Eric Gansen

Eric Gansen is a Professor of Physics at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse (UW-L), where he has served since 2008, advancing through ranks from Assistant (2008-2011) to Associate (2012-2016) before his current role. His research focuses on semiconductor nanostructures and quantum optics, particularly in developing novel quantum-dot-based single-photon detectors and quantum-well-based optical switches. He holds a B.S. in Physics and Mathematics from UW-L (1997), an M.S. in Optics from the University of Rochester (1998), and a Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Iowa (2004).

His teaching spans undergraduate and graduate physics courses, including

• PHY 103/104 Fundamental Physics
• PHY 203/204 General Physics
• PHY 306 Modern Physics
• PHY 308 Optics
• PHY 476 Advanced Optics

His research has been funded by agencies such as the National Research Council, Office of Naval Research, and DARPA, with notable work at NIST (2015-2017) on quantum technologies. His publications span topics like quantum dot detectors, ultrafast optical switching, and semiconductor material characterization.

While no specific awards are listed, his extensive research output reflects recognition in photonics and semiconductor physics. His advising and grant activities are embedded in his long-term academic contributions, though specific grants or student names are not detailed in the provided text. His work bridges theoretical and applied aspects of quantum materials, contributing to both fundamental understanding and practical device development.