معرفی
Dwight L. Whitaker is a Professor of Physics and Astronomy at Pomona College, where he has been a faculty member since 2007. He is based in the Department of Physics and Astronomy within the College of Arts and Sciences, conducting experimental research at the intersection of quantum physics and biological mechanics.
Education:
- Ph.D., Brown University
- Master of Science, Brown University
- Bachelor of Science, University of Connecticut
His research focuses on two principal areas: the creation and study of Bose-Einstein condensates (BECs) of rubidium-87 atoms using all-optical traps formed by focused CO2 lasers, and the biomechanics of ultra-fast biological movements in plants and fungi. In his BEC research, he and his undergraduate students aim to develop simple, scalable methods for forming large condensates and have built an affordable imaging system using amateur astronomy CCD cameras. His biological studies, conducted in collaboration with Joan Edwards at Williams College, investigate sub-millisecond movements to understand how plant morphology and physical properties enable such rapid motion.
While no recent publications are listed in the provided text, his work spans experimental atomic physics, low-temperature quantum phenomena, and high-speed biological imaging, indicating a strong interdisciplinary approach combining precision instrumentation with fundamental scientific inquiry.
Scientific Awards:
- No awards listed in the provided text.
Whitaker is actively involved in mentoring undergraduate researchers in his lab, integrating students directly into hands-on experimental projects. He teaches courses including Atomic & Nuclear Physics, Independent Research in Physics, and General Physics with Lab, emphasizing experiential learning. His lab, located in Estella Laboratory, supports research in quantum condensation and high-speed biological imaging, reflecting a dual focus on cutting-edge physics and interdisciplinary life science applications.
