Anthony J. Nicastro
Department of Physics
127 Boucher Hall
West Chester University
West Chester , PA 19382
610.436.2497 ANicastro@wcupa.edu
At the Physics Department at West Chester University, we are always looking for
talented and motivated students to take part in research projects. Students are able
to contribute to original research under the mentorship of a faculty member, learning
lessons that extend beyond the classroom. Discussed below are fields of research
that are being investigated.
Theoretical and Experimental Biophysics Dr. Anthony J. Nicastro
There are on-going studies of the mechanics of animal life, including the aerial maneuvers
of spinner dolphins [Image credit: Bob Pitman] and death rolls in alligators. Also, investigating the long-term survival of bacteria trapped in geological formations
whose genetic material is subject to damage from ambient ionizing radiation. This work is being done as part of the Ancient Biomaterials Institute at West Chester Univeristy.
Physics of Liquid Crystals Dr. Anthony J. Nicastro
Exploring the physics of liquid crystals, especially in regards to optical, thermal, and
high-field phenomena at phase transitions.
[Image credit: Michael W. Davidson and Florida State University]
Magnetic Field Changes During Solar Flares Dr. Jeffrey J. Sudol
We are using GONG magnetograms to characterize the changes in the magnetic field in the photosphere of the Sun during solar flares. We are also using H-alpha Network and SOHO images to characterize coincidences between the magnetic field changes and bursts of light at optical and x-ray wavelengths. The data serve to constrain theoretical models of solar flares. [Image credit: The SOHO EIT Consortium; SOHO is a joint ESA-NASA program.]
Theoretical Cosmology Dr. Carolyn Sealfon
We use observational data (such as the cosmic microwave background radiation [see image],
galaxy redshift surveys, and weak gravitational lensing) to constrain theories of the structure
and evolution of the universe. For more details, visit Dr. Sealfon’s website.
[Image provided by: NASA/WMAP Science Team]
Thin Films Growth and Characterization Dr. Matthew M. Waite
We are investigating the growth and magnetization of silicon-manganese thin films for use in
spintronics applications. In addition, we are using DC and RF magnetron sputtering in order to
investigate the growth of FePt nanoparticles and to study the effects of N addition on the magnetic
properties of these nanoparticles.
Aerosol Particle Characterization via Elastic Light Scattering Dr. Kevin B. Aptowicz
We are exploring the use of angularly-resolved elastic light to identify, or at least characterize,
individual aerosol particles. This work is being done in collaboration with scientists at the US Army
Research Laboratory and Yale University.
Physics of Soft Matter Dr. Kevin B. Aptowicz
With the aid of optical microscopy, fundamental phenomena, such as freezing, melting,
and glass formation are being investigated using systems of colloidal particles. This work
is being done in collaboration with Arjun Yodh’s group at the University of Pennsylvania.
