Physics Student-Faculty Research
At LVC, students have the opportunity to engage in research with our physics faculty. Professors in the department are experts in quantum information (Dr. Scott Walck and Dr. David Lyons), theoretical/computational nuclear physics (Dr. Dan Pitonyak), and laser modifications of glass (Dr. Keith Veenhuizen). In all three areas of research, students can work alongside faculty as paid research assistants during the summer. This work has culminated in presentations at national conferences and co-authored papers in peer-reviewed journals. These high-level research experiences are unique for students at a small college and help distinguish LVC physics majors when they embark on their career paths after graduation.
Quantum Information Theory
Students and faculty study the “quantum advantage” of entangled particles that can outperform the most powerful existing supercomputers.
Participating Faculty Members: Dr. David Lyons and Dr. Scott Walck
Computational Nuclear Physics
The goal of this research is to map out a 3D image of the internal structure of visible matter. Students write code in Python to compute high-energy particle collisions and analyze how models fit experimental data. This allows us to extract information on the elementary particles that make up objects like the proton.
Participating Faculty Member: Dr. Dan Pitonyak
Laser Modifications of Glass
The goal of this research is to fabricate crystals in glass using a laser as a heat source. Light can be guided through the crystals, making them potentially useful as optical interconnects in photonic integrated circuits. In addition, the crystals are characterized by various means (Raman spectroscopy, piezoresponse for microscopy, etc.) to gather information for practical applications and more fundamental studies.
Participating Faculty Member: Dr. Keith Veenhuizen
