James D. Wells

James D. Wells is a Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of Michigan, affiliated with the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts. His roles include leadership in theoretical physics and global security collaboration, particularly with European institutions. He holds positions such as Chair of the American Physical Society's Panel on Public Affairs (2014-2020) and has served as a staff member at CERN (2007-2013) and consultant to the Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron. His research focuses on high-energy physics, origins problems in fundamental physics, and scientific cooperation with Europe on security issues like nuclear arms control and integrated deterrence.

Education: PhD in Physics (University of Michigan, 1995), M.S. and B.S. in Physics (Brigham Young University).

Research interests span theoretical particle physics, including gauge symmetries, dark matter, and model building, alongside applications in global security. Recent work includes projects at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory on NATO-EU security and contributions to the International Linear Collider (ILC) vision. Awards include AAAS Fellowship (2019), Humboldt Award (2016), and Sloan Fellowship (2000-2004).

Publications emphasize collider physics, supersymmetry, and security applications. His work bridges fundamental theory and practical policy, with a focus on international collaboration mechanisms.