Teaching

Phys 7:

Introduction to Classical Mechanics

A first course in mechanics for major-track students, Physics 7 is typically taken in the sophomore year and uses calculus and basic differential euqations in the study of kinematics and dynamics of point particles; conservation principles involving energy, momentum and angular momentum; rotational motion of rigid bodies, and oscillatory motion. Typical course text: Kleppner and Kolenkow
Taught: Fall 2024, Fall 2025

Phys 114:

Statistical Physics

A seminar-style course on thermodynamics and statistical mechanics, typically taken in the junior or senior year. Topics include: the statistical behavior of classical and quantum systems; temperature and entropy; equations of state; engines and refrigerators; statistical basis of thermodynamics; microcanonical, canonical, and grand canonical distributions; phase transitions; statistics of bosons and fermions; black body radiation; electronic and thermal properties of quantum liquids and solids. Course text: Blundell and Blundell
Taught: Spring 2025

Phys 64:

Techniques for Scientific Computing

A half-credit introduction to techniques in scientific computing used to visualize and analyze data such as plotting, curve fitting, solving equations, image analysis, Monte Carlo, and numerical integration. Students write programs in Python using commonly available scientific libraries. Typically taken by majors in the spring of their sophomore year.
Taught: Spring 2025

Phys 130:

General Relativity

An advanced elective, introducing Einstein's theory of General Relativity. Topics include: Newton’s gravitational theory, special relativity, Riemannian geometry, Einstein’s equations, the Schwarzschild solution, black holes and gravitational collapse, gravitational waves, and cosmology. Course text: Moore's "A General Relativity Workbook"
Taught: Fall 2025