Physics & Astronomy Division

Who are we?

Physics and Astronomy Division Chair: Carol Hood, California State University – San Bernardino

In 1985, a disciplinary council in physics and astronomy became a formal part of CUR. Physicists Jim Cederberg, David Peak, and John Van Zytveld were responsible for bringing physics to CUR. It was a critical crossroads in the development of CUR as we know it today. The CUR Physics and Astronomy Division has been, and remains, very active in supporting research with undergraduates. 

The goals of the Physics and Astronomy Division, outlined below, are accomplished by offering a wide variety of programs, awards, and services to our members that are a part of a CUR-wide effort to promote UR. The division advances the mission of CUR by focusing on UR issues in areas of physics and astronomy. The goals of the division are to support UR in physics and astronomy by:

  • Gathering and sharing information about UR funding
  • Gathering and sharing information about curricular opportunities
  • Identifying and delivering support services to faculty at both early and advanced career stages as well as departments
  • Encouraging and financially supporting undergraduates conducting research and disseminating their work

Division Activities

The Physics and Astronomy Division of the Council on Undergraduate Research supports research in our discipline. To support these activities, we provide networking opportunities, activities, and resources for faculty, students, and others. Some of our active resources are provided below:

  • Awards: The division offers funding and recognition to both undergraduate researchers and faculty mentors.
  • Communications: The following avenues can be used to communicate with CUR Physics and Astronomy Division councilors, members of the division, and/or other people interested in UR in physics and astronomy.
  • Physics/Astronomy Research Vignettes: A collection of vignettes from CUR Physics and Astronomy members who have implemented UR across the curriculum. 
  • Grant and Tenure Portfolio Reviews (a version of a mentoring service): Experienced faculty helping others along. Contact Beth Cunningham, and she will match you with someone close to your interested, with whom you can discuss job applications, grant applications, tenure documents, or other professional mentoring needs. 
  • American Institute of Physics Affiliated Society: CUR’s Physics and Astronomy Division is an AIP Affiliated Society. Division members qualify for reduced subscription prices on AIP’s magazines and journals.
    • Experienced faculty helping others along