Department of Physics

Department of Physics Awardees

Outstanding Graduate Teaching Assistant in Physics (Fall 2022)

Sandra Cheng

I am a physics PhD graduate student at UMBC who's poised to graduate in 2026. My research is in experimental quantum optics, particularly in the field of quantum information. I aim to further push the boundaries of our current understanding of the universe, and advance quantum technology. 

Outstanding Graduate Teaching Assistant in Physics (Spring 2022)

Prajwal Panda

I am a Physics Major at UMBC, graduating in August of 2023. I did my Undergrad and my master's from India in Quantum Information and Material Sciences. I am currently working on Evidence for a Universal Mass Profile in Galaxy Clusters in Astrophysics in the Physics department. 

Outstanding Undergraduate Learning Assistant in Physics 

Laylor Matsibo

I am a junior computer science major with an AI/ML track. I am also a Deans merit scholar and I will be interning at the Center for Talented Youth by JHU for the summer.

Matthew Lastner

I am a junior pursuing a computer science-mathematics dual degree, minoring in physics. I strive to expand STEM outreach as a Teaching Assistant, Observatory Specialist at the UMBC Observatory, and Society of Physics Students President, which I plan to continue in graduate school for mathematics. 

Elizabeth Kane

I am a senior at UMBC, graduating in May as a physics major. I have been involved in research on campus for the past two years and off campus for a summer REU program at UMich. I will be continuing research and my education by attending the University of Colorado Boulder for a PhD in physics. 

Asimit Bhattarai

I am a physics-computer science, double major graduating May 2024. I have been researching with Dr. Can Ataca on Semiconductor Physics. I will be going to graduate college after getting my Bachelor’s degree.

Outstanding Graduating Senior with Honors in Physics

Emily Ferketic

Outstanding Graduating Senior with Honors in Physics

Elizabeth Kane

I am a senior at UMBC, graduating in May as a physics major. I have been involved in research on campus for the past two years and off campus for a summer REU program at UMich. I will be continuing research and my education by attending the University of Colorado Boulder for a PhD in physics. 

Outstanding Graduating Senior with Honors in Physics

Brian Lynch

Outstanding Graduating Senior with Honors in Physics

Mathew Varghese

Congratulations to all our awardees!