Research
Faculty-led teams of graduate and undergraduate students take research in in exciting new directions using both experimental and computational approaches. Project topics are focused in the fields of astronomy and astrophysics, biophysics and condensed matter physics,
Our physicists actively contribute to cross-disciplinary work within the College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, especially within the molecular and cellular biophysics program. In addition, our professors work with the National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) in Boulder and National Renewable Energy Labs (NREL) in Golden to carry out collaborative research that has impact far and wide.
Our astronomers and astrophysicists utilize facilities and technology on campus including the historic Chamberlin Observatory housed in Observatory Park, adjacent to campus.
In the quest to make computers faster and more efficient, our researchers have been making exciting developments the field of spin-electronics, or "spintronics," controlling the natural spin of the electron to improve performance of modern and future electronic devices.
Biophysics research is elevated through interdisciplinary cross-talk between computational physicists, biologists and biochemists. Working in close proximity, our faculty is breaking new ground in biomedical discovery.
Student Research
Graduate Level
Graduate student participation in research enhances the strength and breadth of our discoveries by providing new and diverse perspectives that challenge long-held assumptions.
Master's and PhD majors work closely with faculty mentors both in the classroom and in the lab, serving as either teaching or research assistants.
Undergraduate Level
DU's College of Natural Sciences and Mathematics is dedicated to establishing a new norm by expanding summer research opportunities at the undergraduate level. Through grants from DU's Undergraduate Research Center and Colorado-Wyoming Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (CO-WY AMP), a number of summer research experiences are awarded to science and math majors each year.
Preparing Junior Investigators
DU's Undergraduate Research Center, run by faculty mentors from the Departments of Biological Sciences, Physics and Astronomy, and Psychology, guides undergraduates through the intricacies of high-level research and publication, approvals, travel, grants and funding, and proprietary property.
Creating Conduits for the Next Generation
Both undergraduate and graduate students have access to our innovative research facilities and productive faculty. In addition, we strive to provide students with opportunities to attend and present at top research conferences. Funding for research technology and student travel is typically supported by external grants or donations from our generous friends and alumni.