BS in physics from Kansas State University (1996). At Kansas State, my research involved the characterization of the liquid-vapor surface of a critical binary liquid mixture using ellipsometry. The mixtures I studied were polymer solutions and ionic solutions.
PhD in experimental physics from Cornell University (2001). At Cornell, my research involved strategies for improving protein crystallization, emphasizing the role of impurities in limiting protein crystal quality. Primary experimental techniques included two-photon fluorescence microscopy and x-ray topography.
Current interests at Westminster include various aspects of liquid droplet behavior and magnetic materials, as well as the projects I am currently working on with my experimental physics class.
I am also the Academic Director of the Summer Science Splash Camp at Westminster College, a weeklong residential camp for middle school students.
I run ultramarathons.