Driven by curiosity in physics and discipline from competitive swimming, physics senior Lana Janson has turned her journey at Missouri State University into a milestone moment — she is one of the student speakers at the university’s spring 2026 commencement ceremonies. Representing the College of Natural and Applied Sciences (CNAS), Janson will speak at the 1 p.m. … [Read more...] about Physics, perseverance and the podium
In the College of Natural and Applied Sciences (CNAS), many undergraduate and graduate students are actively conducting research. Across disciplines, they are asking bold questions, testing new ideas and gaining hands-on experience in the fields they plan to lead in the future. Among them are three students from the department of physics, astronomy and materials science: … [Read more...] about Curiosity in action
Congratulations to Dr. Tiglet Besara for his recent feature in Mind’s Eye magazine. Besara is an associate professor in the department of physics, astronomy, and materials science at Missouri State University. Besara and his students explore novel materials by creating entirely new compounds with unique properties. His research focuses on thermoelectrics — materials that … [Read more...] about Dr. Tiglet Besara featured in Mind’s Eye
Missouri State University’s Quantum Bears team has once again proved its strength in international competition. Led by Dr. Ridwan Sakidja, professor of physics, astronomy and materials science, the team comprised two Missouri State alumni, Matthew Bruenning and Gaige Riggs. They both graduated from the Master of Science in Materials Science program. The team was named a … [Read more...] about Excelling on the international stage
A Missouri State University team claimed first place in the prestigious 2025 Electric Power Outreach Institute (EPRI) Fusion Quantum Challenge. The team comprised Dr. Ridwan Sakidja, professor of physics, astronomy and materials science, and Gaige Riggs, a Master of Science in Materials Science graduate. They took home the first-place prize. About the challenge This year’s … [Read more...] about Missouri State team finishes first in Global Quantum Challenge