Radiations
Radiations is a weekly electronic newsletter published by the Physics and Astronomy Department of Carleton College. The deadline for materials to be included in Radiations is 7:30 AM Monday of the week you would like the information to appear. Contact tfields@carleton.edu if you want to be added or removed from this mailing list.
Posts tagged with “General” (All posts)
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Events This Week
Events happening this week in the physics and astronomy department.
Physics Table May 13th
May 13, 2013If you would like to have lunch with Physics students, faculty, and staff, during which you might discuss some physics, we have an app for that!
May 13th (Tuesday) Noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room is when and where you should be. Meet on 3rd Olin at 11:50 to enjoy a companionable walk over or just meet us there.
Facilities Master Plan Discussion
May 10, 2013Carleton is currently engaged in creating a Facilities Master Plan for the campus. The Science Planning group is charged with determining what investments in facilities are necessary for the College to maintain its historic leadership in undergraduate physical and biological science education. Getting input from current students is a crucial part of that process. To that end, student representatives from the DCC as well as SDAs will be facilitating a student conversation about classrooms, labs, research spaces, and social/study spaces in the department to find out what about those spaces works well, and what doesn't.
Physics Table
April 29, 2013April 30th (Tuesday) Noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Join physics students, faculty and staff for lunch at the LDC. Meet us on 3rd Olin at 11:50 for the short walk over or meet us there.
The Jerry and Jean Mohrig Lecture in Chemistry
April 21, 2013Thursday, April 25, 2013
7:30 p.m.
Olin 149The Carleton Chemistry Department is very pleased to welcome Prof. Robert Grubbs from the California Institute of Technology as our 2013 Mohrig Lecturer in Chemistry. Prof. Grubbs won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 2005 and is a leader in “green chemistry” and development of new catalysts and processes that are both useful and environmentally friendly, and he will deliver a lecture on this topic on Thursday, April 25 (see abstract below). We hope you will be able to attend! Refreshments will be served after the lecture.
“Green Chemistry and Catalysis”
St. Olaf Physics Professor to speak at Carleton
April 10, 2013Professor Bob Jacobel, professor of Physics at St. Olaf College, will be on campus Friday, April 26th to speak in the Geology department. His presentation is titled "Water Beneath the Ice--Investigations of an Antarctic Subglacial Lake". He will speak at 4:30 pm in Mudd 73. Everyone is welcome!
Visiting Professor Candidate discussion
April 9, 2013It's time to continue on with the process of selecting a new Visiting Professor! Hopefully you made it to some of the candidate presentations--now come let us know what you think. Please join us Thursday, April 11th at noon in Olin 101 to talk about the three candidates over lunch. Here's your chance to help shape the department. Take this opportunity to voice your opinion on YOUR Physics future.
Dinner at Chapati with PHYS 123 Speaker Paul Grossi
April 7, 2013Physics students: you are invited to attend a dinner with Physics 123 speaker Paul Grossi ('89) this coming Friday, May 12th at Chapati. Enjoy an evening of friendly conversation which may or may not include some physics talk, but which will definitely include a very tasty dinner, sponsored by (read: paid for by) the Physics and Astronomy department. RSVP to sign up with Trenne (tfields) via email by 2 PM Thursday. Sorry, but we have to limit dinner to the first 6 students who respond. Meet in the department office common area and be ready to leave by 5:29 PM Friday. Those of you interested in teaching may especially be interested in speaking with Paul.
Visiting Professor Candidate Presentations
March 15, 2013Series of three lectures presented by candidates for the Visiting Professor position in Physics and Astronomy.
These lectures will take the place of the regularly scheduled Physics Table lunch discussions during the first two
weeks of the term. STUDENTS: come take part in shaping your future! Give your feedback on the presenters and
help select one of YOUR new professors! (Have lunch on us!)
The final one will take place April 9th in Olin 04 at noon.
Sendoff Celebration for Professor Dwight Luhman
March 11, 2013Tuesday, March 12th, 4 pm in the Olin 2nd floor lounge
Physics Table
January 17, 2013March 5 (Tuesday) Noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Join physics students, faculty and staff for lunch at the LDC. Meet us on 3rd Olin at 11:50 for the short walk over or meet us there.
Physics Table
January 17, 2013February 26 (Tuesday) Noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Join physics students, faculty and staff for lunch at the LDC. Meet us on 3rd Olin at 11:50 for the short walk over or meet us there.
Physics Table
January 17, 2013February 19 (Tuesday) Noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Join physics students, faculty and staff for lunch at the LDC. Meet us on 3rd Olin at 11:50 for the short walk over or meet us there.
Physics Table
January 17, 2013February 12 (Tuesday) Noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Join physics students, faculty and staff for lunch at the LDC. Meet us on 3rd Olin at 11:50 for the short walk over or meet us there.
Physics Table
January 17, 2013February 5 (Tuesday) Noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Join physics students, faculty and staff for lunch at the LDC. Meet us on 3rd Olin at 11:50 for the short walk over or meet us there.
Physics Table
January 17, 2013January 29 (Tuesday) Noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Join physics students, faculty and staff for lunch at the LDC. Meet us on 3rd Olin at 11:50 for the short walk over or meet us there.
Women in Physics (WIPs) Dinner
January 15, 2013Saturday, March 2nd at 6:00PM. Evans Hall, 1st floor lounge.
SDA Office Hours
January 14, 2013January 24 (Thursday) noon-1pm, Olin 2nd floor lounge
As deadlines for summer REUs, fellowships, and grants are approaching, your physics Student Departmental Advisers (SDAs) Aurora Roth and Frazier Mork are holding office hours. There will be pizza and juice! (hooray for free food!).
Bring any questions you have about applying for REUs (Research Experience for Undergraduates, generally aimed at juniors) or other summer opportunities. There are many opportunities for freshman and sophomores to get involved in research and we can help you navigate that process too! We are happy to review your draft proposals or applications for summer research.You can also talk to us about the physics major in general and any other questions you might have.
Keep in mind that being a physics student means that you can be successful at research beyond what you might think of "traditional physics research", from climate change to engineering to education. The skills you are gaining in physics classes can be applied to almost every science and professors want to work with students who have these skills. Now is the time to explore and get involved in whatever you're interested in!
Feel free to email rotha and morkf if you have any questions!Physics Table
January 14, 2013January 22 (Tuesday) Noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Join physics students, faculty and staff for lunch at the LDC. Meet us on 3rd Olin at 11:50 for the short walk over or meet us there.
Physics Table
January 4, 2013January 15 (Tuesday) Noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Join physics students, faculty and staff for lunch at the LDC. Meet us on 3rd Olin at 11:50 for the short walk over or meet us there.
Physics Table
January 4, 2013January 8 (Tuesday) Noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Join physics students, faculty and staff for lunch at the LDC. Meet us on 3rd Olin at 11:50 for the short walk over or meet us there.
Summer Research at Carleton and REUs Meeting
January 4, 2013January 11 (Friday) 3:30-4:30pm, Olin 02
Ever wondered how students get a summer research position at Carleton? Want to know more about REUs? This meeting is for you. Come learn everything you need to know about summer research.
Physics Table
November 5, 2012November 13 (Tuesday) Noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Join physics students, faculty and staff for lunch at the LDC. Meet us on 3rd Olin at 11:50 for the short walk over or meet us there.
Physics Table
October 29, 2012November 6 (Tuesday) Noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Join physics students, faculty and staff for lunch at the LDC. Meet us on 3rd Olin at 11:50 for the short walk over or meet us there.
Clare Booth Luce Research Scholars Poster Session
October 22, 2012October 22 (Monday) 4:30pm, Olin Lobby
Join us in celebrating the research accomplishments of the 2012 Clare Boothe Luce Research Scholars. Visit with the Scholars to enjoy their posters and learn about their research projects. Refreshments will be served.
Physics Table
October 22, 2012October 23 (Tuesday) Noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Join physics students, faculty and staff for lunch at the LDC. Meet us on 3rd Olin at 11:50 for the short walk over or meet us there.
SDA Office Hours
October 22, 2012October 25 (Thursday) noon-1pm, Olin 2nd floor lounge
Our SDAs Aurora Roth and Frazier Mork will be in the lounge to answer questions about physics classes and the department. Pizza will be provided for lunch.
Student Research Symposium & Celebration
October 22, 2012October 25 (Thursday) 4:30-6:00pm, WCC - Larson Meeting Room
Students from all departments present their research. Everyone is invited to attend this celebration of student scholarship.
Washington University Engineering Representative
October 1, 2012October 2 (Tuesday) noon-1pm, Olin 202
The Washington University Engineering Representative will be at Carleton to visit with students interested in doing the 3/2 engineering program at Wash U. Lunch will be provided. Please RSVP to Mary Drew if you planning attending this informational meeting.
Physics Table
October 1, 2012October 2 (Tuesday) Noon-1pm, LDC (no room reserved)
Join physics students, faculty and staff for lunch at the LDC. Meet us on 3rd Olin at 11:50 for the short walk over or meet us there.
Student Worker Training Meeting
October 1, 2012October 3 (Wednesday) 3:15-4:20pm, Olin 04
All student workers in the Physics & Astronomy Department are required to attend this MANDATORY training meeting. If for some reason you can not attend you must check out a video of the meeting from Mary in Olin 331.
Physics Table
September 17, 2012September 25 (Tuesday) Noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Join physics students, faculty and staff for lunch at the LDC. Meet us on 3rd Olin at 11:50 for the short walk over or meet us there.
Fall Physics & Astronomy Picnic
September 7, 2012September 28 (Friday) 5-8pm, Hill of Oaks
Join Physics & Astronomy students, faculty and staff for a fun outdoor event.
First Physics Table of the Year!
September 7, 2012September 11 (Tuesday) Noon-1pm, Olin 202
All physics students are invited to have pizza lunch with faculty and staff on second Olin. Come get to know your new professor and classmates and renew old friendships.
Physics Table
September 7, 2012September 18 (Tuesday) Noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Join physics students, faculty and staff for lunch at the LDC. Meet us on 3rd Olin at 11:50 for the short walk over or meet us there.
Senior Meeting
September 7, 2012September 21 (Friday) 3:30-4:30pm, Olin 02
All senior physics majors should plan to attend this important meeting to discuss your senior year and preparing for life after Carleton. Any juniors thinking of doing comps this year should also plan to attend.
Physics Table
May 28, 2012May 29 (Tuesday) Noon-1pm, LDC Class or '51 Dining Room
Join physics students, faculty and staff for lunch at the LDC. Meet us on 3rd Olin at 11:50 for the short walk over or meet us there.
Physics Table
May 7, 2012May 15 (Tuesday) Noon-1pm, LDC Class or '51 Dining Room
Join physics students, faculty and staff for lunch at the LDC. Meet us on 3rd Olin at 11:50 for the short walk over or meet us there.
Physics Table
May 7, 2012May 8 (Tuesday) noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Join Physics & Astronomy students, faculty, and staff for lunch at the LDC. Meet us in the Olin 3rd floor lounge for the short walk over or meet us there.
Mother's Day
May 7, 2012May 13 (Sunday) All Day, Everywhere
Be sure to call your mother and tell her that you love her. She misses you and wants to hear from you.
"My mother was the most beautiful woman I ever saw. All I am I owe to my mother. I attribute all my success in life to the moral, intellectual and physical education I received from her." ~George Washington
"Grown don't mean nothing to a mother. A child is a child. They get bigger, older, but grown? What's that suppose to mean? In my heart it don't mean a thing." ~Toni Morrison, Beloved, 1987
DCC Meeting
April 23, 2012April 24 (Tuesday) noon-1pm, Olin 202
There will be a meeting of the Physics & Astronomy Department Curriculum Committee. Lunch will be provided.
Physics Table
April 23, 2012May 1 (Tuesday) noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Join Physics & Astronomy students, faculty, and staff for lunch at the LDC. Meet us in the Olin 3rd floor lounge for the short walk over or meet us there.
New Major Celebration
April 23, 2012April 24 (Tuesday) 4-5pm, 2nd floor lounge
All newly declared majors are invited to a celebration with Physics & Astronomy faculty and staff. Root beer floats will be served.
Physics Table with PHYS 123 speaker Ali Tasson
March 26, 2012March 30 (Friday) noon-1pm, LDC Shearer Dining Room
Join physics students, faculty, staff and PHYS 123 speaker Ali Tasson for lunch at the LDC. Meet on 3rd Olin at 11:50am for the short walk over or meet us there.
CBL Career Panel Discussion
February 24, 2012March 6 (Tuesday) noon-1pm, Olin 02
Please join us for a panel discussion with three alums talking about their career paths since Carleton and their experiences as women in technical fields:
- Silva Theiss (Class of '87, CS/Physics), Senior Research Scientist at 3M
- Jennifer Bell (Class of '88, Physics), Project Executive, IBM
- Jennifer Ginder (Class of '97, CS), Technical Support, IBM
Lunch will be provided.
Physics Table
February 20, 2012February 28 (Tuesday) noon-1pm, LDC Shearer Dining Room Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty and staff at the LDC at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin or you can meet us there.
Physics Table
February 20, 2012February 21 (Tuesday) noon-1pm, LDC Shearer Dining Room Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty and staff at the LDC at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin or you can meet us there.
SDA Office Hours
February 6, 2012February 16 (Thursday) noon-1pm, Olin 2nd floor lounge
Ross and Min Yao will be hosting SDA hours in 2nd lounge on Thursday. They will be answering questions about classes, playing phyctionary and will have food.
Physics Table
February 6, 2012February 7 (Tuesday) noon-1pm, LDC Shearer Dining Room Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty and staff at the LDC at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin or you can meet us there.
Physics Table
January 9, 2012January 10 (Tuesday) noon-1pm, LDC Shearer Dining Room Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty and staff at the LDC at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin or you can meet us there.
Please note the change in day and room from fall term!
Physics Table
November 7, 2011November 17 (Thursday) noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty and staff at the LDC at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin or you can meet us there.
Physics Table
October 31, 2011November 3 (Thursday) noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty and staff at the LDC at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin or you can meet us there.
Nostalgia for the Light
October 24, 2011October 25 (Tuesday) 7:30pm, Weitz Cinema
Renowned Chilean filmmaker Patrizio Guzman contemplates the stars with astronomers in the Atacama Desert observatory even while meditating on time, and his own country's troubled political history.
All Science and Math Poster Session
October 24, 2011October 26 (Wednesday) 3:45-5:15pm, Weitz Center 236
Every fall Carleton hosts this celebration of student scholarship in the sciences and math. Students presenting posters have carried out research at Carleton and other institutions. Everyone is invited to attend and talk with the students about their work.
Asking Why? The Nature of Curiosity
October 24, 2011October 28 (Friday) 10:50AM, Skinner Chapel
Jeff Lieberman is the star of Discovery Channel’s Time Warp, where cool science is s-l-o-w-e-d down to better understand movement as an art form. Lieberman is also a physicist, roboticist, sculptor, musician and photographer. He explores the connections between the arts, sciences, education, passion, creativity, and the potential future of human consciousness, using technology to see beyond the limits of our normal human perception. He composes music in the duo gloobic, and has performed in Carnegie Hall. He shows technological sculptures around the world, to bring people an emotional and mystical connection with science and the universe. Having finished four degrees at MIT in physics, math, mechanical engineering, media arts and sciences, he is exploring the applications of technology to evolving and shifting human consciousness. Lieberman presents a fantastical view of the merging of art and science as he helps perceive the world in a whole new way.
Seeing is Knowing: A Dialogue
October 3, 2011October 4 (Tuesday) Noon-1pm, Gould Library Athenaeum
Trevor Paglen, astronomer Joel Weisberg, and curator Laurel Bradley will explore the topic of "Seeing is Knowing" from various disciplinary perspectives, veering into personal and political terrain. Audience participation encouraged!
Physics Table
October 3, 2011October 13 (Thursday) noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty and staff at the LDC at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin or you can meet us there.
Student Worker Meeting
October 3, 2011October 5 (Wednesday) 3:15-4:20pm, Olin 04
All student workers in the Physics & Astronomy Department are required to attend this MANDATORY training meeting. If for some reason you can not attend you must check out a video of the meeting from Mary in Olin 331.
Physics Table
September 26, 2011October 6 (Thursday) noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty and staff at the LDC at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin or you can meet us there.
DCC Meeting
September 26, 2011September 27 (Tuesday) noon-1:00pm, Olin 202
There will be a meeting of the Physics & Astronomy Department Curriculum Committee discuss proposed changes to a few physics courses. The committee will also be finishing up work on scenarios for discussion at the Student Worker Meeting. Lunch will be provided.
Physics Table
September 19, 2011September 29 (Thursday) noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty and staff at the LDC at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin or you can meet us there.
Physics & Astronomy Fall Picnic
September 19, 2011September 30 (Friday) 5:00-8:00pm, Hill of Oaks
Join Physics & Astronomy students, faculty and staff at the Hill of Oaks for the annual picnic. Please be sure to RSVP at https://apps.carleton.edu/curricular/physics/events/picnic_rsvp/ by Thursday Sept 22.
Physics Table
September 12, 2011September 22 (Thursday) noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty and staff at the LDC at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin or you can meet us there.
Physics Table
September 12, 2011September 15 (Thursday) noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty and staff at the LDC at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin or you can meet us there.
Seeing is Knowing: The Universe
September 12, 2011September 16 (Friday) 7:00-9:00pm, Weitz Center for Creativity
Seeing is Knowing: The Universe, an exhibition presenting contemporary art, historical books, and photographs, charts and scientific visualizations, considers the powerful role of vision and the visual in exploring celestial realms. Artists and scientists (Joel, Cindy and John) offer fresh perspectives on astronomy, and give new life to poetic celestial metaphors. More information can be found here.
2011 Spring Picnic
May 9, 2011May 13 (Friday) 4:30-8:00pm, Hill of Oaks
The annual spring picnic will take place this Friday. Thanks to Xinxin, Shao Min and Michael K for volunteering to help.
Physics Table with PHYS 123 Speaker Robert Hallock
April 8, 2011April 22 (Friday) noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Join Physics students, faculty, staff and PHYS 123 speaker Bob Hallock for lunch at the LDC. Meet on third Olin for the sort walk over or meet us there.
Physics Table with PHYS 123 Speaker Emily Baker
April 4, 2011April 15 (Friday) noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Join Physics students, faculty, staff and PHYS 123 speaker Emily Baker for lunch at the LDC. Meet on third Olin for the sort walk over or meet us there.
Presentation on Approaches to Sustainable Infrastructure in Northfield and Abroad
January 20, 2010January 26 (Tuesday) 7:45pm, Gould Library Athenaeum
The Carleton College Chapter of Engineers Without Borders will be giving a presentation to share the details of their efforts in Northfield and Ccapacmachay, a rural community situated high in the Peruvian Andes. For more information about Engineers Without Borders, please visit their website https://apps.carleton.edu/student/orgs/ewb/.
Physics Table
January 15, 2010January 21 (Thursday) noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Join Physics & Astronomy students, faculty and staff for lunch at the LDC. Special topic for discussion this week will be faculty research as a followup to the recent series of talks on faculty research.
Chemistry Department Journal Club
January 15, 2010January 21 (Thursday) noon-1pm, Mudd 171
Anyone interested in David Kim-Shapiro's talk (see description below) is invited to join the chemists for Journal Club. They'll get together over lunch to discuss Daniel Kim-Shapiro's work. The paper to read can be found here.
Daniel Kim-Shapiro Seminar
January 15, 2010February 22 (Friday) 3:30-4:30pm, Olin 04
Daniel Kim-Shapiro, CC physics '84, who is currently working at Wake Forest University will give the Chemistry Department seminar "Nitric Oxide Bioavailability in Health, Disease and Therapeutics". All are invited to attend.
Faculty Research Presentation
January 5, 2010January 6 (Wednesday) 3:10-4:20pm, Olin 04
At the request of the Department Curriculum Committee, Physics & Astronomy faculty will be giving a series of talks on there current research interests and projects. The first talks in the series will be given by Dwight, Melissa and Nelson. All physics interested students are encouraged to attend. Refreshments will be served!
SDA Office Hour
November 2, 2009November 3 (Tuesday) noon-1:00pm, Olin 2nd floor lounge
Come to ask any questions about the physics department, physics classes, or anything relating to the major. This is a fantastic opportunity to get your questions answered, hang out with awesome upperclassmen, and eat pizza. Office hours will be during common time on Tuesday in the 2nd Olin lounge.
Physics Table
September 14, 2009September 17 (Thursday) 12:00-1:00pm, LDC 115
Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty, and staff at the LDC at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin for the short walk over, or you can meet us there.
Junior Meeting
May 18, 2009May 20 (Wednesday) 3:10-4:20 pm, Olin 04
The department would like to meet with all juniors to discuss "next year and beyond". Items on the agenda are comps and beginning to think about careers, grad school, etc. Refreshments will be served.
Welcome For New Sophomore Majors
April 20, 2009April 21 (Tuesday) 3:00-4:00pm Olin 2nd floor lounge
The department would like to welcome all the new majors with a root beer float party in the second floor lounge. All 29 of the new sophomore majors are invited!
Physics Table
April 20, 2009April 24 (Friday) 12:00-1:00PM, '51 Dining Room
Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty, staff, and PHYS123 speaker Katie Devine. Meet on 3rd Olin at 11:55pm for the short walk over or meet us there. All are welcome.
Physics Table
April 20, 2009May 1 (Friday) 12:00-1:00PM, '51 Dining Room
Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty, staff, and PHYS123 speaker Mary Hibbs-Brenner. Meet on 3rd Olin at 11:55pm for the short walk over or meet us there. All are welcome.
Phyisics Table
April 13, 2009April 17 (Friday) 12:00-1:00PM, LDC Shearer Dining Room
Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty, staff, and PHYS123 speaker Michael Fleming. Meet on 3rd Olinn at 11:55pm for the short walk over or meet us there. All are welcome.
Job Candidate Student Input Meeting
January 19, 2009January 29 (Thursday) 5:00-6:00pm, Olin 04
All students are invited to this meeting to share their impressions of our four job candidates with Physics & Astronomy faculty.
Physics Table
January 12, 2009January 22 (Thursday) noon-1pm, LDC Class of '51 Dining Room
Join Physics & Astronomy students, faculty and staff for lunch at the LDC. Meet us on third Olin for at 11:55 for the short walk over or meet us there.
SDAs and Ice Cream
October 27, 2008October 30 (Thursday) 8:00-9:00pm Olin Second Floor Lounge
Registration time again?!? Not sure what to take next year? Majors and those thinking of taking more physics classes should not miss this SDA meeting. Come and find out more about the major, learn about the classes and meet more physics people.
SDA Pizza Lunch
October 27, 2008Friday, October 31, 11:30-12:30 pm, Second Olin Lounge
Registration time again?!? Not sure what to take next year? Majors and those thinking of taking more physics classes should not miss this SDA lunch meeting. Come and find out more about the major, learn about the classes and meet more physics people.
Sophomore Meeting
October 20, 2008October 21 (Tuesday) noon-1pm, Olin 02
All sophomores are invited to this meeting to help answer questions about the major and the department. Information about summer REUs and working in the department will also be discussed.
Physics Table
October 20, 2008October 23 (Thursday) noon-1:00 pm, LDC Shearer Dining Room
Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty and staff at the LDC at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin at 11:55 for the short walk over or you can meet us there. All are welcome.Student Worker Meeting
September 29, 2008October 1 (Wednesday) 4:30-5:30 pm, Olin 04
All student workers in the Physics & Astronomy Department should plan on attending this MANDATORY meeting. Ombudsperson Joanne Mullen and Kathy Evertz from the Academic Support Center will be talking with student workers.
Annual Fall Picnic
September 29, 2008October 3 (Friday) 4:00-8:00pm, Hill of Three Oaks
Remember to come to the fall picnic on Friday. Thanks to Daniel Buckleitner for agreeing to help!
Physics Table
September 15, 2008September 18 (Thursday) 12:00-1:00 pm, LDC 113
Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty, and staff at the LDC in Shearer Dining Room (the one that looks over the lakes) at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin for the short walk over, or you can meet us there.
Spring Phun Physics Picnic
May 12, 2008May 16 (Friday) 4-8 pm, Hill of Three Oaks
Come one and all to frolic in the sun, grill some food and have some fun!
Physics Table
May 5, 2008May 9 (Friday) 12:00-1:00 pm, LDC 113
Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty, staff and P123 speaker Claire Pettersen at the LDC at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin at 11:55 for the short walk over or you can meet us there. All are welcome.
Physics Table
April 28, 2008May 2 (Friday) 12:00-1:00 pm, LDC 113
Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty, staff and P123 speaker Becky Anthony at the LDC at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin at 11:55 for the short walk over or you can meet us there. All are welcome.
Sigma Xi Panel Discussion
April 21, 2008April 24 (Thursday) 7:00pm, Olin 04
All students studying science at Carleton are invited to a panel discussion with science alumni about life after Carleton.
What do Carleton Science Alumni Do?
Careers in Science: A Panel Discussion with Alums.Panel Members:
- Nancy Braker (Biology, 1981)
Director, Cowling Arboretum, formerly with the Nature Conservancy - Michael Lach (Physics, 1990)
Director of Science for the Chicago Public Schools, former high school physics teacher with Teach for America - Stephanie Ota (Chemistry, 2000)
Visiting Instructor in Chemistry, Graduate Student, University of Oregon - Anne Sawyer (Geology, 2001)
Hydrologist, National Weather Service - Carey Tinkelenberg (psychology, 2005)
Twin Study, University of MN and Founder and Executive Director, Northfield Skating
School - Ann Zawistoski (Geology and ENTs 1997)
Carleton Science Librarian
Sponsored by Sigma Xi. Refreshments will be served
- Nancy Braker (Biology, 1981)
Physics Table
April 21, 2008April 25 (Friday) 12:00-1:00 pm, LDC 113
Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty, staff and P123 speaker Michael Lach at the LDC at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin at 11:55 for the short walk over or you can meet us there. All are welcome.
Physics Table
April 14, 2008April 18 (Friday) 12:00-1:00 pm, LDC 113
Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty, staff and P123 speaker Sue Coopersmith at the LDC at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin at 11:55 for the short walk over or you can meet us there. All are welcome.
Physics Table
April 7, 2008April 11 (Friday) 12:00-1:00 pm, LDC 113
Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty, staff and P123 speaker Cliff Frohlich at the LDC at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin at 11:55 for the short walk over or you can meet us there. All are welcome.
Physics Table
March 28, 2008April 4 (Friday) 12:00-1:00 pm, LDC 113
Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty, staff and P123 speaker Craig Heinke at the LDC at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin at 11:55 for the short walk over or you can meet us there. All are welcome.
Physics Table
March 3, 2008March 6 (Thursday) 12:00-1:00 pm, LDC 113
Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty and staff at the LDC at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin at 11:55 for the short walk over or you can meet us there. All are welcome.Physics Table
November 13, 2006November 16 (Thursday) 12:00-1:00 pm, LDC 113
Plan to have lunch with physics students and staff at the LDC at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin at 11:55 for the short walk over, or you can meet us there.
View all items in Events This Week. -
Future Events
Upcoming events in the physics and astronomy department.
Physics and Astronomy Department Picnic
May 24, 2013
* * * * PICNIC! * * * *
Friday, May 24th we will hold the annual end-of-year picnic for ALL Physics and Astronomy students, faculty, and staff.
It will be held at the Hill of Three Oaks starting at 4:00 pm, but the fun will continue until 8-ish if you can't make it
right away. If strange, inclement Minnesota weather threatens, we will move things to the patio area in front of Olin Hall.
If you are currently of Junior class standing, by tradition you should volunteer to help take grills, coolers, food, etc. over to
the hill. Please email Trenne to let her know that you can, in fact, help with these essential tasks.Frisbees, balls, tightropes, juggling implements, and other fun things are welcome to join us.
If you plan to attend the picnic, please email Trenne (tfields@carleton.edu) to RSVP. If you have a board plan, be sure to
include your student ID number.Ice Cream!
May 7, 2012May 15 (Tuesday) 5pm, Olin Patio
Come celebrate spring with your fellow physicists on Tuesday, May 15 (8th week) at 5pm. We will have ice cream and toppings for anyone interested in physics (bring your friends!) at the Olin patio. Contact eberlel with questions.
Physics Table
February 6, 2012February 14 (Tuesday) noon-1pm, LDC Shearer Dining Room Plan to have lunch with physics students, faculty and staff at the LDC at noon. We can meet on 3rd Olin or you can meet us there.
Lunch with Danny Wells
September 12, 2011September 19 (Monday) noon-1pm, LDC Shearer Dining Room
Danny Wells '10, graduate student at Northwestern University, will be talking informally with interested students about pursuing applied math (specifically theoretical research in fluids, optics, numerical analysis, perturbation theory, and nonlinear dynamics), mathematical biology, as well as applying for NSF funding. Any interested students are invited to have lunch with Danny.
Physics & Astronomy Spring Picnic
May 4, 2009May 22 (Friday) 4-8pm, Hill of Oaks
All Physics & Astronomy students, faculty, and staff are invited to the annual spring picnic. Please RSVP no later than May 12 by clicking on this link and filling out the form
https://apps.carleton.edu/curricular/physics/events/picnic_rsvp/.
View all items in Future Events. -
FYI
Information that may be of interest to physics and astronomy faculty, staff, and students.
Work in the Physics Department!
May 13, 2013Did you possibly forget to turn in a work request for next year? It just so happens that there are still a couple of spots available to work in the Physics Department during fall term. You should have taken at least P151, and some background in electronics is a plus. You could find yourself helping with the electronics class, OR having fun as the electronic assistant. If Astronomy is your passion, we've got a spot for you there as well. Email tfields@carleton.edu to let Trenne know you are interested.
Loss of Dr. Paul Zitzewitz '64
May 6, 20131964 classmate and Physics alum Paul Zitzewitz has passed away. His wife, Barb, asks that we let the college know.
Work Requests Due
April 29, 2013Students:
Interested in working in the Physics and Astronomy Department next year? All students who have completed PHYS 151 are eligible to apply. You should have received an email with instructions, but here's your reminder.
The online application form can be found here: https://apps.carleton.edu/curricular/physics/for_students/forms/workpreference/.The application deadline is April 30, 2013 !
Match Corps job opportunity
April 22, 2013Are you interested in education reform? Consider joining Match Corps: Chicago, a full-time, in-school professional tutoring fellowship overseen by Match Education. We are seeking smart, idealistic, relentless people for the 2013-2014 school year. Each Fellow works with two students at a time for each period of the school day, and will have a personal caseload of 12 students for the entire school year. Fellows drive student achievement by providing individualized instruction, and by building personal and meaningful relationships with students and their families. Click here: http://hrservices.uchicago.edu/benefits/index.shtml for more information and an application.
Get reminders via Twitter and Facebook!
April 12, 2013The Carleton Physics and Astronomy Department now has it's very own Twitter feed and Facebook page! We'd like to be able to stay in touch with you, and to better help you remember those one-time events such as special lectures, lunches, evening get-togethers, and other things you might not remember to put on your calendar or in your phone. You may also be captivated by fun tweets or fascinating science facts posted on the Facebook page. Simply like our Facebook page, "Carleton Physics and Astronomy", and/or follow us on Twitter via @CarletonPhysAst.
Summer Job Opportunity
April 12, 2013Students!
Are you looking for a "hands on" summer job? This summer All Energy Solar is looking to hire solar panel installers in Northfield as part of the Solarize Northfield initiative. Training is provided. For more information, please contact Charlie Stark at cps@deskmedia.com.
Physics tutor needed
April 8, 2013Individual Physics 131 tutor wanted:
Physics 131 student desires individual tutor (at regular student pay rate). Please contact Joel if interested, @ jweisber@carleton.edu.
Get your PhD in Scotland!
April 8, 2013Seniors: If you are unsure of your post graduation plans, please consider this opportunity from Professor Nelson Christensen's gravitational wave colleagues at the University of Glasgow in Scotland.
The Institute for Gravitational Research at Glasgow University is seeking applications for a PhD studentship starting in 2013. They are looking for an experimentalist to take up PhD studies in Glasgow, and do research in their lab.
Biology Seminars
April 1, 2013Link to the Biology Department's spring seminar information:
EPIC job opportunity
April 1, 2013EPIC is a national leader in electronic health records, looking for bright and motivated problem solvers to join their Server Systems and Technical Services teams.
Dripping, Jetting, Drops,and Wetting: The Magic of Microfluidics
March 14, 2013Tuesday, April 9, 2013 at 11:00 am
Hoversten Chapel at Augsburg College
Physics of Cooking
March 14, 2013Monday, April 8, 2013 at 7:00 pm
Hoversten Chapel at Augsburg College
Medical Physics Fellowships for Graduate Study
February 28, 2013For all Pre-Med and Physics students:
The AAPM (American Association of Physicists in Medicine) has grants/fellowships for undergraduates who are interested in careers in Medical Physics. Follow the link below for more information and application information/deadlines.
http://www.aapm.org/education/grantsfellowships/Default.aspx
David Sterling is a 2006 Carleton Physics graduate now working for the University of Minnesota as a medical physicist covering Maple Grove Medical Center. He can be contacted at: david.a.sterling@gmail.com and welcomes emails from current students. He is happy to answer any questions you may have.
Student Research Showcase
February 20, 2013This is a reminder of the March 8 registration deadline for the Student Research Showcase. The Showcase is an innovative web-based competition which affords a great opportunity for students to compete in an international event without paying expensive travel costs.
Students are invited to submit project descriptions for consideration to present. Judging categories include Behavioral Sciences, Biochemistry, Cellular & Molecular Biology, Chemistry, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology, Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Geo-Sciences, Math & Computer Science, Physics & Astronomy, Physiology & Immunology and Social Sciences.
More than 400 judges from five continents have already volunteered to review student presentations.
For more information visit http://www.sigmaxi.org/showcase2013 Contact meetings@sigmaxi.org with questions.
Students who wish to present should e-mail a brief (50 words or less) project description with the subject line "Showcase Presentation Description" to meetings@sigmaxi.org .
Approval to present and registration instructions will follow the submission of project descriptions within two business days. Presentations must be pre-approved before a student may participate in the 2013 Research Showcase.
30 Minutes at Career Center - Medical Science Research
January 21, 2013Are you interested in medical science research?
On January 29th, (Week 5) at the Career Center, come talk one-on-one with Carleton Alum Scott Kaufmann about his oncology research at the Mayo Clinic.
Visiting Alum:
Tuesday, January 29 - Scott Kaufmann '75, Oncology Research, Mayo ClinicSign up through the Tunnel. Log in and click the Events tab on the right.
http://apps.carleton.edu/career/students/find_jobs/resources/tunnel/
or come to the Career Center!More information at http://apps.carleton.edu/career/programs/30_minutes/students/winter2013schedule/
Kolenkow-Reitz Fund for Undergraduate Research
January 14, 2013Students interested in doing summer break scientific research at other institutions should be aware of Carleton's Robert J. Kolenkow and Robert A. Reitz Fund for Undergraduate Research. Created by a donor, and honoring Carleton former professors Kolenkow and Reitz, the fund supports student research. Up to ten students in the natural sciences and mathematics will be supported summer break 2013, with each student receiving funds not to exceed $4200. Funding is available to Carleton international students. Support could take the form of a stipend, travel funds, housing, etc., and it could be used to supplement financial support offered by a sponsor at another institution if the student demonstrates that the sponsor's contribution is insufficient. If interested, submit an application by February 5 identifying a sponsor at another institution, a brief description of research plans with your specific role, and a budget paragraph justifying requested funds. Decisions about funding will be made before Spring Break. More information about the Robert J. Kolenkow and Robert A. Reitz Fund and the online application form can be found at: http://serc.carleton.edu/cismi/students/KolenkowReitz.html.
30 Minutes at Career Center - Medicine Week
January 9, 2013Have you ever considered working in the medical field? During Week Three (Medicine) at the Career Center, come talk one-on-one with Carleton Alumni about their careers in the world of medicine.
Visiting Alumni
- Tuesday, January 15 - Robert Meiches '76, Chief Executive Officer, Minnesota Medical Association
- Wednesday, January 16 - Jessica Radway '04, Physician Assistant
- Friday, January 18 - Lisa Bailey P '14, Surgeon, Bay Area Breast Surgeons, Inc.
Sign up through the Tunnel under the Events tab
http://apps.carleton.edu/career/students/find_jobs/resources/tunnel/
or stop by the Career Center!
More information at http://apps.carleton.edu/career/programs/30_minutes/students/schedule/
Interview with a Graduate - Betsy Cannon '11
January 4, 2013Here is an interview with Betsy Cannon 'll on her experience at Hacker School:
http://www.wired.com/geekmom/2012/12/hacker-school-experience.The Hacker School a three-month, full-time school in New York for becoming a better programmer. Tom Ballinger '09 is a facilitator at Hacker School, and he'd be happy to talk with any Carleton physics majors interested in learning more about this opportunity after graduation.
Summer Science Fellowship
January 4, 2013Are you a first or second year Carleton student interested in majoring in the sciences or math? Consider applying for a Summer Science Fellowship. This program aims to broaden participation of historically underrepresented groups (including gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic background, and disabilities) in the sciences and math by providing research opportunities for two summers as well as mentoring activities. The application deadline is January 11th. More information and the application can be found at http://serc.carleton.edu/cismi/students/summer_fellows.html
Breakthrough Saint Paul
December 4, 2012Breakthrough Saint Paul helps motivated students overcome adversity to prepare for college with the support of older students passionate about education. Each year, we seek a diverse group of talented undergraduate and high school students (juniors/seniors) to apply for our paid, nine-week summer teaching internship, complete with training and classroom teaching experience. In addition to teaching middle school students from the Saint Paul Public Schools, interns work closely with professional instructional coaches to create lessons and get feedback on their teaching throughout the summer. This internship was ranked as one of the TOP TEN SUMMER INTERNSHIPS FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS by the Princeton Review.
This year's application deadline is Monday, February 25th.
This opportunity is open to ALL MAJORS!
Please check out the website for more details!
TOPS
November 20, 2012If you are considering a career in teaching physical science at the pre-college level, then you may be interested in the six-week summer program "TOPS" sponsored by the MIT-Harvard Center for Ultracold Atoms. Information is at http://cuaweb.mit.edu/Pages/TOPS.aspx
The application deadline is February 1, 2013.
Minnesota Space Grant Consortium Scholarship
November 5, 2012Through its participation in the Minnesota Space Grant Consortium, Carleton offers MnSGC Scholarships up to $1000 to students whose area of study and career goals are related to NASA's interests in space, space-related sciences, and engineering. Student applicants must be registered full-time at Carleton and must be U.S. citizens.
More information and an application can be found at https://apps.carleton.edu/curricular/physics/for_students/Scholarships/MnSGCScholarship/. The application deadline is November 28, 2012.
30 Minutes at Career Center
October 23, 2012Have you ever considered working in Engineering or Architecture? The 30 minutes program at the Career Center allows students to visit with Alumni and talk to them about their jobs in a casual setting.
During Week 7 (Oct 29-31) at the Career Center come talk one-on-one with Carleton Alumni about their jobs in Engineering and Architecture.
Visiting Alumni
Monday, October 29 - Steve Wilmot '90, Art History Major, Architect, SMSQ ArchitectsTuesday, October 30 - Rolf Oliver '62, History Major, President, Oliver & Associates Inc.
Wednesday, October 31 - Steve Sallstrom '81, Mathematics Major, Senior Principal Design Engineer, The Toro Company
Sign up through the Tunnel under the Events tab
http://apps.carleton.edu/career/students/find_jobs/resources/tunnel/
or come to the Career Center!More information at http://apps.carleton.edu/career/programs/30_minutes/students/schedule/
ENTS 262 Materials Science, Energy, and the Environment
October 22, 2012Drawing on chemistry and physics principles, this course will focus on the relationship between the structure and physical properties of materials, how materials science can address environmental and energy challenges, and the technological and societal impacts of materials development. Topics to be covered will vary from year to year, but may include material life cycle assessment, traditional plastics and biodegradable alternatives, materials and technologies for solar energy conversion, and the role of materials in developing energy efficient buildings.
This course meets during 3A, and counts toward the applied physics requirement for the physics major. Contact Melissa Eblen-Zayas if you have any questions.
30 Minutes at Career Center
October 22, 2012Week 7 – Technology - Come network one-on-one with Carleton alumni working in technology.
Monday, October 22 - Sebastian Celis '03, Software Developer, Mobiata
Tuesday, October 23 - Josh Pepper '97, Product Designer, Microsoft
Wednesday, October 24 - Charles Schmidt '97, Lead Infosec Engineer,The MITRE Corporation
Sign up in the Tunnel for all 30 Minutes sessions!30 Minutes at Career Center - Dan Tysver '86
October 9, 2012Have you ever considered a career in Law? Well, if not, maybe you should talk to Physics Major alum and current Lawyer Daniel Tysver!
Week 6 (Oct 15-17) at the Career Center come network one-on-one with Carleton Alumni Lawyers and learn about their careers.
Visiting Alumni
Monday, October 15 - Daniel Tysver '86, Physics Major, Partner, Beck & Tysver Law Office
Tuesday, October 16 - Nadia Elnagdy '06, English Major, Assistant County Attorney, Hennepin County Attorney’s Office
Wednesday, October 17 - Jim Alexander '81, History Major, Assistant U.S. Attorney, U.S. Attorney’s Office, MinneapolisSign up through the Tunnel under the Events tab
http://apps.carleton.edu/career/students/find_jobs/resources/tunnel/
or come to the Career Center!More information at http://apps.carleton.edu/career/programs/30_minutes/students/schedule/
Science and Math Teachers & Tutors Needed in northern Uganda
October 8, 2012Do you excel in Physics, Math, Chemistry and/or Biology? Can you explain one or several of these sciences to others? If so, then we need you!
We need you to teach students that were child soldiers, girls that were sex slaves or those that were orphaned by the war waged by Joseph Kony's Lord's Resistance Army (LRA). The first goal is to see that these youth can pass the National Examination so that they can build a future for themselves. Second goal is to ignite a passion for the sciences.
Are you up for the challenge?
If so, then please read NGOabroad website
http://www.ngoabroad.com/
and send answered Questionnaire and resume to: info@NGOabroad.comThis is a volunteer opportunity. Come whenever it fits into your schedule after May 2013. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Kolenkow Reitz Fund for Undergraduate Research
October 1, 2012Carleton's Kolenkow Reitz Fund supports students doing research at other institutions during winter and summer breaks. Up to eight students in the natural sciences and mathematics will be supported winter break 2012, with each student receiving funds not to exceed $1500. More information and an online application can be found at http://serc.carleton.edu/cismi/students/KolenkowReitz.html.
The applications for winter break support are due October 15, 2012.
Hertz Graduate Fellowship
October 1, 2012The Hertz Foundation is offering graduate fellowships for innovators in the applied physical, biological and engineering sciences. They are looking for applicants with exceptional creativity, a broad understanding of physical principles, and outstanding potential for innovative research. Preference is given to seniors and first year graduate students. The application deadline is November 2, 2012. Note that only general GRE scores are needed at this time. More information and an application can be found at www.hertzfoundation.org.
ACT is looking for volunteer science tutors!
September 28, 2012Help local Northfield students with math and science! Be a volunteer tutor through the CCCE and work with students one-on-one or in a group setting at Northfield or Faribault High School. Email clarkr for more info if interested.
DCC Members Needed
September 17, 2012Physics students are needed to serve on the Department Curriculum Committee. DCC members serve as a liason between physics & astronomy students and the faculty. Members are committed to attending DCC meetings and department events, and are responsible for organizing other events over the course of each year. If you are interested in serving= contact Melissa, meblenza.
WIPA - Physics Research 101
September 11, 2012The Women in Physics and Astronomy (WiPA) group at the University of Minnesota is hosting "Physics Research 101," an event for undergraduate women in physics and related fields. All female undergraduate students are invited to attend. The basic information is as follows:
Date: Monday October 1st, 2012
Time: 6:30-9:30 PM
Location: Tate Lab of Physics, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, East Bank (specific room TBA)
Who: All undergraduate women currently majoring in or interested in physics or related fields (astronomy, engineering, etc)RSVP:wipa@umn.edu (preferably by Sept. 20, 2011)
Cost: FREE
Goodbye to Graduates
May 28, 2012The department would like to wish goodbye and good fortune to Dustin, Jason, Colleen, Jonathon, Ross, Ben, Michael, Louisa, Valerie, Kiyo, Kevin, Traci, Sam, Micah, Minty, Kyle, Min Yao, Tyler, Emily, Lisa, Becky Sarah and Shao Min. Best of luck to all the graduates of 2012!
Everything you wanted to know about physics grad school webinar
May 28, 2012Free webinar on “Everything you wanted to know about physics grad school”
In this webinar on Tuesday, June 12 from 3:00pm-4:00pm ET, undergraduates will have an opportunity to have an open, candid discussion with a panel of Graduate Students about their experiences. Topics will include the grad school selection and application process, financial support through teaching and research grants, coursework and qualifying exams, and research and thesis writing. For more info and to register, click here.
ASTR 113 Fall Term
May 14, 2012Astro 113 night lab - the funnest course at Carleton (says Joel). Consider signing up for it for fall term. Anyone reading this has adequate prerequisites. Contact Joel with questions.
PHYS 234 Fall Term
May 14, 2012Next fall, Bill Titus will be offering Physics 234, Computer Simulation in Complex Physical Systems. This course only requires one 5-week, introductory physics course (131, 132, 141, or 142), and the subject material is applicable to all the sciences, mathematics, and computer science. In particular, the course will focus on the development of techniques to study complex physical systems from a computational/probabilistic standpoint using Mathematica. Some potential topics include random walks, percolation clusters, avalanches, traffic flow, the spread of forest fires and diseases, and the inverse problem in geophysical gravity studies. The latter topic will involve a brief introduction to Bayesian statistics. No Mathematica skills are assumed. The course will be taught on the Tuesdays/Thursday schedule and the class sessions will be a mixture of discussion, lecture, and computer laboratory work. If you have any questions about the course, feel free to contact Bill.
Physics & Astronomy Spring Picnic
May 7, 2012The Picnic is set for Friday, May 25. Please RSVP here https://apps.carleton.edu/curricular/physics/events/picnic_rsvp/ so we know how much food to purchase. Students who are on board will have one meal deducted from their meal plan to help defray the cost of the picnic.
Soudan Underground Lab Summer Undergraduate Internship
May 7, 2012The Soudan Underground Lab is looking for 3 undergraduate students who are studying in the science and/or education field to work at the Soudan Underground Lab this summer. This position involves leading the science tours of the lab as well as continued development of our Outreach program. These positions are open for the full summer, 10 weeks starting in June. We will be working 10 hour days with a maximum
of 40 hours per week. Schedules can be flexible but our goal is to cover all tours which happen at least twice day, 7 days a week. There will also be 2 or 3, K-12 teachers and an Outreach coordinator that will work with you during the summer. Housing arrangements can be provided if needed. Visit www.soudan.umn.edu to learn more about the lab.Visit https://employment.umn.edu/applicants/jsp/shared/Welcome_css.jsp and search for requisition number 177945 for the job posting, more information, and a description of how to apply.
Deadline is fast, 15 May.
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Dr. Rik Gran, Associate Professor of Physics, U Minnesota DuluthSpring Picnic
April 23, 2012The date for the spring picnic has been set for Friday, May 25 on the Hill of Oaks - mark your calendars now. Thanks to Louisa Eberle for volunteering to help with this event
Work in Physics & Astronomy Department Next Year
April 2, 2012The Physics & Astronomy Department relies heavily on our students to serve as laboratory assistants, graders, tutors, and technical assistants in support of our academic program. We strongly believe that such activities provide important benefits to you beyond the obvious monetary compensation. Seniors and recent grads will tell you that a lot of good solid learning occurs, and new insights develop. You can, and should, cite this experience in future employment or grad school applications, just as we will cite it in formulating supporting letters for you.
It is time to arrange these job positions for next year. All students who would like to work in the Department should fill out an application found here. Applications must be received by April 15, 2012.
Highly Selective Urban Education Fellowship
March 28, 2012Do you want to be an unusually effective first year teacher in a high-poverty charter school?
If so, you should consider MATCH Teacher Residency--a highly innovative, one-year teacher residency program.
Basically, we give recent college graduates one year of incredibly intense training designed to make them unusually effective rookie teachers. We then help them find positions in high-need schools, and continue to support them as they begin their careers in the classroom.
What sets MTR apart from other teacher prep programs? 1) We’re prescriptive, like a sports coach or piano teacher; you learn and practice very specific “Teacher Moves.” 2) Trainees are specifically being prepared to teach in certain charter schools with a track record of “turning around” low-performing kids. 3) We have a very particular approach, which involves building relationships 1-on-1 with kids and parents, then using those relationships to run a tight ship in class, enforcing rules consistently, and pushing/demanding a LOT from our kids.
MTR is no different from the MATCH Corps (our full-time tutoring program) from Monday to Thursday. However, unlike MATCH Corps, MTRs want to go on to become full-time teachers in high-poverty, “No Excuses” charter schools. So on Fridays and Saturdays, MTRs learn about the nuts and bolts of teaching, do tons of practice, and get a lot of coaching.
We’re especially proud of our brand new elementary school, MATCH Community Day, which specifically serves students who speak a language other than English at home. MATCH Teacher Residents have the option to serve at MATCH Community Day, or our previously established High School or Middle School. For more information on MATCH Community Day, have a look at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RGUV8Jbeu-c
Does MTR work? Yes—check out this study to see how MTR trained teachers tend to outperform other rookie (and second year) teachers:
http://www.matchschool.org/publications/mtr_evaluation.pdf
For more information about MATCH Teacher Residency, check out this video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32mkkuQnFYU
Or go to the website:
Looking for Tutors
February 27, 2012Tutor one-on-one with a Northfield student for about an hour a week! We constantly receive requests for tutors from the community. Sign up to fulfill one of these requests by following the link and filling out the Tutor Profile form. You will be added to our list of interested tutors and we will contact you when we find you a tutee match! Matches are based on subject area and the greatest area of need is in math and science! Contact vangb or steidele with questions.
https://apps.carleton.edu/campus/act/tutoring/students/
This program is supported by the ACT Center under the Center for Community and Civic Engagement (CCCE).
New Course - GEO 240 Geophysics - Offered Spring Term
February 20, 2012Sarah Titus and Bill Titus will be offering an applied geophysics course this spring, Geology 240. The goal of the course is to understand, both from a physics and geology point of view, the near-surface structure of the earth using a very hands-on approach. Students will collect, process, model, and interpret geophysical and related data using gravitational, magnetic, and seismic methods. Ideally the course will have a good mixture of physics and geology students. The classes are on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:10 AM to 11:55 AM and the weekly lab is on Thursday afternoon from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The prerequisites for the course are one of the intro geology courses (100, 110, or 120) and one of the intro physics courses (131, 132, 141, 142), or the consent of the instructors. If you have questions, you can talk with Bill (Olin 201) or email Sarah, who is presently in New Zealand leading the geology off campus program on the South Island.
Internship Opportunity for Summer 2012 in San Diego
February 10, 2012Parents of a Carleton alum have sent us information about an internship opportunity available this summer. Here are the details.
Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) - San Diego would consider a U.S. citizen interested in a summer internship in the area of signal processing and Matlab programming to support research for military technology. We will pay an hourly wage but can not pay for transportation and living expenses. Probably best suited for someone with family in San Diego or a stipend or scholarship from Carleton or other organization to cover expenses.
Interested students should contact:
Gerald Gerace, Ph.D.
GERALD.C.GERACE@saic.com
Kolenkow Reitz Fund for Undergraduate Research
January 30, 2012Students interested in doing summer break scientific research at other institutions should be aware of Carleton's Robert J. Kolenkow and Robert A. Reitz Fund for Undergraduate Research. Created by a donor, and honoring Carleton former professors Kolenkow and Reitz, the fund supports student research. Up to ten students in the natural sciences and mathematics will be supported summer break 2012, with each student receiving funds not to exceed $4200. Funding is available to Carleton international students. Support could take the form of a stipend, travel funds, housing, etc., and it could be used to supplement financial support offered by a sponsor at another institution if the student demonstrates that the sponsor's contribution is insufficient. If interested, submit an application by Feb 16 identifying a sponsor at another institution, a brief description of research plans with your specific role, and a budget paragraph justifying requested funds. Decisions about funding will be made before Spring Break. More information about the Robert J. Kolenkow and Robert A. Reitz Fund and the online application form can be found at: http://serc.carleton.edu/cismi/students/KolenkowReitz.html.
APS Minority Scholarship
January 9, 2012The American Physical Society has a scholarship program for minority undergraduate physics majors The purpose of the program is to significantly increase the level of underrepresented minority participation in physics in the US.
Any African-American, Hispanic American, or Native American U.S. citizen or permanent resident who is majoring or planning to major in physics, and who is a high school senior, college freshman, or sophomore is eligible to apply for the scholarship. Engineering physics and applied physics majors also welcome to apply.
Deadline: Friday, February 3, 2012
More information and the application can be found at http://www.aps.org/programs/minorities/honors/scholarship/index.cfm.
Opportunities for Students to Practice Public Presentations
January 9, 2012The Speakeasy will continue to offer assistance with comps talks, student presentations, and all other public speaking events this term. Coaching is available in all areas of presentations including posture, articulation, projection, body language, eye contact, command of material, and effective use of visual aids. The Speakeasy coach can also work with students on the material of the presentation, including content, organization, flow, and clarity. Students Diana Fraser ('14) and Shavera Seneviratne ('13, English) staff the Speakeasy.
Clare Boothe Luce Research Scholars Program
January 9, 2012The Department of Physics & Astronomy is proud to offer the Clare Boothe Luce Research Scholars Program, which supports female science majors who are pursuing summer research projects in physics, astronomy, and computer science as well as cross-disciplinary research projects in computational physics, geophysics, biophysics, computational chemistry, and physical chemistry. The awards will be given annually to eight women in Physics & Astronomy and Computer Science or related fields. Each recipient will be paid a stipend of $4200 for 10 weeks of summer research, with additional funds allotted for research expenses and travel to meetings to present results. The CBL Research Scholars will take part in cohort activities such as summer lunch meetings, presentation of a poster on their research at Carleton's annual poster session and participation in related CBL activities throughout the academic year following their summer research.
To be eligible, the applicant must be:
- Female interested in physics, astronomy, computer science or related fields.
- U.S. Citizen
- Preference is for 1st or 2nd year students
The application deadline is 8AM January 23, 2012. The application and more information can be found here.
Summer Science Fellowship
January 3, 2012Are you a first or second year Carleton student interested in majoring in the sciences or math? Consider applying for a Summer Science Fellowship. This program aims to broaden participation of historically underrepresented groups (including gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic background, and disabilities) in the sciences and math by providing research opportunities for two summers as well as mentoring activities. The application deadline is January 13th. More information and the application can be found at http://serc.carleton.edu/cismi/students/summer_fellows.html
MATCH Corp
November 15, 2011Recent Carleton alum Sara Parr sent this info to us about the MATCH Corp program. Sara says "I'm sending you this because I think some of this year’s senior Physics majors might be interested in the MATCH Corps, the program I’m currently doing. Basically, it’s tutoring and teaching at an inner-city school in Boston. Typically after the year, fellows go on to top grad schools in medicine, law, and the social sciences, become full-time teachers in high-need schools, or get involved in education policy and administration. The application process is highly selective and the demands of the program are intense, but it’s been a really rewarding experience so far."
All the info on the program can be found here: http://www.matchschool.org/matchcorps/process.htm
TOPS
November 15, 2011If you are considering a pre college teaching career you may be interested in the six-week summer program for physics majors, TOPS, sponsored by the MIT-Harvard Center for Ultracold Atoms.
The program is aimed at juniors, though sophomores sometimes participate. More information can be found at
http://cuaweb.mit.edu/Pages/TOPS.aspx
Sam Keller participated in this program last year so you could ask him about his experience.
Astronomy Writing Competition
November 7, 2011Ever wanted to write a popular science article? The good news! Griffiths Observatory is running its annual astronomy writing competition again this year. All you have to do is to write a popular-level piece on some astronomical topic of your choice and you could win $1000 and be published in their magazine. If you're interested in entering, talk to John Weiss for more details.
Department of Energy Scholars Program
October 19, 2011The Department of Energy (DOE) Scholars Program (http://orise.orau.gov/doescholars/default.htm) is now accepting applications for Summer 2012. The program offers summer internships with stipends of up to $650 per week depending on academic status to undergraduates, graduate students and post graduates at accredited institutes of higher education. The application deadline is November 15, 2011.
Win Dinner for Two at Chapati!
October 17, 2011Wouldn’t that be nice? All you have to do is to design the winning poster for our lab doors that encourages students to
- re-lock lab doors when they unlock
- close the lab doors when they are the last to leave and
- make sure the lights are out and that the doors are locked if no one is in the room.
The poster must be such that it can be reproduced. Send all entries to Mary Drew by midnight, Halloween.
High School Physics Tutors Needed
October 12, 2011Northfield high School is in need of physics tutors during second hour 8:45-9:30 am on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday or Fridays. They are also looking for science tutors for our after-school homework help program on Monday and Thursday's from 3-4:30 pm. Interested volunteers should contact AmeriCorps Promise Fellow Katie Windschitl at Katie.Windschitl@nfld.k12.mn.us.
Hertz Graduate Fellowship
October 3, 2011The Hertz Foundation is offering graduate fellowships for innovators in the applied physical, biological and engineering sciences. They are looking for applicants with exceptional creativity, a broad understanding of physical principles, and outstanding potential for innovative research. Preference is given to seniors and first year graduate students. The application deadline is October 31, 2011. Note that only general GRE scores are needed at this time. More information and an application can be found at www.hertzfoundation.org.
Sigma Xi Poster Workshop
September 30, 2011Need ideas for Science or Math poster? Are you wondering how exactly one of these posters should look? Doug Foxgrover and Sarah Deel are offering a workshop this coming Tuesday, October 4th in which you’ll learn how to make a scientific poster. Bring your draft poster if you have one, or otherwise just bring your ideas, raw materials and data if you have any. No previous experience is necessary at all. The workshop will be held in CMC 110 from 8:00 pm to 9:30 pm. Refreshments will be offered. To RSVP for the workshop, please visit:
http://serc.carleton.edu/cismi/students/poster_workshop.htmlKolenkow Reitz Fund for Undergraduate Research
September 26, 2011Carleton's Kolenkow Reitz Fund supports students doing research at Carleton and other institutions during winter and summer breaks. Up to eight students in the natural sciences and mathematics will be supported winter break 2011, with each student receiving funds not to exceed $1500. More information and an online application can be found at http://serc.carleton.edu/cismi/students/KolenkowReitz.html.
Please note that selection preference is given to off campus work. The applications for winter break support are due October 15, 2011.
Career Center "30 Minutes" Program
September 20, 2011The Career Center is starting up the "30 Minutes" program this fall, bringing students interested in a specific job or industry face-to-face with alumni experienced in that field. In just half an hour (hence the name), Carleton networking magic happens. Week 4 is featuring ENGINEERING/ARCHITECTURE alumni in positions such as civil, design, and equipment engineers, architects, and sustainability directors. Other industries in the following weeks include Film/Media & Journalism, Law, and Consulting.
The idea is simple: Alumni take an afternoon off from work to meet with students for casual, candid, one-on-one conversations. Students ask questions about the alum’s industry, a typical day/week in their shoes, educational requirements, resources for learning more, and ways to gain experience in the field. Furthermore, alumni often refer students to contacts or resources outside of the Carleton network.
These meetings are a quick thirty minutes, so students can get on with their busy lives at Carleton. The brevity and informality of the sessions makes them an engaging and low-pressure way to introduce students to the power of networking.
NO APPLICATION NECESSARY, simply visit http://apps.carleton.edu/campus/career/30_minutes/ to sign up and read alumni bios!If you have any questions, contact gudule@carleton.edu.
Senior Questionnaire
May 16, 2011All graduating seniors are asked to fill out a questionnaire about their future plans, contact information and how they went about making plans for life after Carleton. The questionnaire can be found at https://apps.carleton.edu/curricular/physics/for_students/forms/senior_questionnaire/. It will take a few minutes to fill out, but we really do appreciate the information you choose to share with us.
Summer Survey
May 16, 2011All Sophomore and Junior physics majors are asked to fill out a brief survey about your summer plans. The survey will only take a minute to complete and can be found at https://apps.carleton.edu/curricular/physics/for_students/forms/summer_survey/.
Institutional Research and Assessment Intern position - Summer 2011
May 9, 2011Department or Office: Office of Institutional Research and AssessmentDate Open: June 13, 2011Description: The Office of Institutional Research and Assessment is looking for an Institutional Research and Assessment Intern for the Summer 2011. The Intern will work closely with the IRA staff on a variety of research projects, reports, and data input, analysis, and maintenance depending on skills. A primary project will focus on the 2011 Writing Portfolio (WP) process — initially facilitating reading days in June and then inputting data, creating files to document the process and managing WP materials. If the skills are available, there will be opportunities to explore research questions through data analyses and creating visual representations of data as well as updating the office website. Routine, clerical support work as needed. The work is interesting, varied, engaging intellectual, and offers opportunities both for creativity and for making genuine contributions to Carleton’s self-understanding.Requirements: The work is generally quantitative and requires strong computer skills especially Excel, Microsoft Word, and Power Point. The ability to work independently with consistent attention to accuracy and detail is essential. Experience in research methods, survey research, and analysis, statistical techniques, Web design, are all helpful. This work involves confidential data, which requires absolute discretion and attention to data security.Hours:June 13 - July 20: Full-time 8-5, M-F It is essential that the Institutional and Assessment Research Intern be available to work with the summer Writing Portfolio evaluation the week after commencement and through July 20th until all details of the evaluation have been documented, analyzed, and organized.July 20 – September 1: Hours are negotiable but full-time work is available. This position can potentially extend into Fall term.To apply: Submit resume to Cherry Danielson, Associate Director of Institutional Research and Assessment cdaniels@carleton.edu – Questions? Call ext. 5740Please indicate your interest in this position right away. We will begin interviewing immediately.PHYS 234 - Computer Simulation in Complex Physical Systems
May 9, 2011Next fall, Bill Titus will be offering Physics 234, Computer Simulation in Complex Physical Systems. This course only requires one 5-week, introductory physics course (131,132,141,or 142), and the subject material is applicable to all the sciences, mathematics, and computer science. In particular, the course will focus on the development of techniques to study complex physical systems from a computational/probabilistic standpoint using Mathematica. Some potential topics include random walks, percolation clusters, avalanches, traffic flow, the spread of forest fires and diseases, and the inverse problem in geophysical gravity studies. The latter topic will involve a brief introduction to Bayesian statistics. No Mathematica skills are assumed. The course will be taught on the Tuesdays/Thursday schedule and the class sessions will be a mixture of discussion, lecture, and computer laboratory work. If you have any questions about the course, feel free to contact Bill. You can also talk with Chelsea Scott (Olin 14, x5636), the only person left at Carleton who took the course the last time it was offered.
Thank You Shao Min
September 20, 2010A special thank you goes out to Shao Min Tan who drew the Radiations logo at the top of this newsletter. Another example of how very talented all of the physics students are. Thank you Shao Min!
Clare Boothe Luce Research Scholars Program
November 16, 2009The Department of Physics & Astronomy is proud to offer the Clare Boothe Luce Research Scholars Program, which supports female science majors who are pursuing summer research projects in physics, astronomy, and computer science as well as cross-disciplinary research projects in computational physics, geophysics, biophysics, computational chemistry, and physical chemistry. The awards will be given annually to eight women in Physics & Astronomy and Computer Science or related fields. Each recipient will be paid a stipend of $4200 for 10 weeks of summer research, with additional funds allotted for research expenses and travel to meetings to present results. The CBL Research Scholars will take part in cohort activities such as summer lunch meetings, presentation of a poster on their research at Carleton's annual poster session and participation in related CBL activities throughout the academic year following their summer research.
To be eligible, the applicant must be:
- Female interested in physics, astronomy, computer science or related fields.
- U.S. Citizen
- Preference is for 1st or 2nd year students
The application deadline is January 15, 2010. The application and more information can be found here.
Summer Research Away from Carleton - REUs and Internships
November 6, 2009As information on REUs and internships comes into the department, it is posted online at http://apps.carleton.edu/curricular/physics/for_students/reu/.
Check for new information often as this site gets updated regularly. Start preparing your applications over winter break because many of these REUs have deadlines in mid January and you will want to come back to Carleton ready to submit your applications.
Please read the instructions for requesting letters of reference here http://apps.carleton.edu/curricular/physics/for_students/references/ before you ask for a letter of reference from a faculty member. This will make the process go more smoothly for everyone.
Knowles 2010 Teaching Fellowships
November 5, 2009Do you have a passion for teaching high school science or math? Are you committed to becoming an outstanding professional teacher? A Teaching Fellowship from the Knowles Science Teaching Foundation can make all the difference.
Applications are now being accepted for one of the most generous and comprehensive teaching fellowships available for individuals committed to becoming professional high school science or mathematics teachers.
KSTF Teaching Fellowships provide up to five years of financial and professional support to exceptional individuals as they begin their careers teaching in U.S. high schools.Applicants should have:
- at least a bachelor's degree in science, engineering or mathematics
- received their most recent content degree within the past five years (Individuals currently enrolled in a secondary math or science teaching credential program are eligible if they are within five years of their most recent content degree and have not completed their teaching credential before December 2009.)
Fellowships will be awarded in each of three disciplinary strands: biology, physical science, and mathematics. More information on the Fellowship can be found at http://www.kstf.org/fellowships/teaching.html.Application Deadline: Wednesday, January 13, 2010, 5:00pm EST
National Science Teachers Association Conference
October 19, 2009The National Science Teachers Association Conference will be held in Minneapolis October 29-31 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. Students interested in science education might enjoy attending Arthur Eisenkraft's presentations on the Active Physics curriculum and the Active Chemistry curriculum Thursday afternoon, October 29, from 2-3 and 3:30 to 4:30. Dr. Eisenkraft has also agreed to talk with our students about science teaching pathways. Dr. Eisenkraft taught in the NY City public schools for years with a PhD. U Mass Boston recruited him several years back and he has been involved in the Boston public school reforms as well as many aspects of teacher professional development at U. Mass. If you are interested in attending, please contact Mary to coordinate travel with Carleton students from other science departments.
Kolenkow Reitz Fund for Undergraduate Research
October 5, 2009Students interested in doing winter-break scientific research at Carleton or other institutions should be aware of Carleton's Robert J. Kolenkow and Robert A. Reitz Fund for Undergraduate Research. Created by a donor, and honoring Carleton former professors Kolenkow and Reitz, the fund supports student research. Up to ten students in the natural sciences and mathematics will be supported winter break 2009, with each student receiving funds not to exceed $1500. Funding is available to Carleton international students. Support could take the form of a stipend, travel funds, housing, etc., and it could be used to supplement financial support offered by a sponsor at another institution if the student demonstrates that the sponsor's contribution is insufficient. If interested, submit an application by Friday, October 16, identifying a sponsor at another institution or here at Carleton, a brief description of research plans with your specific role, and a budget paragraph justifying requested funds. Decisions about funding will be made by October 28. More information about the Robert J. Kolenkow and Robert A. Reitz Fund and the online application form may be found at: http://serc.carleton.edu/cismi/KolenkowReitz.html .
Reduced Gravity Student Program
September 21, 2009The Reduced Gravity Education Flight Program's Microgravity University provides a unique academic experience for undergraduate students to successfully propose, design, fabricate, fly and evaluate a reduced gravity experiment of their choice over the course of six months. The overall experience includes scientific research, hands-on experimental design, test operations and educational/public outreach. More information including deadlines can be found at http://microgravityuniversity.jsc.nasa .
Summer Job in Material Science
May 25, 2009Research, design, testing and analysis of applications involving flowable solids subjected to kinetic and thermal energy utilizing new technologies. Northfield area, flexible schedule, full or part time. Paid position. Contact John Zander at 663-7715 or jfzander@yahoo.com
Alex Filippenko at U of MN
May 4, 2009Interested in going to a talk on dark energy on Thursday, May 7 ? Alex Filippenko, professor of astronomy at the University of California, Berkeley, will present "Dark Energy and the Runaway Universe" as part of the Karlis Kaufmanis Lecture Series ( http://www.astro.umn.edu/outreach/Kaufmanis2009.html ). The talk begins at 7:00pm so we will need to leave Carleton by 5:45pm. Contact Cindy by Tuesday, May 5 if your interested in going to the lecture.
Mother's Day
May 4, 2009May 10 (Sunday) All Day Long, Everywhere
Mother's Day is this Sunday. Don't forget to call your Mom and tell her that you love and appreciate her - that's all she really wants for Mother's Day.
If you are really missing your mom, view this video to hear all the things she said to you everyday http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7R9SFBLvIk.
Girl Scouts Math & Science Day
April 27, 2009The Women in Math and Science (WhIMS) club is looking for volunteers to help with Girl Scout Math and Science Day this Saturday morning. Mini-lessons will be taught to girl scouts in physics, chemistry, biology, geology, and math. If you are interested in helping out, please contact rosenheh, coxt
Physics & Astronomy Spring Picnic
April 20, 2009Mark your calendars. The date for the spring picnic has been set for Friday May 22 at the Hill of Oaks. Juniors willing to help with the picnic are needed. Please email Mary (mdrew) if you are willing to help.
Tiffany Cox's Geology Comps Talk
April 13, 2009Tiffany Cox's GEOLOGY Comps Talk is Tuesday, April 14, 5pm in Olin 141, for those of you who are interested in attending. She will be discussing an earthquake sequence from Mexico, which she spent the summer and the last two terms analyzing. There will be snacks, so come early.
Summer Internship at Soudan Underground Laboratory
April 9, 2009Internships are available to work work at the Soudan Underground Lab this summer. This position would involve working with the DNR giving science tours of the lab as well as continued development of our Outreach program. It might especially be a good opportunity for students who have just finished their sophomore year and have completed the Atom
and Nuclear Physics course. Visit www.soudan.umn.edu to learn more about the lab, or ask Chris Marshall who was an intern there and can say more about the experience, and about losing a Toyota Camry to the local wildlife.REU at Case Western Reserve University
April 2, 2009There is a new NSF-sponsored REU program in physics at Case Western Reserve University. The program is described at http://www.phys.cwru.edu/reu/. It is scheduled to run this summer from June 1 through August 7. They are seeking highly motivated undergraduates who wish to engage in an intensive ten-week research experience mentored by a CWRU faculty member. The application deadline is April 25.
Michio Kaku at U of MN April 15
March 27, 2009MINNEAPOLIS, MN—(March 23, 2009) World renowned physicist and best-selling author Michio Kaku will discuss his book, Physics of the Impossible on Wednesday, April 15 at 7:00 p.m. at the University of Minnesota Bookstore in Coffman Memorial Union, 300 Washington Ave. S.E. Minneapolis.
From the front line of some of the most exciting developments in physics research, Kaku explores the fundamentals—and limits—of the laws of physics as we know them today. He examines the impossible technologies abandoned by scientists and relegated to science fiction. Physics of the Impossible is a fascinating and wildly entertaining exploration of force fields, time travel, precognition, parallel universes and much more from one of contemporary physics’ most brilliant minds.
Kaku is a professor of Theoretical Physics at the City University of New York. He is the author of Visions, Beyond Einstein, Hyperspace and Parallel Worlds. He is the cofounder of string field theory and hosts a nationally syndicated radio science program and the largest science web site on the Internet at www.mkaku.org.
Kaku will sign copies of his book following the discussion. This event is free and open to the public. For more information, or to order a signed copy visit www.bookstore.umn.edu/genref/authors.html.
I Love Science Day at NHS
January 23, 2009Northfield High School will be hosting an I Love Science Day for elementary students in grades K-5, February 14, 9:00-11:00am. We are looking for some physics & astronomy students who would be willing to do some hands on demonstrations geared toward elementary students. Email Mary Drew (mdrew@carleton.edu) if you would like to participate.
Summer '09 Research Positions in Physics & Astronomy at Carleton
January 23, 2009Each summer professors in the Physics & Astronomy Department at Carleton hire 8-10 students to do research with them during the summer. Some of the positions have been filled with students who have been doing special projects during the school year. A limited number of positions are still available. To find out which professors are hiring and how to apply visit our department webpage Summer Research at Carleton.
Green Corps 2009-2010 Field School for Environmental Organizing
January 19, 2009Bessie Schwarz, Carleton ’08, is holding an info session at 7pm on January 29th in Sayles 251 about the training school. Learn more about the Green Corps and ask all your questions.
Lost Calculator
January 12, 2009Are you missing your calculator? One was left in Olin 211 at the end of fall term. If it was your calculator, come to Olin 331, describe it, and it will be yours again.
REU Information
January 5, 2009Over the break the REU page on the Physics & Astronomy website was updated with the current information on REUs available this summer. The application deadlines are coming up quickly so you should be appling soon. Don't wait until the last minute! For many of these applications you will need letters of reference from faculty members. Information on how to ask for a letter of reference can be found here. Please gather the information requested before you ask department members for a letter of reference.
Midwest Conference for Undergraduate Women in Physics
November 14, 2008In January, the University of Illinois will be hosting the Midwest Conference for Undergraduate Women in Physics. For more information, check out the conference website: http://physics.illinois.edu/conferences/wip/. Please send Melissa an e-mail by the end of the day on Wednesday, November 19th if you think you might be interested in attending or if you have questions.
NOAA/Hollings Undergraduate Scholarship
November 14, 2008The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Ernest F. Hollings (Hollings) scholarship program is designed to: (1) increase undergraduate training in oceanic and atmospheric science, research, technology, and education and foster multidisciplinary training opportunities; (2) increase public understanding and support for stewardship of the ocean and atmosphere and improve environmental literacy; (3) recruit and prepare students for public service careers with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and other natural resource and science agencies at the federal, state and local levels of government; and (4) recruit and prepare students for careers as teachers and educators in oceanic and atmospheric science and to improve scientific and environmental education in the United States.
Benefits: 1. Up to $8,000 of academic assistance per school year for full-time study during the junior and senior years. 2. A required, 10-week, paid ($650/week) internship during the summer between the junior and senior years at NOAA or a NOAA approved facility. 3. A housing subsidy during the internship and limited reimbursement for round-trip travel to the internship site for scholars who do not reside at home during the summer internship. 4. Travel expenses to the Hollings scholarship program conference at the completion of the internship.
More information and an application can be found at http://see.orau.org/ProgramDescription.aspx?Program=10183
Undergraduate Research in Europe
November 10, 2008Undergraduate students from US and Canadian universities, who are interested in conducting their own research project at RWTH Aachen University next summer, are invited to register for a project as of now. After the application deadline (January 31, 2009), 30 scholarships of 1850 Euros each will be awarded to qualified students. Program dates will be May 25 to July 31, 2009
KSTF Teaching Fellowships
October 30, 2008The Knowles Science Teaching Foundation (KSTF) is seeking applicants for Biology, Physical Science and Mathematics Teaching Fellowships. The fellowship supports exceptional individuals who are committed to becoming outstanding high school math and science teachers. KSTF seeks to promote excellence in science and mathematics teaching in United States high schools in order to help maintain our nation's economic
competitiveness and reverse the current national trend of high attrition rates among beginning teachers. We strive to elevate the perception of teaching as a complex, highly-skilled profession and to nurture future leaders and change agents in the field of education.Matt Frank, Astrophysicist and Athlete
October 20, 2008Our own Matt Frank is the first person covered in a new Knights Online series about Carleton's student-athletes, coaches and teams. You can read the article about Matt at this link https://apps.carleton.edu/athletics/varsity_sports/football/?story_id=457708.
Hertz Foundation Graduate Fellowship
October 3, 2008The Hertz Foundation is offering graduate fellowships for innovators in the applied physical, biological and engineering sciences. They are looking for applicants with exceptional creativity, a broad understanding of physical principles, and outstanding potential for innovative research. Preference is given to seniors and first year graduate students. The application deadline is October 31, 2008. Note that only general GRE scores are needed at this time. More information and an application can be found at www.hertzfoundation.org.
Summer Survey
May 26, 2008Sophomores and Juniors your 2008 Summer Plans Survey is due on Tuesday, May 27. Please be sure to get them in on time. Even if your summer plans are unknown, please let me know so that I don't have to pester you.
Twin Cities Progressive Tech Project job
May 15, 2008The PROGRESSIVE TECHNOLOGY PROJECT (PTP) is seeking an additional member for its PROGRAM STAFF in Minnesota. To apply, please send a brief cover letter, resume and detailed work history to Mark Sherman at info [at] progressivetech.org.
Please read the Position Description atfor details.Physics Spring Picnic
May 5, 2008All Physics & Astronomy students faculty and staff are invited to the annual spring picnic held at the Hill of Three Oaks, Friday May 16 at 4 pm. Please RSVP no later than Thursday May 8 by clicking on this link and filling out the form. https://apps.carleton.edu/curricular/physics/spring_picnic_rsvp/
T-Shirts - Let the Voting Begin!
May 5, 2008Designs are in. It's time to vote. The designs are hanging outside the 2nd Olin Lounge with a number by each one. Look at them, admire them, ponder the punniness and physics behind them. Then tell me which one you like best. Vote by emailing Tiffany, coxt , the number of your choice by Thursday 5pm. Remember, if you don't vote, then you have no right to complain about the shirt.
T-shirt Time
April 22, 2008It's time to start thinking about the most important part of your year ... PHYSICS T-SHIRTS!!! We need design ideas and color schemes. Start being creative, come up with something witty or cool and just plain physics-y. Designs should be submitted to Tiffany, coxt, by 5pm WEDNESDAY APRIL 30, so that people have time to think before voting, which ends on WEDNESDAY, May 7. Remember the person who designs the winning t-shirt not only wins the coveted physics t-shirt designer of the year award but a FREE T-SHIRT too. (Wow, people, that is quite the incentive...) Submit both the design and a corresponding color scheme (t-shirt color and 1 color for pattern. T-shirts should be around the same cost as last year(~$12). Remember, if no one submits a design, there will be NO SHIRT! And we don't want that to happen.
Spring Picnic
April 14, 2008Mark your calendars! The date for the Physics and Astronomy Spring Picnic has been set for Friday May 16 at 4 pm. Look for more information coming soon.
Soudan Underground Lab Internship
April 7, 2008The Soudan Underground Lab in Northern Minnesota has two or three positions available as an science outreach undergraduate intern. The duties will be to give daily science tours and develop outreach materials targeted at grades 8-12 as well as the general public including posters, exhibits, and demonstrations involving cloud chambers and cryogenics that relate to the MINOS and NOvA neutrino experiments as well as the Dark Matter and cosmic ray experiments. You will join the lab staff, on-site physicists, and three high school teachers. Positions are paid for 8 weeks starting mid-June, and can include housing if needed. Visit www.soudan.umn.edu and contact Bill Miller miller@soudan.umn.edu to express your interest prior to 30 April 2008.
Tutor Needed
March 31, 2008We are looking for a tutor for PHYS 131. The work will happen during class, period 5A. If you are interested and can work at that time, please contact Arjendu.
IDSC 209 - A course in science writing for Spring 2008
February 25, 2008Interested in becoming a better science communicator? Wondering how writing practices differ from discipline to discipline? Eager to describe your scientific discoveries with effectiveness and style? Then our new course called Writing Science is just for you. We will explore how science is written for a variety of audiences – from scientific journals to the popular press. Through class discussions and opportunities for writing and speaking, we will exchange our science stories and create poster presentations and on-campus science journals.
IDSC 209 (that’s short for Interdisciplinary), Writing Science, is a sophomore priority course taught by Carol Rutz, Director of the Writing Program and Cindy Blaha, Physics & Astronomy Professor. It will be held 5th period in Olin 02. Feel free to call either Cindy (x4429) or Carol (x4082) with questions
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Trivia
Test your knowledge of physics and astronomy trivia to win valuable prizes!
Physics Fulbrights
September 24, 2012Answer to last week's trivia question: engineering associate at Medtronic. Sadly, no correct answers were submitted.
In the past five years, three physics majors have been Fulbright scholars. What were the three countries that these Fulbright scholars traveled to after graduation?
Please submit your answer (along with your name and e-mail address) to the envelope labeled Radiations trivia outside Melissa's office (Olin 325). From the correct answers submitted by Wednesday morning at 9 am, one respondent will be chosen at random to receive a prize.
How Well Did You Know the Class of 2012?
September 7, 2012Carleton physics majors from the Class of 2012 are attending graduate school in all of the following fields except one: architecture, astronomy, civil engineering, earth and planetary science, electrical engineering, law, mechanical engineering, marine science, physics. Which one is NOT a field being pursued by one of last year's physics graduates?
Please submit your answer (along with your name and e-mail address) to the envelope labelled Radiations trivia outside Melissa's office (Olin 325). From the correct answers submitted by Wednesday morning at 9 am, one respondent will be chosen at random to receive a prize.
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