Michael Wiescher

Michael Wiescher is the Freimann Professor of Physics at the University of Notre Dame, where he has been a faculty member since 1986. He currently serves as Director of the Joint Institute for Nuclear Astrophysics (JINA), a collaborative effort between the University of Chicago, Michigan State University, and the University of Notre Dame, and as Director of the Nuclear Science Laboratory (NSL) at Notre Dame. His academic career spans over three decades with progressive appointments from Assistant Professor to his current named professorship.

Dr. Wiescher received his PhD from the University of Münster, Germany in 1980, followed by postdoctoral work at Ohio State University and research positions at the University of Mainz and CalTech before joining Notre Dame. His educational background provided the foundation for his distinguished career in nuclear physics and astrophysics.

Wiescher's research focuses on nuclear astrophysics, particularly nucleosynthesis in stellar and explosive burning environments. His work encompasses low-energy experimental physics, reaction physics with both stable and radioactive beams, and more recently, the application of nuclear physics techniques to the analysis of cultural heritage artifacts. His experimental approach bridges fundamental nuclear physics with astrophysical phenomena, providing crucial data for understanding stellar evolution and elemental production in the universe.

An analysis of his publication record reveals a consistent focus on nuclear reaction rates critical to astrophysical processes, particularly the rp-process in X-ray bursts and the s-process in stellar helium burning. His work spans theoretical modeling, experimental measurement, and data analysis, with increasing interdisciplinary applications to cultural heritage science in recent years. The breadth of his research demonstrates both depth in nuclear astrophysics and adaptability to new scientific challenges.

Dr. Wiescher's significant contributions to science have been recognized with numerous prestigious awards:

• Heraeus Visiting Professor Award, University of Frankfurt (2016)
• Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (2010)
• Alexander v. Humboldt Award (2007)
• Presidential Award, University of Notre Dame (2004)
• Hans Bethe Prize of the Divisions of Nuclear Physics and Astrophysics of the American Physical Society (2003)
• Fellow of the American Physical Society (1998)

Throughout his career, Wiescher has been deeply involved in scientific leadership and service. He has chaired or served on numerous national and international committees including the Nuclear Science Advisory Committee to DOE and NSF, the APS Division of Nuclear Physics Executive Committee, and various facility advisory boards. His editorial work includes service on the boards of Physical Review C and Nuclear Physics A, where he has been Associate Editor since 2000. He has also edited significant volumes including "Nuclei in the Cosmos" and "Nuclear Astrophysics."

As Director of the Nuclear Science Laboratory at Notre Dame and the Joint Institute for Nuclear Astrophysics, Wiescher leads research teams investigating fundamental nuclear processes that power stars and create the elements. His laboratory facilities support both basic nuclear physics research and applications to astrophysics, with collaborations spanning multiple institutions and countries. The interdisciplinary nature of his work connects nuclear physics with astronomy, chemistry, and even cultural heritage studies.