Department of Physics and Astronomy

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Faculty in USC College’s physics and astronomy department observe the most elemental forms of nature and how they behave in both inner and outer space. From electrons to galaxies, USC College scientists explore the structure of matter and how it organizes itself.

Encompassing both the smallest and the largest objects in the universe, departmental research interests are necessarily broad, ranging from atomic physics, elementary particle theory, quantum optics and laser physics to solar systems, self-organizing systems and stellar structure. Other prominent scholars study high-energy physics, and how the string theory resolves the contradiction between theories of general relativity and quantum mechanics.

A leading area for solar and space science research, Los Angeles offers many opportunities for student and faculty research. USC is home to the Space Sciences Center. College astronomers also work collaboratively with the Wilson Observatory, home of the one of the world’s largest interferometer telescopic arrays for stellar research; the Jet Propulsion Laboratory at the nearby California Institute of Technology; and the High Degree Helioseismology Network.

The distinguished faculty have won many awards over the years for both research and teaching, and include seven elected fellows of the American Physical Society, a National Academy of Science member and an IEEE fellow. The physics and astronomy department offers seven undergraduate majors and two minors. Graduate training opportunities include three master’s programs and a doctoral program.

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