Aaron R. Warren

Aaron R. Warren is an Associate Professor of Physics at Purdue University Northwest (PNW), serving as Director of the Science Interdisciplinary Research Center (SIRC). He holds a Ph.D. in Physics from Rutgers University (2006) and a B.A. in triple majors (Physics, Mathematics, Astronomy) from Vassar College (2000). His research focuses on physics education research (PER) and computational astrophysics, including Bayesian-based teaching strategies and numerical simulations of binary neutron star mergers. He has received awards such as the PNW Teaching Incentive Award (2018) and the Goldwater Scholarship (1999).

Warren’s teaching emphasizes student-centered learning, integrating practical applications and critical thinking. Professional roles include PNW Physics Lab Coordinator (2007–2016), Astronomy Club Advisor (2011–2016), and dual credit program liaison. His grants include a $597,781 NSF IUSE grant (2017–2021) exploring lab activity effectiveness and COES-funded research on neutron star mergers.

Key research interests span PER methodologies, gravitational wave modeling, and student epistemology development. He collaborates on projects like ‘Mass Ejecta in Binary Neutron Mergers’ and ‘Quantitative Critical Thinking’ curricula. His work bridges theoretical physics with educational innovation, addressing both astrophysical phenomena and classroom pedagogy.