James Buell

James Buell serves as Assistant Professor and Department Co-Chair in the Mathematics and Physics Department at Alfred State College, where he has been a faculty member since 2004. His teaching portfolio includes General Physics I and II, Physical Science Survey, and Astronomy courses, reflecting his dual expertise in physics and astronomy education.

Education:

• Ph.D in Physics with emphasis in Astronomy, University of Oklahoma, 1997
• M.S. in Physics, University of Oklahoma, 1992
• B.S. in Physics, Carnegie-Mellon University, 1983

Dr. Buell's research centers on stellar astrophysics, specifically investigating the evolution of red giants, nucleosynthesis processes responsible for elemental creation, and galactic chemical evolution. His work bridges theoretical models with observational data to understand how stars enrich the interstellar medium over cosmic time. This research has significant implications for cosmological models and the study of stellar populations across different galactic environments.

His publication record shows a sustained focus on low and intermediate mass stars, with recent work (2005) examining carbon and nitrogen abundance evolution in stellar yields, building upon his earlier research (1997) on planetary nebulae in globular clusters. These studies collectively advance our understanding of stellar life cycles and elemental distribution mechanisms in the Milky Way.

Scientific Awards:

• Alfred State Intentional Learner Grant (2001)

Dr. Buell has contributed to institutional governance through committee service including the CDR committee (2005-2006) and Faculty Workload Committee. His research has been supported by internal funding mechanisms such as the Intentional Learner Grant program, demonstrating institutional recognition of his scholarly work.

While specific laboratory facilities aren't detailed in available records, his research methodology likely involves computational astrophysics modeling and collaboration with international research groups, particularly evident through co-authorship with European astrophysicists on stellar yield studies.