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Our Department

Front entrance of Weniger Hall

Welcome to physics at Oregon State

Our department has strong research programs in optics and condensed matter physics and an emerging emphasis on biophysics. Experimental, theoretical, and computational research seeks to understand the physics and applications of new materials and to answer fundamental questions about the dynamical behavior of biological and nanoscale systems.

As home of the Paradigms in Physics upper-division curriculum project and an expanding program of reform in the lower-division service courses, our department has a strong culture of shared responsibility for curriculum development supported by physics education research. We particularly value collaborative interdisciplinary projects that span departments within the College of Science and with other colleges, especially Engineering and Education.

Connect with physics

Diversity and inclusion

The Department of Physics is dedicated to maintaining a welcoming and inclusive environment for our students, faculty and staff. Diversity in people, ideas and perspectives promote excellence and we are committed to actively seeking out ways to achieve equal representation within our department.

Learn more about our commitment to diversity 

Outreach and engagement

Our department has a robust array of outreach and engagement opportunities designed to keep physicists connected with the community, and inspire the community's interest in physics.

Outreach and engagement 

Make a gift

Gift giving supports crucial components of physics education that significantly impact the experiences of our students. Consider making a tax-deductible donation to enhance physics for all students.

Make a gift 

Research on physics subjects

If you're interested in recruiting physics students or instructors for research projects, or in studying physics courses or instruction at Oregon State University, please review our departmental policy.