Dr. Kausik Das was selected as a 2023-24 fellow with the Kavli Institute for Theoretical Physics at the University of California, Santa Barbara. The professor of physics and director of the Center for Student Excellence with UMES’ School of Agricultural and Natural Sciences will visit the institute this summer where he will “explore and develop collaborative designs for cutting-edge undergraduate research projects and to integrate remote labs at UMES.”
Supported primarily by the National Science Foundation, the institute is among the most renowned in the world for theoretical physics. It brings a diverse group of scientists in physics and related fields together “fostering an environment for listening and considering new ideas” on topics at the forefront of theoretical science.
In its 44-year history, the institute has been directed by numerous Nobel Prize laureates. Lars Bildsten, an astrophysicist known for his work on supernovae and white dwarfs, is the institute’s current director who will serve as Das’ scientific liaison.
“It’s an honor to be selected as a fellow of one of the most renowned institutes of physics in the world,” Das said. “This past summer, I had a short but intense visit to KITP, where I interacted with highly regarded researchers and faculty members there and at UCSB. Physics Nobel Laureate Professor David Gross, who I met and had a long discussion with, suggested that I return to present a colloquium to share success stories of undergraduate research students in my lab at UMES to inspire others.”
UCSB’s Director for the Center for Innovative Teaching, Research and Learning Dr. Linda Adler-Kassner, Das said, also suggested that he recount these meaningful stories of minority student success through a joint UCSB and FITP seminar series that the media would be invited to.
In addition, a lab visit at UCSB with Professor of Physics and Biomolecular Science & Engineering Dr. Deborah Fygenson resulted in a discussion about ways to design and integrate web-based remote controlled labs in undergraduate physics labs at UMES. Plans are also in the works, Das said, for the design of a modular undergraduate research project by incorporating DNA nanostar condensation into students’ research experience.
“Dr. Das’ teaching and research has always been totally focused on student excellence. He has mentored many students who have been very successful,” said Dr. Moses T. Kairo, dean of UMES’ School of Agricultural and Natural Sciences. “We are extremely excited and proud that he was appointed a fellow of the Kavli Institute. I have no doubt that his experiences as a fellow of the institute will translate to even greater transformation of our academy for even greater benefits and positive impacts on our students.”
Gail Stephens, agricultural communications, University of Maryland Eastern Shore, School of Agricultural and Natural Sciences, UMES Extension, 410-621-3850, gcstephens@umes.edu
