Physics and applied physics explore the universe we inhabit, from the infinitesimal to the infinite, from the quantum to the cosmic, by studying light, matter and energy.

Research: Merging Technology with Science

Research lies at the heart of our department, with expenditures totaling over $10 million annually.

Work alongside our world-class faculty in a diverse array of experimental, computational and theoretical research as you prepare for stimulating careers in academia, industry and government.

Explore All Physics Research

Two UMass Lowell physics students look at equipment in a classroom.

Join Our Physics Colloquia

Each month we bring speakers from across campus and across the country to talk about current topics in physics.

View our Fall 2024 schedule.

Meet Our Students

Shanice Kelly works in a lab with another student
Shanice Kelly '21
Physics and Mechanical Engineering

Shanice Kelly is a leader in multiple campus clubs because she wants to get more students of color involved in STEM, especially space science programs.

If I want to see certain things happen, it doesn’t seem right to leave it to other people to do them.
Read More About Shanice Kelly 
Francesca Kamwa on a spiral staircase in the nuclear reactor at UMass Lowell
Francesca Kamwa '22
Radiological Health Physics

Francesca Kamwa ’21 nearly dropped out when her father died. Thanks to support from UML faculty, she’s now applying to medical schools.

There have been a lot of ups and downs, but UMass Lowell has given me so many opportunities.
Read More About Francesca Kamwa 
Rigel Cappallo env image
Rigel Cappallo ’13, ’16, ’19
Physics

Triple River Hawk Rigel Cappallo ’13, ’16, ’19 went from pianist to physicist.

I really loved the relationship that I had with the entire faculty and staff in the physics department.
Read More About Rigel Cappallo 
Liam with a telescope
Liam Neeley '23
Physics

Physics major Liam Neeley spends his nights looking at the stars as a student worker at the UMass Lowell Schueller Observatory.

With this research, I’m applying what I’ve been learning in class.
Read More About Liam Neeley 

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