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Physics

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    1. Home/
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    4. Physics

    Big questions. Real impact.

    As an undergraduate or graduate student in the Department of Physics, you'll participate in physics research early, building skills that span theory, computation, observation and experiment. At UIdaho Physics, you will join research teams pushing frontiers from quantum information and nuclear theory to black holes, gravitational waves, supernovae and the origins of elements. Our faculty also probe Titan with NASA's Dragonfly mission, model impact cratering and exoplanets, engineer UV-luminescent alloys and nanomaterials, and unveil the physics of proteins with micro- and optofluidics.

    Academic programs

    Our department delivers a strong foundation in theoretical and experimental physics, complemented by practical research experience. We offer highly personalized physics degree programs to prepare you for a career as scientist, educator or engineer.

    Undergraduate degrees:

    • B.A. in physics
    • B.S. in physics, general physics emphasis
    • B.S. in physics, applied physics emphasis

    Graduate degrees:

    • M.S. in physics
    • Ph.D. in physics

    Minors:

    • Minor in physics

    Explore our programs

    Academics

    • Bioinformatics Computational Biology
    • Biological Sciences
    • Chemistry
    • Earth and Spatial Sciences
    • Mathematics and Statistical Science
    • Physics

    Meet our people

    Our faculty are dedicated educators and researchers, bringing a wealth of expertise in various physics disciplines. Our goal is to prepare you to be a physics professional.

    Faculty

    Gwen Barnes

    Research Associate Professor

    Jason Barnes

    Department Chair and Professor

    Leah Bergman

    Professor

    Zachariah Etienne

    Professor

    Yale Fan

    Assistant Professor

    Matthew M. Hedman

    Professor

    Christopher Jones

    Instructor Faculty

    You Qiang

    Professor

    Francesca Sammarruca

    Professor

    David Vartanyan

    Assistant Professor

    Andreas E. Vasdekis

    Associate Professor

    F. Marty Ytreberg

    Professor
    Staff

    Jessica DeWitt

    Department Manager

    Eric Foard

    Director of Laboratory Education

    Reynaldo Caisley

    Scientific Instrument Maker

    Hands-on learning opportunities

    The Department of Physics offers numerous opportunities for you to gain direct experience and engage with the physics community:

    • Research projects: Participate in faculty-led research across various physics fields.
    • Teaching assistantships: Receive a tuition waiver and monthly stipend as a graduate teaching assistant.
    • Workshops and seminars: Attend events featuring guest speakers and industry professionals.

    Learn more about the College of Science’s support services

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    Academics

    • Bioinformatics Computational Biology
    • Biological Sciences
    • Chemistry
    • Earth and Spatial Sciences
    • Mathematics and Statistical Science
    • Physics

    Ready to apply?

    Start your application
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    Contact us

    Department of Physics

    Email: physics@uidaho.edu
    Phone: 208-885-6380

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