar-3 full dome productions to entertain and educate our introductory astronomy
students on various fascinating aspects of modern astronomy such as black holes. We also use the
Planetarium on certain occasions for Physics colloquia.
6.2 Research Facilities
The Physics department has laboratories in both Science Hall and the Chemistry and Physics
Building for support of experimental research in a range of research investigations.
These include labs
for support of nanomagnetics research in Science Hall, with requisite ultra sensitive magnetometer
facilities such as SQUID and PPMS, as well as an X-Ray facilities and Diffraction System for analysis of
solid state structures. In CPB, various labs such instruments as the High Energy Physics Detector
Factory, Positron Spectrometers, a Scanning Tunneling Electron Microscope, UHV Photoemission
Spectometers, Raman Spectrometer with High-Pressure Diamond Anvil Cell, Thin Film Growth and
Characterization facility, Scanning Electron Microscopes, diffractometers and so forth. During the
2006-2007 year, a new nano-bio laboratory will be equipped with additional instrumentation appropriate
to that area.
Computer simulation research is performed on a variety of platforms, including individual PCs,
work stations, facilities of the University’s High Performance Computing Center and national
supercomputing centers, such as the Pittsburgh Supercomputing Center. A 16-node Beowulf cluster for
a Computational Physics Cluster was installed in Science Hall in Fall 2005, and is currently used for
various simulations in condensed materials and space plasma investigations. This facility is anticipated
to grow in capability and range of service with significant installations of numerous additional
processors over the next few years.
Some observational astronomy research is conducted at the University of Texas MacDonald
Observatory in West Texas. In addition, the new Planetarium is involved with some of our faculty in
Education and Public Outreach activities to develop shows to illustrate research themes and discoveries.
For example, we have a current EPO grant from NASA to develop a show on possible habitable planets
in the cosmos and the possibility of extraterrestrial life.
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7.0
PROGRAM BUDGET
Budget, Department of Physics, 2000-2006
Faculty Salaries
GTA
Faculty SalariesPart-time
Classified
Wages
M&O
Travel
Total
8.0
2000-01
$1,058,526
$98,000
$23,052
2001-02
$1,022,952
$98,000
$23,052
2002-03
$1,091,777
$103,000
$23,052
2003-04
$1,179,074
$124,565
$23,052
2004-05
$1,180,295
$300,143
$23,052
2005-06
$1,413,870
$300,143
$33,552
2006-07
$1,565,158
$300,143
$24,852
$200,591
$2,853
$20,216
$5,500
$213,752
$7,124
$20,216
$5,500
$222,405
$7,124
$50,216
$5,500
$222,054
$7,124
$50,216
$5,500
$235,077
$7,124
$68,165
$5,500
$258,860
$7,124
$68,165
$5,500
$270,550
$7,124
$68,165
$5,500
1,408,738
1,390,596
$1,503,074
$1,611,585
$1,819,356
$2,087,214
$2,241,492
EVALUATION OF THE STATE OF THE PROGRAM
In terms of research activity, funding profile, recognition and visibility, the Physics department is
performing at an outstanding and ever-stronger level. As previously indicated and suggested by the
accompanying vita in Appendix 4, the department has internationally-recognized research activities in
several areas, and is diversifying into new research areas, including space physics and nano-bio physics.
Also adding to the luster of the Physics department is the outstanding Planetarium at UT Arlington,
which in many ways has become the “jewel” or “centerpiece” of the UT Arlington campus.
The teaching evaluations for the range of courses taught, from elementary introductory courses
and service courses to advanced graduate classes, indicate that most of the faculty are teaching their
courses in a manner which appears to be satisfactory and appreciated by the enrolled students.
Perhaps the principal concern regarding the state of the Physics department is the relatively low
number of undergraduate Physics majors. The number of student credit hours generated in the lower
division service courses, including astronomy courses, algebra-based and calculus-based introductory
physics courses, etc., is quite substantial. However, at the present time, there are about 45 declared
undergraduate Physics majors. The number of Physics graduates in any given year is typically around 56 , and it is not uncommon for the department to have only one or two graduates for commencement in a
given semester. Physics majors from UT Arlington do very well in terms of admission and success in
graduate school and in seeking direct, rewarding employment, whether locally in the DFW metroplex
area, elsewhere in the state of Texas, or in the nation. Physics at UT Arlington is therefore both an
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intellectually and financially rewarding discipline to study. We must do a better job of enticing science
and technology oriented students into majoring in Physics at UT Arlington. One of the initiatives to
promote this is discussed in the next section.
As far as the graduate program is concerned, we typically have about 35 graduate students at any
given time, with about 15 in the doctoral program. In Fall 2005, a relatively large class of 10 new
graduate students was admitted, with all of the students have assistantships. In Fall 2006, 7 new graduate
students were admitted to the program. Recent trends indicate typically 2 M.S. degrees and about 1-2
Ph.Ds in Physics per year. Given the funding and outstanding research conducted at UT Arlington
Physics, the Physics Ph. D. numbers can and should be improved. One aspect which limits our ability to
attract high-quality students suitable for doctoral status is the requirement that students pay tuition.
Recently, arrangements have been made to largely offer tuition remission to students who are doctoral
graduate research assistants. However, the UT Arlington administration is expecting the faculty PIs
supporting these students to have their grants pay these tuition costs in future years for such students.
We do not know precisely what effect this phased-in arrangement may have in terms of enticing faculty
to support GRAs.
Another indication that the department is taking the serious steps forward in terms of research
accomplishment and stature would be to have one or more high-profile endowed chaired professors.
The Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry during the past year finally filled its Welch Foundation
Chair with an outstanding, highly-prominent scientist with multimillion dollar/year grant funding and a
large number of supervised graduate students. The addition of this individual to that department has
greatly improved the stature of the department and has no doubt proved inspirational and synergistic for
the entire department’s search activities. In terms of research positioning, the Department of Physics is
situated similarly to the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department, and we believe that the Physics
department would similarly greatly benefit by the addition of one or more endowed chair professorships.
9.0
GOALS AND FUTURE CHALLENGES
The general goals of the department are to improve its national research stature toward what may
loosely be referred to as “Tier 1” stature. One of the principal metrics for a comprehensive university to
be designated as a Tier 1 institution is that the external expenditures must exceed $100 million dollars
annually. At present, the Physics department’s annual external funding expenditures are in the range $2-
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3 Million/year. As recently described in February 2006 in a strategic presentation to the Dean, Provost
and President, our departmental target over the next decade in this funding metric is $10 Million/year of
federal and state research funding expenditures. The department believes this would tend to suggest a
Physics department funding profile commensurate with a Tier 1 university, even if the university itself
has not attained that $100 Million/year level nominally signifying Tier 1 status for the institution as a
whole. Attaining the $10 Million/year funding level would naturally be expected to be linked and
correlated with corresponding increases in refereed publications, citations, general recognition for
scholarly accomplishments, and plausibly proportionate increases in Ph. D. production.
In order to achieve this $10 Million/year research expenditure goal by say 2016, the department
seeks to increase the numbers and stature of the faculty. As stated in the strategic planning presentation,
we wish to increase the number of tenure-track and tenured Physics faculty(currently 19) by seven in five
years, 2011, and to be in the low thirties in ten years, 2016. These faculty numbers would be comparable
to those of Physics programs to which the department aspires to approach within the decade in quality
and stature. For example, one of UT Arlington Physics’ “aspirational programs” is that of the Physics
department at North Carolina State University, which currently has 37 tenured or tenure-track faculty.
One of the thematic research areas for accelerated development over the next several years is the nanobio physics thrust.
Another initiative toward improving our research funding profile is to increase our group of
research faculty. Research faculty are here regarded as non-tenure track, soft money researchers who
may in principle be interested in direct involvement with student supervision and certain other aspects of
regular faculty activities, and also in which having the faculty stature(even without tenure opportunities)
may be helpful in attracting or retaining certain, valuable individuals. During the 2005-2006 academic
year, the Physics faculty developed policies for having research faculty in the department, what their
roles would be, how they would be hired, and so forth. We currently have one assistant research
professor. Part of the idea behind incorporating research faculty is that they be individuals who would
become principal investigators and acquire their own funding. If UT Arlington Physics can develop a
nurturing, attractive environment for such researchers, it would clearly be highly beneficial for the
department’s funding profile.
In terms of taking the next step toward this Tier 1 stature, we believe that a critical ingredient is
to establish at least one endowed chair professorship in Physics. Such an individual would have
33
important, synergistic effects on the department, not only in terms of his/her own research operation, but
also in terms of inspiring and pointing directions and opportunities for other existing faculty, as well as
helping to attract high-quality candidates for future open positions. Such an individual would also help
to attract high-quality graduate student applicants to the program.
Another related strategy that we hope to employ is to participate in the Research Superiority
Talent Acquisition component of the Texas Governor’s Emerging Technology Fund (ETF). In this
initiative, we would solicit groups of talented faculty from outside Texas who would pursue research
which would stimulate new industries for Texas. A plausible group of faculty suitable for Physics
participation might include a senior established leader with a particularly strong record in patents and
interaction with industry. During 2005-2006, we interacted with and considered two candidate groups
for proposing for this initiative, and although neither of those particular groups were considered to fit the
ETF talent acquisition initiative enough to go forward with an ETF proposal, we hope to continue
seeking a suitable candidate ETF group to propose for this initiative.
Improved facilities for research are a necessary component of further development of the
research productivity and funding levels. Among the targeted facilities that we believe would be very
beneficial for Physics and other departments on campus is a new, high-resolution Transmission Electron
Microscope (TEM). Such facilities, which require appropriate staffing and maintenance, can be quite
costly---a suitable TEM is likely to cost ~$1 Million.
As implied from the previous section, the department seeks to significantly increase the numbers
of undergraduate physics majors and annual number of Physics graduating seniors. The principal
challenge is to recruit capable science and technology oriented students at the high school and early
freshman and sophomore levels into Physics at UT Arlington. One project which we have initiated is to
prepare a Physics “recruitment video”. Working with Audio-Visual Services, we have scripted short
segments of faculty, staff, students and alumni in labs and other appropriate venues in order to portray a
vibrant and appealing experience and set of opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students
at UT Arlington Physics. This completed video or “infomercial” is intended to be approximately 10
minutes long, with upbeat music background and other appealing features. The finished product is
intended to be placed as a streaming video on the Physics website (http://www.uta.edu/physics) for
access by student and other visitors to our website from anywhere in the world. We will also make
copies on DVDs and files for transport on laptops and flash memory devices such that it can be shown in
34
such settings as special invited presentations to Arlington high school physics classes, to Physics
teachers and counselors, our own introductory calculus-based(technical) physics courses, and other
interested audiences. We also intend to work with the Planetarium staff to prepare a brief 1-minute
version for showing during the “preview” segments of many of the public Planetarium shows, ideally
incorporating full dome enhancing effects using Digistar-3 script items.
The department also seeks to attract more high-quality graduate students, particularly for the
doctoral program. The above video being developed, in stream form on the Physics website, is intended
to help attract graduate student recruits as well. Another initiative we are pursuing to assist with
developing “pipelines” to attract graduate students from particular countries or institutions is to send
existing graduate students on “recruiting visits” to their home countries and/or undergraduate
institutions. For example, we recently supported one of our excellent graduate students from the
University of Bogotá, Columbia to return to that University in August 2006 and present a series of talks
designed to encourage students from University of Bogotá and other universities in Columbia to consider
applying for graduate physics at UT Arlington. We are actively trying to promote similar increased
linkages with universities in Korea, Taiwan, Turkey, Russia, India, Sri Lanka, and potentially Brazil.
Finally, the Planetarium should continue to develop into one of the unique attractions of UT
Arlington and the City of Arlington generally. Some of the directions in which we see the Planetarium
activities progressing include greater involvement in the introductory astronomy courses, development
of a solar system walk, more education and public outreach shows, supported by funding from agencies
such as NASA and NSF, and increased linkage with other departments and colleges at UT Arlington in
terms of possible shows and functions.
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36