Fred Gittes

Fred Gittes is a Clinical Professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Washington State University, part of the College of Arts and Sciences. He is actively involved in both undergraduate and graduate education, teaching a broad range of physics courses including honors physics, electromagnetism, modern physics, and biological physics. His research lies at the intersection of statistical physics, biophysics, and theoretical methods in physics.

His research interests include:

• Statistical Physics and Thermodynamics
• Biological Physics and Micromanipulation
• Optical Trapping and Laser-Based Techniques
• Differential Geometry and Gauge Theory in Physical Systems
• Mechanics of Biological Motors and Polymers

His recent publications reflect a continued interest in theoretical modeling of physical phenomena, especially in biological contexts. He has developed methods in microscopy and optical trapping, and has explored the use of differential forms in classical physics. His work has been highlighted by Nature Physics and recognized with the JOSA Spotlight on Optics. A recurring theme in his research is the use of thermal fluctuations to extract mechanical properties of soft and biological materials.

Notable scientific recognitions include:

• Excellence in Teaching by a Clinical Faculty Member (2020 Faculty Teaching Award)
• Highlighted by Nature Physics for his 2018 paper on deriving Einstein's results from the Jarzynski equality
• Selected for JOSA’s Spotlight on Optics distinction for work on nonconservative forces in optical traps

Fred Gittes has mentored several award-winning undergraduate students, including multiple recipients of the Four Outstanding Senior Award who cited him as their most influential teacher. He has delivered numerous colloquia on topics ranging from falling cats and gauge theory to the physics of blood spatter and nuclear radiation in popular culture. His teaching includes graduate-level courses in thermal physics, electrodynamics, and differential geometry, as well as innovative interdisciplinary offerings.