CHAIR’S MESSAGE
To the UCLA Physics and Astronomy Community,
It is my privilege to serve as Chair of the UCLA Department of Physics and Astronomy. This is a special department. One where every member of the community — faculty, staff, and students — is dedicated to furthering our mission of excellence in cutting-edge research and educating the next generation of leading scientists.
In this issue of Reflections, you will be introduced to fantastically interesting projects across a range of disciplines. We have an expanded layout on the paradigm-shifting window to our universe opened by the successful launch of, and first data from, the James Webb Space Telescope. Its impact cannot be overstated; as you will see, the research groups of no less than seven of our faculty are making observations further back in time, with improved resolution, and containing more information than previously possible.
While some researchers are looking up at the oldest galaxies to understand the origins of our universe, others are looking
down at matter and energy on a quantum level to expand our understanding of the natural world. Indeed, our work in quantum science and engineering is part of a larger effort being put forward by UCLA and the state of California.
In January of 2024, Governor Newsom announced the creation of the UCLA Research Park, at the location of the former Westside Pavilion. Joining the Governor in that announcement were UC President Michael Drake, UCLA Chancellor Gene
Block, Dean of Physical Sciences Miguel García-Garibay, and Professor of Physics Eric Hudson. In this issue, we highlight the department’s group in Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO), that will be among those expanding their research into the innovation hub, as well as the new self-supporting professional degree program, the Master in Quantum Science and Technology. This is an area that promises to change the face of physics, technology, and indeed human society as a whole. Next year, we will take a more expansive look at the Center for Quantum Science and Engineering and all its activities.
Also in this issue, we mark the occasion of Nobel Laureate Professor Andrea Ghez’s trip to Stockholm to accept her Nobel Prize Gold Medal with some unforgettable images from that historic event.
Of course, our department is about much more than cutting-edge research. Central to our mission is a dedication to nurturing a vibrant learning environment for all of our students. Through rigorous coursework, hands-on research experience, and mentorship from world-class faculty, the next generation of physicists are empowered to become leaders in academia, industry, and beyond. Our unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion goes hand in hand with that mission; every student deserves the opportunity to thrive and succeed in our community.
Finally, I want to thank the countless members of the extended UCLA Physics and Astronomy community. You play a key role in making these opportunities possible and we are deeply grateful for your support.