MSU’s Winger Takes Charge as New Head of Physics and Astronomy Department

Starkville, Miss: A Decade of Service Culminates in Leadership Role

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at Mississippi State University (MSU) is entering a new era with the appointment of Professor Jeff Winger as the department head. The announcement, effective from July 1, arrives following Winger’s interim stint in this role since last summer.

Well-equipped for the Role, says College Dean

College of Arts and Sciences Dean, Rick Travis, is confident in Winger’s abilities to lead. Travis praised his qualifications, citing not just his interim experience as head, but also his multifaceted vision for the department’s future. He looks forward to supporting Winger’s leadership in the upcoming years.

Taking Charge: Winger’s Goals for the Department

Winger’s previous accomplishments at MSU are significant. However, he shows no intention of slowing down anytime soon. His priorities include improving teaching quality, enhancing the graduate student experience, and increasing both the enrollment and retention rates of undergraduate physics majors. He also focuses on building up the faculty and students’ quality research.

About Jeff Winger: A Stellar Track Record

Apart from his administrative roles, Winger, the department’s advisor, is also an efficient committee member at the University Course and Curricula Committee. He is an esteemed member of professional organizations, such as the American Physical Society, the Mississippi Academy of Sciences, and the Mississippi Association of Physicists.

His impressive academic resume includes a Ph.D. in Nuclear Physics from Iowa State University and a bachelor’s degree in Engineering Physics from the University of Kansas. Winger’s research interests stretch from nuclear structure studies to the production and use of radioactive ion beams and the design of new detector systems.

Contributions to Science: Winger’s Research Influence

Winger’s influence spreads beyond his administrative roles and courses. His contributions to the field of physics and astronomy are showcased in recognized journals and publications such as The European Physical Journal A-Hadrons and Nuclei, Physical Review, and Nuclear Physics.

Preparing Tomorrow’s Leaders in Physics and Astronomy

The Department of Physics and Astronomy at MSU seeks to cultivate informed, responsible, and skilled citizens. It offers a Master of Science in Physics degree and a Ph.D. program. It aims to equip students with profound knowledge in various areas of physics for diverse careers in industry or academia.

With Winger leading the way, the department anticipates an exciting trajectory of growth and scientific discovery.