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Physics and Astronomy Department at BYU has new chair

July 01, 2007

Ross Spencer has been appointed as the new chair of the Brigham Young University Physics and Astronomy Department.

Spencer's tenure began July 1, and he has selected Harold Stokes to be associate chair. Spencer replaces Scott Sommerfeldt, who was recently named dean of the College of Physical and Mathematical Sciences.

Spencer has been with BYU's Physics and Astronomy Department since 1984, and he is a former recipient of the Karl G. Maeser Excellence in Teaching Award. His research specialty is in the area of plasma physics and gas dynamics.

He received his bachelor's degree from BYU and both his master's degree and Ph.D. from the University of Wisconsin, Madison. Spencer also spent five years doing research on magnetic fusion energy for the Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico.

For more information, contact Lynn Patten at (801) 422-4022.

Writer: Aaron Searle

SpencerRoss005.jpg
Photo by BYU Performing Arts Management

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