J. Thomas Dickinson

J. Thomas Dickinson is a Regents Professor of Physics and the Paul A. Anderson Professor of Physics and Materials Science at Washington State University, affiliated with the Department of Physics and Astronomy within the College of Arts and Sciences. He has maintained a long and distinguished career at WSU since 1968, contributing significantly to research, teaching, and academic leadership.

His research focuses on materials physics, surface science, and optical physics, particularly in the areas of laser ablation and desorption in dielectrics and polymers, laser-based materials analysis, and nano-tribology using scanning tunneling and atomic force microscopy. His work bridges fundamental physical phenomena with practical applications in materials engineering and chemistry.

With over 330 technical publications and 16 invited Gordon Conference presentations, Dickinson has established himself as a leading figure in his fields. His research has been widely recognized through numerous talks and leadership roles in international conferences on fracture, tribology, and laser-materials interactions.

Among his many honors are being named a Fellow of the American Physical Society and the American Vacuum Society, receiving the President’s Faculty Excellence Award in Research, the Westinghouse Faculty Award, and the Distinguished Alumni Award from Western Michigan University. He holds the prestigious titles of Regents Professor and Paul A. Anderson Professor at WSU.

He is an active member of the WSU Teaching Academy, where he works to enhance undergraduate research opportunities. Though specific advisees are not listed, his extensive publication record and leadership roles suggest a strong mentorship presence. He has also chaired or co-chaired several major international scientific meetings.

His laboratory and research group are involved in advanced studies of surface modification, deformation physics, and tribochemical processes, often leveraging laser and scanning probe techniques. He contributes to interdisciplinary programs including the Institute for Shock Physics and the Materials Science and Engineering Program at WSU.