Department of Physics

Faculty

Distinguished Teaching Professor Emeritus
Bruce B. Marsh Ph.D., University of Rochester

Professors Emeriti
Mohammad Sajjad Alam, Ph.D., Indiana University
Ariel Caticha, Ph.D., California Institute of Technology
Akira Inomata, Ph.D., Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
John C. Kimball, Ph.D., University of Chicago
Laura M. Roth, Ph.D., Radcliffe College
Wilfried W. Scholz, Ph.D., University of Freiburg (Germany)

Professors
Kevin Knuth, Ph.D., University of Minnesota
Tung-Sheng Kuan, Ph.D., Cornell University 
William A. Lanford, Ph.D., University of Rochester
Carolyn MacDonald, Ph.D., Harvard University

Associate Professors
Keith Earle, Ph.D., Cornell University (Department Chair)
Jesse A. Ernst, Ph.D., University of Rochester
Philip Goyal, Ph.D., Trinity College, Cambridge
Vivek Jain, Ph.D., University of Hawaii 
Alexander Khmaladze, Ph.D., University of South Florida
Cecilia Levy, Ph.D., University of Muenster
Oleg Lunin, Ph.D., Ohio State University
Jonathan Petruccelli, Ph.D., University of Rochester
Daniel G. Robins, Ph.D., University of Chicago
Matthew Szydagis, Ph.D., University of Chicago

Visiting Assistant Professor
Anna Sharikova, Ph.D., University of South Florida

Lecturers
Robert Schmitz, Ph.D., University at Albany, SUNY
Eric Woods, Ph.D., Harvard University

Adjuncts (estimated): 10
Teaching Assistants (estimated): 19

The Physics Department provides students a solid foundation in classical and modern physics. Physics majors obtain a theoretical background in classical mechanics, electromagnetic theory, quantum mechanics, and thermal physics. Laboratory classes develop skills in experimental techniques. Students select one of four concentrations for the B.S. in Physics:

General Physics:

General physics offers a well-rounded education in physics, covering fundamental principles and theories. The curriculum provides students with a strong background in physics and mathematics, thereby giving them analytical and problem-solving skills crucial for graduate studies in physics and related fields, as well as for scientific and technical careers in engineering, software development, systems analysis, etc.; complementing this degree with a M.S. in Education (Physics) opens teaching opportunities in schools (community colleges).

Computational Physics:

In general, physics problems are very difficult to solve exactly, which means that approximate solutions must be found. Computational physics is a discipline which focuses on the numerical solutions of complex physical problems. This requires a knowledge of the underlying mathematical and physical models as well as computational methods that will enable computers to reach precise and accurate solutions in reasonable periods of time. Students will develop skills applicable to much in-demand careers in data science and to graduate studies in fields such as physics, informatics and computer science.

Astronomy and Particle Astrophysics:

Humans have made astronomical observations for millennia, and advances in the 20th century expanded the techniques we use. In addition to optical telescopes, we study the Universe using radio waves, infrared and ultraviolet waves, X-rays, gamma rays, neutrinos, cosmic rays, and gravitational waves; all require complex detection techniques, some of which are borrowed from the field of particle physics. This interdisciplinary concentration combines the signature strengths of our faculty members who do research in astronomy and particle astrophysics, and will give students a “leg up” when applying to graduate studies in physics, astronomy or related fields, or applying for jobs related to these activities, e.g., at NASA or their sub-contractors, etc.

Bio-imaging:

Bio-imaging is a state-of-the-art field that combines physics (particularly optics) and medical physics and applies it to biological processes. A concentration in bio-imaging is a completely new opportunity that the department is offering, which is not readily available elsewhere; it relies on the strengths of our faculty who are doing research in optics, biophysics and medical imaging techniques. This concentration will: allow students to be more attractive to employers in medical physics related jobs and biotech industry; will be beneficial to those who are considering going to graduate school to specialize in biophysics or medical physics; and may also help pre-med students trying to distinguish themselves from the standard biology path.

Courses in environmental science, space physics and astronomy bring broader physical concepts to the non-major.

Careers

Physics graduates work as scientists in research and development labs, engineering companies, medical centers. They become teachers, technical writers, data analysts and computer software and hardware engineers. They continue their education in physics, other sciences or mathematics, and education or medicine. Opportunities abound, and the range of typical career choices is surprisingly varied. More information is available at the American Physical Society website.

Physics majors, minors, or intended majors are strongly encouraged to visit the Physics office to be assigned a Physics faculty advisor.

Course Progression Restrictions

To register for APHY 320 or 410, students must complete APHY 235 or AMAT 314 with a C or better.  To register for APHY 335Z, 340 or 470, 350 or 480, 440, 450, and 460, students must complete either APHY 235, or both AMAT 314 and 315, with a C or better. 

Students must complete APHY 240 with a C or better to register for APHY 320 or 410, 340 or 470, and 440. Students must complete APHY 250 with a C or better to register for APHY 335Z, 350 or 480, 450, and 460.

Degree Requirements for the Major in Physics

B.S.:

Combined major and minor sequence consisting of a minimum of 69 - 74 credits, depending on Concentration

Required core courses:
(minimum 49 credits)

Introductory Physics Sequence:

  • Select one of the following options:
    • APHY 140 Physics I: Mechanics (3)
    • TPHY 141 Honors Physics I: Mechanics (3)
    • APHY 142 Physics I: Advanced Mechanics
  • Select one of the following options:
    • APHY 150 Physics II: Electromagnetism (3)
    • TPHY 151 Honors Physics II: Electromagnetism (3)
    • APHY 152 Physics II: Advanced Electromagnetism (3)
  • APHY 240 Physics III: Structure of Matter (3)

Lab sequence for introductory courses:

  • APHY 145 Physics Lab I (1) or APHY 106 General Physics Lab I (1)
  • APHY 155 Physics Lab II (1) or APHY 109 General Physics Lab II (1)
  • APHY 245 Physics Lab III (1)

Higher level physics courses:

Select one of the following options:

  • APHY 235 Mathematics in Physics (3)
  • AMAT 314 Analysis for Applications I (3) and AMAT 315 Analysis for Applications II (3) 

Required courses:

  • APHY 250 Physics IV: Waves (3),
  • APHY 410 Classical Mechanics (3)
  • APHY 335Z Advanced Physics Lab (3)
  • APHY 470 Electromagnetism I: Statics (3)
  • APHY 440 Quantum Physics I (3)
  • APHY 460 Thermodynamics and Statistical Physics (3)

Chemistry:

Select one of the following Options:

  • ACHM 115 General Chemistry I and Lab (4)
  • ACHM 120 General Chemistry I (3) and ACHM 124 General Chemistry I Lab (1)
  • TCHM 130 Honors General Chemistry and ACHM 124 General Chemistry I Lab (1)
  • TCHM 135 Advanced General Chemistry I and Lab (4)

Calculus sequence:

  • Choose one of the following options:
    • AMAT 112 Calculus I (4) and AMAT 113 Calculus II (4)
    • TMAT 118 Honors Calculus I (4) and TMAT 119 Honors Calculus II (4)
    • AMAT 101 Algebra and Calculus I (3) and AMAT 111 Algebra and Calculus II (4)and AMAT 113 Calculus II (4)
  • AMAT 214 Calculus of Several Variables (4)

Select one concentration:

Irrespective of their chosen concentration, students must take at least one physics course numbered 300 or higher and appended with a Y suffix, e.g. 415Y, 426Y, 430Y, etc.

General Concentration:
(minimum 20 credits)

  • APHY 480 Electromagnetism II: Electrodynamics (3)
  • APHY 450 Quantum Physics II (3)
  • Select one of the following Options:
    • ACHM 116 General Chemistry II and Lab (4)
    • ACHM 121 General Chemistry II (3) and ACHM125 General Chemistry II Lab (1)
    • TCHM 131 Advanced General Chemistry II (3) and ACHM 124 General Chemistry II Lab
    • TCHM 136 Advanced general Chemistry II and Lab (4)
  • Computer Course: APHY 277 Computers in Physics (4) or IECE/IECE 201 Introduction to Computer Science (4)
  • Select One Mathematics Elective:
    • AMAT 220 Linear Algebra (3)
    • AMAT 314 Analysis for Applications I (3)
    • AMAT 367 Discrete Probability (3)
    • AMAT 412 Complex Variables for Applications (3)

Computational Physics Concentration:
(minimum 22 credits)

  • Computer Course: APHY 277 Computers in Physics (4) or IECE/IECE 201 Introduction to Computer Science (4)
  • AMAT 220 Linear Algebra (3)
  • Select two courses from the following options:
    • APHY 449/449Y Introduction to Quantum Foundations and Quantum Information (3)
    • APHY 451/451Y Bayesian Data Analysis and Signal Processing (3)
    • APHY 477/477Y Computational Methods (3)
  • Select three courses from the following options:
    • IECE 333 System Fundamentals (4)
    • IECE 401 Numerical Methods (3)
    • IECE 410 Database Systems (3)
    • IECE 431 Data Mining (3)
    • IECE 436 Machine Learning (3)
    • APHY 353 Microprocessor Applications
    • APHY 415/415Y Electronics (3)
    • APHY 416 Electronics Projects (3)
    • APHY 433 Physics Measurements (3)
    • APHY 454 Microprocessor Applications Lab (3)
    • APHY 497/497Y Independent Study (3-4)
    • AMAT 367 Discrete Probability (3)

Astronomy & Particle Astrophysics Concentration:
(minimum 25 credits)

  • Computer Course: APHY 277 Computers in Physics (4) or IECE/IECE 201 Introduction to Computer Science (4)
  • AMAT 220 Linear Algebra (3)
  • Select four courses from the following options:
    • APHY 300 Introduction to Astrophysics (3)
    • APHY 426/426Y Introduction to Particle Physics (3)
    • APHY 443/443Y Introduction to Cosmology (3)
    • APHY 452/452Y Astro-Particle Physics (3)
    • APHY 468/468Y Particle Physics (3)
    • APHY 471/471Y Introduction to Neutrino Astronomy (3)
  • Select two courses from the following options (please note only one at 100 level):
    •  APHY 100 Contemporary Astronomy (3)
    • APHY 103 Exploration of Science (3)  
    • APHY 112 Star Systems (3)
    • APHY 409/409Y Math Models in Physics (3)
    • APHY 430/430Y Optics (3)
    • APHY 442 Introduction to GR (3)
    • APHY 458/458Y Physics of Radiation Detectors (3)
    • APHY 497/497Y Independent Study (3)

Bio-imaging Concentration:
(minimum 20 credits)

  • Computer Course: APHY 277 Computers in Physics (4) or IECE/IECE 201 Introduction to Computer Science (4)
  • Select one of the following Options:
    • ACHM 116 General Chemistry II and Lab (4)
    • ACHM 121 General Chemistry II (3) and ACHM125 General Chemistry II Lab (1)
    •  TCHM 131 Advanced General Chemistry II (3) and ACHM 124 General Chemistry II Lab 
    • TCHM 136 Advanced general Chemistry II and Lab (4)
  • Select four courses from the following options:
    •  APHY 404 Biophysics (3)
    • APHY 430/430Y Optics (3)
    • APHY 446/446Y Laser Physics and Applications (3)
    • APHY 448/448Y Medical Imaging (3)
    • APHY 458/458Y Physics of Radiation Detectors (3)
    • APHY 466Y X-Ray Optics, Analysis and Imaging (3)

Electronics & Computing Systems Concentration:
(minimum 46 credits)

  • Math Requirements:
    • AMAT 220 Linear Algebra (3)
    • AMAT 367 Discrete Probability (3) or IEGR 370 Applied Probability and Statistics for Engineers (3)
  • Physics Requirements:
    • APHY 480 Electromagnetism II: Electrodynamics (3)
    • APHY 449Y Quantum Information, Computation, and Foundations (3)
    • APHY 451Y Bayesian Data Analysis and Signal Processing (3)
    • APHY 477Y Computational Methods (3)
  • Electrical & Computer Engineering Requirements:
    • IECE/ICSI 201 Introduction to Computer Science (4)
    • IECE 231 Digital Systems (4)
    • IECE 240 Data Structures (4)
    • IECE 300 Introduction to Electronics (4)
    • IECE 332 Computer Organization and Programming (4)
    • IECE 334 Programming Hardware Systems (4)
    • IECE 371 Signals and Systems (4)

Honors Program

The honors program in physics is designed for outstanding students.
Students should apply for admission to the honors program before November 15 of the junior year.

The minimum requirements for admission are:

  • Completion of APHY 140 or APHY 142 or TPHY 141, APHY 150 or APHY 152 or TPHY 151, APHY 240, 250 or their equivalents;
  • An overall grade point average of 3.30;
  • A grade point average of 3.60 in physics courses required for the major;
  • Written recommendations from at least three faculty members, one of whom, preferably, should be from outside the Department of Physics.

Students in the program must maintain both a minimum grade point average of 3.30 overall and of 3.60 in physics courses taken to satisfy major requirements during the junior and senior years.

Students in the honors program are required to complete credits as follows: the 69-81 credits specified for the program in physics with one of four concentrations; 3 credits of Honors Seminar in Physics (APHY 498); and 3 credits of Research and/or Independent Study in Physics (APHY 497). The independent study must include an honors research project culminating in a written report by the end of the student’s last semester.

A Department Honors Committee will recommend an honors degree to the department faculty for its approval.

Combined B.S./M.S. Program

The combined B.S./M.S. program in physics provides an opportunity for students of recognized academic ability and educational maturity to fulfill integrated requirements of undergraduate and master’s degree programs at the beginning of the junior year. A carefully designed program can permit a student to earn the B.S. and M.S. degrees within nine semesters.

The combined program requires a minimum of 138 credits, of which at least 30 must be graduate credits. In qualifying for the B.S., students must meet all University and college requirements including the requirements of the undergraduate major described previously, the minimum 60-credit liberal arts and sciences requirement, general education requirements, and residency requirements. In qualifying for the M.S., students must meet all University and college requirements as outlined in the Graduate Bulletin, including completion of a minimum of 30 graduate credits and any other conditions such as a research seminar, thesis, comprehensive examination, professional experience, and residency requirements. Up to 12 graduate credits may be applied simultaneously to both the B.S. and M.S. programs.

Some substitution of graduate courses for undergraduate courses is possible upon approval by the advisor.

Students may apply to the Graduate Committee for admission to the combined degree program in physics at the beginning of their junior year or after the successful completion of 56 credits. A cumulative grade point average of 3.20 or higher and three supportive letters of recommendation from faculty are required.