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Physics

Driving smaller, faster and greener technology with quantum materials

Physicist Ethan Minot and his laboratory are unlocking the potential of quantum materials to revolutionize technology. Their groundbreaking research is not only pushing the boundaries of science but also paving the way for student careers in the tech industry.

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Student Success

Black holes devour light — except when they create it, finds physics undergrad

When physics senior Phia Morton flew to Italy to do research, she couldn’t have imagined what she’d find hidden in the stars: the first strong candidate of a black hole merger emitting light. This discovery deepens knowledge on the cosmic structures and may even give a new opinion on how quickly the universe is expanding.

Sullivan Bailey-Darland in front of an urban backdrop.
Students

A ‘limitless degree’: Physics senior pushes the boundaries of his field

How does DNA move? How do cells communicate with each other? When it comes to these questions, it’s easy to think of molecular biologists behind the words. But as physics and mathematics senior Sullivan “Sully” Bailey-Darland knows, there are many more voices asking.

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Research

A sustainable future: How materials science can make the planet cleaner

For many OSU materials scientists, fighting climate change means finding cleaner energy sources, developing sustainable alternatives to wasteful industry processes, and drawing on unconventional means to reduce the pollution already in the environment.

Oregon State physics graduate with daughter amid tulips.
Students

From a construction job to Hewlett Packard, a physics major takes an unconventional path to reach his goals

Rohal Kakepoto valued the expertise of the faculty and the intimate and supportive atmosphere of the physics department. Like many of Oregon State physics graduates, Kakepoto landed a job as an engineer at Hewlett Packard in Corvallis, which he will start right before graduation.

Students use a variety of tools to conduct their summer research.
Students

Summer fellowships awarded to exceptional science students

The College of Science is proud to announce that 41 science students have received summer undergraduate research awards.

Warren Washington in office space
Alumni and Friends

Eminent climate scientist wins Lifetime Achievement in Science Award

Pioneering climate scientist and alumnus Warren Washington to present the 2019 Distinguished Lecture on October 11, 2019.

Ryan Tollefsen in front of Kidder Hall
Students

Goldwater scholar is “a physicist to his fingertips”

Honors physics and mathematics student Ryan Tollefsen received a 2019 Goldwater award. He was one of four OSU students selected for the prestigious award.

Isabella Karabinas in front of shrubbery
Students

Physics, mathematics and biochemistry students named Goldwater Scholars

College of Science launches three of four OSU winners of the prestigious 2019 Goldwater Scholarship.

students analyzing beakers in lab
Students

Nearly 40 students win 2018 SURE Science awards

The College of Science awarded 38 SURE Science awards of $5,500 to each student to conduct summer research in 2018.