Department Faculty and Staff

Douglas N. Armstead

Assistant Professor

Phone: (724) 946-7201
Office: 124 Hoyt Science Center
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Dr. Armstead received his doctorate from the University of Maryland.  He specializes in non-linear dynamics; current research interests include simulating negative index of refraction materials, using light to analyze structures formed from milk proteins, simulating and analyzing circuit malfunction, and studying billiard dynamics to understand the limitations of computer simulations and as a tool for understanding complex systems.  He is the advisor for the Westminster College chapter of the Society of Physics Students. 

 

Craig L. Caylor

Associate Professor, Chair

Phone: (724) 946-7202
Office: 125 Hoyt Science Center
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Dr. Caylor received his doctorate from Cornell University. His current research interests are primarily in the areas of fluid dynamics, complex fluids, and physics education. 

 

 

Thomas E. Oberst

Assistant Professor

Phone: (724) 946-7204
Office: 121 Hoyt Science Center
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Dr. Oberst specializes in astronomy and astrophysics. His current research involves the construction of infrared spectrometers for studying star formation. He has observed at national telescopes on Mauna Kea, Hawaii and at the South Pole, Antarctica. His future plans include upgrading Westminster’s observatory for automated observing and wide-field astronomical surveys.



Dr. Wehner

Visiting Assistant Professor

Phone: (724) 946-7871
Office: 123 Hoyt Science Center
E-mail

Dr. Wehner recieved his doctorate from Utah State University and he specializes in general relativity and field theory.





Mary P. Pitman

Secretary

Phone: (724) 946-7200
Office: 120 Hoyt Science Center
E-mail

Mary Pitman is also the secretary for the Chemistry Department.


Professors Emeriti

William L. Johnson

Professor Emeritus

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Dr. Johnson received his doctorate from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School of Monterey, California.  He was a pioneer in computer electronics and has worked with N.A.S.A. on the zero-gravity behavior of fluids.  Dr. Johnson was selected to receive Westminster College's Distinguished Faculty Award in 2007. 

G. Samuel Lightner

Professor Emeritus

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Dr. Lightner received his doctorate from the University of Virginia.  He specializes in the areas of astronomy, meteorology, and physics education. Although he is retired he is vice-president of the Plasma and Fusion area for the Contemporary Physics Education Project .  He continues to regularly lead workshops for high school physics teachers.

Floyd J. Zehr

Professor Emeritus

Phone: (724) 946-7203
Office: 123 Hoyt Science Center
E-mail

Dr. Zehr received his doctorate from Syracuse University.   Dr. Zehr was selected to receive Westminster College's Distinguished Faculty Award in 1999.  He currently enjoying retirement with his wife Pearl.