Prize Recipient


Recipient Picture

Laura Clarke
North Carolina State University

Citation:

"For leadership and dedicated efforts in developing sustainable laboratory experiences and courses throughout the entire physics curriculum that address the needs of diverse students who are considering careers in both industry and graduate study."

Background:

Laura Clarke is a Professor of Physics and an Alumni Distinguished Undergraduate Professor at North Carolina State University. She received a B.S. in physics from Montana State University in Bozeman in 1992 and her physics Ph.D from the University of Oregon, Eugene in 1998. Her research work focuses on the effects of photothermal heating on polymeric systems, polymer fluids experiencing strong electric fields, and polymer nanocomposites with an eye toward developing processing schemes that mitigate environmental damage or reduce energy consumption. Her educational leadership has focused on introduction of additional experiential learning to the physics major curriculum and better preparing those graduating with physics bachelors for entry into the workplace. Her honors include the University of North Carolina Board of Governors Award for Excellence in Teaching for NC State as well as other teaching awards at NC State and the University of Oregon.


Selection Committee:

Jeremiah Williams (Chair), Michael Ray, David Laman, Sean Robinson