Tim Stelzer

Professor Tim Stelzer is a Physics Education Professor at the University of Illinois, Department of Physics. He specializes in high-energy particle theory and innovative physics education. His research includes computational methods like MadGraph, and educational tools such as IOLab, SmartPhysics, and i>clicker. He has taught courses like PHYS 211 and 212 since 2005, consistently ranked as an excellent teacher.

Education:

• Bachelor's in Physics, St. John's University (1988)
• Ph.D. in Physics, University of Wisconsin-Madison (1993)

Research Interests: High-energy physics (Standard Model, top-quark studies), physics education technology, mastery-based learning, and interactive media. Notable contributions include MadGraph software for particle physics simulations and IOLab wireless lab systems.

Recent Article Trends: Focus on improving physics education through pre-lectures, teacher professional development, and socio-emotional aspects of learning. Projects emphasize student-centered approaches and AI-driven assessment tools.

Scientific Awards:

• Rose Award for Excellence in Teaching (2015)
• APS Excellence in Education Award (2013)
• Arnold Nordsieck Award (2011)
• University of Illinois Distinguished Teacher-Scholar (2009)

Grants & Affiliations: Led a $2.6M IPaSS grant for high school physics education partnerships. Active in the Physics Education Research Group and developed tools like SmartPhysics and IOLab to enhance STEM learning.