Paul Rugheimer

Paul Rugheimer serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physics at Montana State University's College of Letters & Science. He holds a Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Wisconsin-Madison (2004) with expertise in experimental condensed matter physics and surface science.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 2004. Dissertation: Film growth and Surface Diffusion (condensed matter)

His research centers on thin film growth mechanisms, vacuum science instrumentation, and optical techniques including holography. Experimental work focuses on magnetic anisotropy in transition metal alloy thin films and interdisciplinary applications at the physics-biology interface. Current investigations examine surface diffusion phenomena and thin film fabrication methods.

Publication trends from 2009-2013 reveal concentrated work on magnetic properties of Fe-Zn and Fe-Ga thin films, with methodology spanning materials synthesis, structural characterization, and magnetic measurements. The 2009 bacterial immobilization study demonstrates cross-disciplinary application of surface physics techniques.

Awards:

• CLS Outstanding Teaching Award (2022)
• Merit Award - NTT Bargaining Agreement Award (2021)

Dr. Rugheimer maintains active K-12 engagement through magnetism demonstrations at Morning Star Elementary (2012-2025), robotics mentorship at Sacajawea Middle School (2018-2024), and science demonstration leadership at multiple Bozeman-area schools. His teaching portfolio emphasizes developing physical intuition in undergraduate physics education through courses like Physics I-III.