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Physics

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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 Sciences
  • 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 Sciences
  • 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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