From critical early developments in television technology to recent detection of cosmic phenomena in faraway galaxies, Washington State University physicists have been at the forefront of scientific education, innovation, and discovery for 100 years. This fall, the Department of Physics and Astronomy (P&A) will launch a yearlong series of free, public events to celebrate its long history of achievement and strong foundation for future success.

On Thursday, Sept. 5, J. Thomas Dickinson, Regents professor emeritus of physics, will talk about his more than 50-year career in teaching and research and his award-winning work in materials and surface physics. He will also discuss the significant research of the late Paul Anderson, WSU physics professor, 1931–63, whose innovations in ultra-high vacuum technology contributed to countless inventions and discoveries—from television to the cell phone to evidence of black holes colliding billions of light years away.

Dickinson’s presentation, which is part of the department’s Distinguished Colloquium Series, will begin at 4:10 p.m. in Webster Physical Sciences Building, room 17. It will be followed by dedication of the J. Thomas Dickinson Undergraduate Study and a community reception on Webster Mall.

“The depth and breadth of contributions made over the decades by this department to foundational science and technological progress is truly amazing, particularly since we’re a relatively small department compared to our peers,” said Brian Saam, professor and chair of the department. “Our students especially benefit from the cutting-edge work of P&A faculty and researchers, past and present, and the opportunities to be directly involved in research and education beyond the classroom.”

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