PAMS Focus - November 2002

PAMS Focus is a periodic e-mail newsletter about activities, achievements and other news from the NC State College of Physical & Mathematical Sciences. If you have any suggestions or comments, please share them with Sally Ramey, Director of College Relations, at 919-513-0300 or slramey@ncsu.edu.

NC State chemist confirms that amorphous materials aren't

Liquids aren't just a collection of randomly moving molecules. In fact, they have a structure that can be understood and manipulated, opening the door to a whole new field of amorphous materials science. Dr. James Martin's groundbreaking research into the structure of liquids and glasses was published in the Sept. 26 issue of Nature . His work has attracted world-wide attention. The NC State news release announcing his findings can be found at http://www.ncsu.edu/news/press_releases/02_09/248.htm

Physics student's work chosen for NASA's Astronomy Picture of the Day

Under the direction of Dr. John Blondin, student Michael Owen created a three-dimensional simulation of an accretion disk - cosmic material swirling into a black hole or other compact central object. NASA rarely chooses non-photographic images for its Picture of the Day. To see the image and an explanation of what it represents, visit http://antwrp.gsfc.nasa.gov/apod/ap020927.html

Permanently etch your name into NC State history

Well, actually, your name would be laser-etched in brick.

To coincide with the construction of the new Undergraduate Science Teaching Laboratory (USTL) building, PAMS has introduced an engraved brick walkway. This walkway will include bricks engraved with the names of alumni, faculty, staff, students and friends. Proceeds from the sale of the bricks will support scholarships within the College. A brochure describing the program will be mailed to all alumni shortly.

Eric Doggett named Distinguished Alumnus for PAMS

Eric Doggett (Physics, 1981) was recognized at the Alumni Association's Distinguished Alumni Luncheon as the College's 2002 recipient of this honor. With 20 years' experience in the telecommunications industry, Doggett has an outstanding record of leadership and business acumen. He currently serves as president and CEO of Glenayre Technologies in Atlanta. His award was accepted on his behalf by his father, physics emeritus professor Wes Doggett. For the full story and a photo of Eric, visit http://www.ncsu.edu/news/press_releases/02_10/284.htm

PAMS Development has record-breaking year

The College's development efforts achieved a record high in total private commitments for 2001-02, surpassing $7 million and exceeding the previous year's commitments by 61 percent. In addition to significant alumni support, the College also continued its growth in building corporate partnerships, resulting in financial support and internship opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students, as well as unrestricted research investments. For more information, visit http://www.pams.ncsu.edu/development/annualreport.html

Meteorology student publishes book on Hiddenite, N.C.

Known for its unsual geology and rare mineral finds, Hiddenite, N.C. is one of those small towns with a big story. Adam Smith, a graduating senior in meteorology, recently published a book detailing the local history and folklore surrounding the town and its historic mines. Soon to appear in Barnes & Noble Bookstores, as well as on Amazon.com, "Hiddenite: Land of Discovery," is entertaining and informative. More information can be found at: www.weatherimages.org/absmith