Laura Clarke

Laura Clarke is the Alumni Distinguished Undergraduate Professor in the Department of Physics at NC State University, part of the College of Sciences. She joined NC State in 2003 as an Assistant Professor after completing her PhD at the University of Oregon and postdoctoral work at Dartmouth College and the University of Colorado.

Her research focuses on nanostructured materials, particularly observing molecular motion in self-assembled monolayers and polymers, as well as photothermal heating applications in polymer nanocomposites. Key areas include nanoscale heat transport, degradation of plastics, and sustainable material processing.

Clarke leads the Clarke Lab, which explores material science innovations addressing environmental challenges like plastic contamination. She also develops hands-on physics education tools, such as the PY456 Senior Design course for undergraduates.

• Education: PhD in Physics (University of Oregon, 1998)
• Awards: Wolff-Reichert Award (2023) for enhancing physics education through sustainable lab experiences.

Her recent work includes advancements in melt electrospinning, photothermal-driven polymer degradation, and nanocomposite design. The Clarke Lab emphasizes scalable production of nanofibers and environmentally responsible material processing strategies.