Physics and Astronomy

Meet the new faculty of 2023

The breadth of scholarly interests and teaching expertise of the college’s newest faculty—from environmental humanities and many-body physics to economic globalization and the history of visual storytelling—enriches and expands the arts and sciences across the WSU system. Click “read more” to learn a little about each of these new faculty members. Arts & Humanities | […]

Wogmans commit $5M through estate plans to support STEM teaching and research

Growing up in Spokane during the 1940s and ‘50s, Dr. Ned Wogman enjoyed a perfectly happy childhood. There was tennis. There was music. A younger brother. One thing there wasn’t—enough money between parents Walfred and Lela Wogman to send Ned to college, no matter how many lawns were mowed and no matter how much snow […]

Million-dollar gift supports teaching at WSU

The tremendous impact made by professors Tom and Julie Lutz during 20-plus years at WSU and the legacy of Julie’s “full life” are now honored and celebrated in a professorship, a teaching excellence award, and a scholarship all bearing the Lutz name. During the 1960s and ‘70s in America, it was not altogether common to […]

Women physicists honored by Girl Scouts

Two faculty members in the Washington State University Department of Physics and Astronomy have been named Women of Distinction by the Girl Scouts of Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho.  The award was presented to Vivienne Baldassare and Anya Guy for their work contributing to the region through their professional endeavors, commitment to their community, and […]

Platinum really is forever

Scientists at WSU’s Institute for Shock Physics discovered something unexpected when they tested humankind’s most valuable metals to see how much pressure they could take. It turns out platinum is the only precious metal that retains its atomic structure when subjected to the kind of pressure found at the center of planet Earth, holding up […]

Unique imaging instrument expands WSU capabilities

An X‑ray beamline with a first-of-its-kind imaging source is being installed at Washington State University’s Dodgen Research Facility. The instrument, valued at over $1 million, will allow researchers to study a range of materials at nano- and atomic-scales. “It’s a very versatile instrument,” said Liane Moreau, a WSU assistant professor of chemistry. “It’s the only […]

Emeritus Society funding for undergraduate research

Through the WSU Emeritus Society, retired faculty members continue to support student success and empower experiential learning. In 2022, four arts & sciences students were selected to receive an undergraduate research or scholarship award from the society, along with funding to continue their independent projects.

Pullman Outstanding Seniors excel in diverse fields

An international researcher, a police cadet, a certified nursing assistant, and a young mother who speaks five languages (in addition to baby talk) are among the 24 College of Arts and Sciences students named Outstanding Seniors of 2022, all of whom are exemplary in their academic achievements, leadership, and service to the community. With roots […]

College honors for faculty, staff, students

Eighteen faculty, two staff, and five graduate students were honored for outstanding achievement at the 2022 College of Arts and Sciences Appreciation and Recognition Social in April. Professor Craig Hemmens, a national leader in ethical criminal justice practices, and Choong-Shik Yoo, a pioneer in static high pressure