In a new study, a physics team at the University of Iowa designed a special microscope that can precisely study the interaction between light and matter that underpins electronic devices, such as those used in interior home lighting, smartphones, televisions and solar panels. The infrared cryo-microscope, designed by a team led by Thomas Folland, assistant professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, uses off-the shelf components to make precise measurements of different materials’ properties.

Thirteen Physics and Astronomy students presented posters at the Fall Undergraduate Research Festival (FURF) on Nov. 6 at the University Capitol Centre. The Office of Undergraduate Research hosts FURF, held in celebration and recognition of undergraduate researchers' contributions to research, scholarly, and creative work at the University of Iowa.

Three Physics and Astronomy students presented posters at the Spring Undergraduate Research Festival (SURF) on April 3 at the University Capitol Centre.

The journal Geoscientific Instrumentation, Methods and Data Systems recently published an article "Automated static magnetic cleanliness screening for the TRACERS small-satellite mission" by former undergraduate student Cole Dorman, who was in Associate Professor David Miles' group when he completed this work.

On February 15th, the department hosted the first annual Acevedo Poster Contest, giving participating students a chance to show how they used computing resources, tools, or techniques in their research.