M University of Minnesota
CONTACT INFORMATION
School of Physics & Astronomy
116 Church Street S.E.
Minneapolis, MN, 55455
Phone: 612-624-7375
Fax: 612-624-4578
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Outreach

Jim Kakalios in a plastic bag
Physics Force members Jon Anderson and Nancy Bresnahan prepare Professor Jim Kakalios for an air pressure demonstration
photo by Jonathan Chapman
Academia is sometimes referred to as an "ivory tower," because it is thought of as isolated and impenetrable fortress by the outside world. This flies in the face of the mission of both the University of Minnesota and the School of Physics and Astronomy. Any institution of higher learning needs to draw upon the outside world as a source for inspiration (not to mention students!) and give back by reaching out to instruct and participate in the larger community.

Here are a few examples of the way in which the School of Physics and Astronomy reaches out to the surrounding world:

  • The Physics Force is a group of Physics and Astronomy professors and high school teachers who put on a physics circus of dynamic and entertaining demonstrations for area school children and the general public.

  • Once a year, we hold a Physics Open House to enable undergraduates to make an informed decision on a major by providing information on the physics major program, why physics is fun, and to demonstrate the broad range of employment options available to physics graduates, whether they go on to graduate school or not.

  • Research Opportunities for Undergraduates (REU) is a ten-week summer research program for physics undergraduates open to students from around the country as well as Minnesota.

  • Research Experience for Teachers (RET)is a program designed to help high school teachers participate in cutting edge physics with our research groups.

  • QuarkNet is a five-day workshop for physical science teachers designed to help bring the world of particle physics into high schools.

  • Soudan Mine Tour The Soudan State Park Underground Mine tour includes a stop at the MINOS far dector.

Related Links

Aurora Borealis in Minnesota