Scott Franklin is a Professor in the School of Physics and Astronomy at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), part of the College of Science. He holds a BA from the University of Chicago and a Ph.D. from the University of Texas. His research focuses on soft condensed matter—particularly geometrically cohesive granular materials—and physics education, including diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. He received the prestigious American Physical Society Fellowship in 2020, recognizing his contributions to physics research and education. His teaching portfolio includes courses such as Physics Research I, Mathematical Methods in Physics, and Chaotic Dynamics. He actively contributes to STEM education research through the Physics Education Research Group at RIT, which emphasizes equitable learning opportunities and graduate admissions strategies. Franklin’s work spans experimental and theoretical studies, including projects funded by the NSF and collaborations on quantum education and metacognitive tools for first-year STEM students. Franklin has published extensively in journals like American Journal of Physics , Physical Review E , and Soft Matter . His research bridges material science and education, addressing topics from granular packing dynamics to fostering empathy in academic spaces. He also leads grant-funded initiatives to improve retention among deaf/hard-of-hearing and first-generation STEM students through metacognitive interventions. Grants & Awards: NSF Building Capacity in STEM Education Research Grant ($587,000), RIT’s Faculty Development Award Labs & Teams: Co-leads the Professional Development for Emerging Education Researchers (PEER) program and collaborates with the RIT PER Group Future Work: Expanding quantum education initiatives and studying diversity in graduate admissions through the Physics GRE requirements project








