National Mentoring Back Page: Past President's 03│ Rebuilding Trust in Science 05│ Community Conference 06│ APS Chapters Workshop 08│ Address to Members

April 2021 • Vol. 30, No. 4 aps.org/apsnews

A PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN PHYSICAL SOCIETY

ANNUAL LEADERSHIP MEETING MEETINGS APS Sharpens Focus on Ethical Conduct in Physics April Meeting 2021 Promises BY DAVID BARNSTONE Exciting Online Events BY LEAH POFFENBERGER he APS Council adopted comprehensive guidelines or the second time, the APS at the April Meeting are in Central for scientific integrity and T April Meeting is making Daylight Time. professional conduct in April 2019. its way online from April Before the conference officially But for much of its history, physics F 17 to April 20, exploring physics kicks off on Saturday, April 17, had no formal standards of ethical across the conference theme of several pre-meeting events will behavior. “Quarks 2 Cosmos.” The four-day be offered on Friday, April 16. A “Prior to about 1991, the APS meeting will feature scientific talks special workshop, which requires didn’t have any particular state- and special events sponsored by additional registration, will have ments about ethics,” said Frances 20 APS units and committees. two sessions, one at 11:00 AM and Houle, Chair of the APS Ethics Among the highlights is the Kavli the other at 2:00 PM, to discuss Committee, who provided an Foundation Keynote Plenary, fea- searches for beyond-the-Standard- overview of the committee’s work turing Andrea Ghez, Reinhard Model interactions with precision at the 2021 Annual Leadership Frances Houle Michael Marder Genzel, and Roger Penrose, the measurements. A Q&A session Meeting on February 5. “I think 2020 recipients of the Nobel Prize in it was just assumed everybody Physics. All times listed for events would hold themselves to very Society’s existing ethics statements For the next decade, the APRIL MEETING CONTINUED ON PAGE 4 high standards.” and survey its members about their Society’s work on ethics remained That assumption was chal- experiences, which they described relatively quiet. The APS Panel lenged by two separate, “completely in a 2004 Physics Today article. on Public Affairs (POPA) issued a APRIL MEETING 2021 shocking” instances of data fab- “As we analyzed the data, we handful of statements. Then, in rication in 2002 by scientists at really began to understand that 2016, the American Geophysical Bell Labs and Lawrence Berkeley treatment of people was also a Union published a draft of their quarks cosmos National Laboratory. In response, major issue in physics,” said Houle. ethics guidelines. Houle convened a Task Force on The revelation led to a statement “For the first time, treatment of Ethics with former APS CEO Kate on the treatment of subordinates people, especially harassment, was QAPRIL 17–202 ONLINEC Kirby, then a physicist at the and the formation of a new task elevated to the level of scientific Harvard–Smithsonian Center for force in 2006 focused on incorpo- misconduct held by fabrication, Astrophysics, and other colleagues. rating ethics education into physics The group worked to refine the curricula. ETHICAL CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 Advancing Science in a Global and Inclusive Community

INDUSTRIAL PHYSICS PLANNED GIVING Taking Your Next Steps: APS Legacy Circle Profile: From Physics Degree to Industry Career Erol Oktay BY DAVID VOSS

t some point during their undergraduate program, I attended undergraduate experience, career fairs, not only at my school, lasma physicist Erol Oktay A all physics students will but also at the big engineering knows the importance of have to make a decision about what schools nearby because I knew that P collaboration. Now retired, to do next. This point typically technology companies would not Oktay was for many years involved comes during their senior year be targeting Smith College. After I in one of the world's most complex before receiving their bachelor’s landed my first job, I found oppor- and collaborative endeavors—the degree. Do they attend graduate tunities on LinkedIn by staying International Thermonuclear school or enter the workforce? connected with recruiters. I have Experimental Reactor (ITER) being For insight into how one physicist also kept an up-to-date LinkedIn built in France to prove the fea- made this choice, Dan Pisano, APS profile. Additionally, I have found sibility of fusion as a large-scale Director of Industrial Engagement, great opportunities through pro- and carbon-free source of energy interviewed Audra Macie, Senior fessional networking at different based on the same principle that Audra Macie Principal Engineer at BAE Systems, conferences. powers our Sun and stars. And as a Inc., in Nashua, NH. Audra is an Dan: While in school, there assignments where I was working member of the APS Legacy Circle, Julianne and Erol Oktay early-career physicist who chose to are some classes in which you largely by myself, only providing he values the way physicists can enter the workforce after receiving occasionally work in teams, but work products to one other person; come together to support their her bachelor’s degree in physics in most classes, you are an indi- however, there have also been professional society through the Oktay received his PhD degree and astronomy from Smith College. vidual contributor and complete times when I have spent half my APS planned giving programs. from the University of Michigan in (See the sidebar on p.5 for more assignments working solo. Is the day designing new algorithms “I've been a member of APS 1969 with a thesis on how lasers information about BAE Systems.) working environment in industry with a team in a conference room. for over 50 years,” says Oktay. interact with laboratory plasmas. collaborative? Do you work alone In this case, we have split up the “I decided I should go ahead and After five years of research Dan: How do you find a position or on a team? assignments and worked individu- support the field of plasma physics at Massachusetts Institute of in industry after having been in Audra: Throughout my career, ally on pieces of a larger product. I and fusion. I started talking to Technology and the University school for more than 16 years? I have worked in a variety of have also had opportunities to lead people in the community and of Maryland, he joined the US Audra: When I was looking for roles allowing for collaborative different portions of my programs, decided that the best way would Department of Energy (which was a job during the last year of my and individual work. I have had which has afforded me the oppor- be through APS and the Division then called the Atomic Energy tunity to work collaboratively with of Plasma Physics.” Commission) and worked in the different engineering specialties, Controlled Thermonuclear Fusion subcontractors, and customers. Division until his retirement Dan: In academia, you frequently “I THINK THAT THE PHYSICS in 2011. get the impression that professors COMMUNITY SHOULD BE MORE “My activities in this group can work on what interests them involved program management AWARE OF THE APS LEGACY CIRCLE the most. What is it like working with responsibilities of oversight in industry? Do you get to work on AND THAT THERE ARE QUITE A for fusion programs at Los Alamos projects you like? LOT OF PEOPLE WHO CAN MAKE National Laboratory, the Princeton Audra: In my experience, there Plasma Physics Lab, Oak Ridge THIS KIND OF CONTRIBUTION.” will be assignments you like and National Lab, and General Atomics - EROL OKTAY

INDUSTRIAL CONTINUED ON PAGE 5 OKTAY CONTINUED ON PAGE 2 2 • April 2021

OKTAY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

in San Diego,” he explains. “In The Oktays are members of the addition, I was involved with the APS Legacy Circle, which recognizes International Energy Agency (IEA) donors who support the APS mission and bilateral collaborations with all through this kind of planned giving. major fusion labs in the European By including APS in their estate Union (France, Germany, Belgium, plans, the members create an and Italy), and in UK, South Korea, enduring legacy that will benefit April 6, 1938: Discovery of Teflon Japan, Russia, China, and India. My researchers, educators, students, position for the last five years of and the general public. my government career was Acting Oktay would like to see more Director, ITER and International people involved in the Legacy Circle. he history of science is rife with seren- Division in the Office of Fusion “We also contribute to the Baltimore dipitous discoveries that can profoundly Science.” Symphony Orchestra, and they have T impact our daily lives. That includes the In early 2020, Oktay and his a Legacy Circle that is quite big,” discovery of a novel polymer, later trademarked wife, Prof. Julianne Oktay, estab- he says. “I think that the physics as Teflon, by an American scientist named Roy lished with APS the “International community should be more aware J. Plunkett. Fusion Research on Burning Plasma of the APS Legacy Circle and that Born in Ohio in 1910, Plunkett grew up in Physics Fund,” which supports there are quite a lot of people who poverty and attended Manchester College in students and early career scien- can make this kind of contribution.” Indiana, where his roommate was future Nobel tists at US universities to take part laureate Paul Flory (honored for his contribu- in international workshops and tions to the theory of polymers). Like Flory, For more information about join- Plunkett went on to earn his PhD from Ohio research activities. They have made ing the Legacy Circle, please visit go. State University. His thesis was on the mecha- a multi-year gift to support this aps.org/legacycircle or contact Kevin nism of carbohydrate oxidation. In 1936, after effort and made a legacy gift to Kase at 301-209-3224 or email Chemists Roy Plunkett (right) and Robert McHarness further this important work for [email protected]. receiving his doctorate, he joined E.I. du Pont de (center) and technician Jack Rebok re-enact the dis- years to come. Nemours and Company (now known as DuPont) covery of fluorocarbon polymers. as a research scientist, where he worked for the CREDIT: HAGLEY MUSEUM AND LIBRARY rest of his career. Plunkett’s early research at DuPont’s Jackson “He recognized almost at once that the Laboratory in New Jersey involved developing material was different and that it had potential new chlorofluorocarbon refrigerants—preferably and DuPont saw it too,” Plunkett’s wife, Lois, something non-toxic and non-flammable to told The New York Times in 1994. replace less-desirable refrigerants like sulfur It fell to other chemists and engineers to dioxide and ammonia. He was experimenting find a good use for PTFE, which was initially with tetrafluoroethylene (TFE) gas, stored in 1 extremely expensive to produce and could not kg canisters at temperatures conducive to dry HELP GROW AND ADVANCE SCIENCE easily be shaped. The first application was on ice until they were ready to be chlorinated for WITH YOUR PLANNED GIFT TO APS. the Manhattan Project, where its corrosion the experiments. resistance properties proved useful as a coating Making a planned gift is one of the easiest ways On the morning of April 6, 1938, Plunkett on valves and seals in the pipes holding highly to support the programs and initiatives of APS. asked his research assistant, Jack Rebok, to set reactive uranium hexafluoride at the uranium Membership in the Society’s Legacy Circle is our way up their experimental apparatus with one of the of acknowledging your generous support for the enrichment plant in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. benefit of generations of scientists. TFE cylinders used the day before. Typically, The Teflon trademark was registered in 1945 when a canister’s valve was opened, the gas by Kinetic Chemicals, a DuPont partnership with LEARN MORE would flow out under its own pressure. But this General Motors, and was soon producing more go.aps.org/legacycircle time, nothing happened. Yet the weight of the than two million pounds of the branded PTFE canister had not changed. Realizing that there each year. By the 1950s, scientists had invented With questions, please contact Kevin Kase, simply wasn’t any gas left in the cylinder, a copolymers that kept most of the desirable Director of Development, at [email protected]. puzzled Plunkett tipped it upside down, and a chemical and mechanical properties of PTFE, yet white-ish powder fell onto the lab bench. were more easily molded or extruded, thereby “We scraped around some with [a] wire inside opening up more practical applications. All this, the cylinder… to get some more of the powder,” he in a field that had been considered mature and later recalled. “What I got out that way certainly relatively uninteresting scientifically. didn’t add up, so I knew there must be more In 1954, French engineer Marc Grigoire inside.” Eventually the two men decided to cut invented the first PTFE-coated nonstick cooking open the cylinder and found even more of the pans (brand name: Tefal) at the suggestion of powder packed into the bottom and lower sides. his wife. The first nonstick cookware appeared Plunkett often told audiences that his educa- in the US in 1961, introduced by Marion A. tion and training had prepared him to recognize Trozzolo, who had noted its usefulness for his novelty. He realized that the TFE gas had polym- scientific tools. Hundreds of manufacturers erized—something not predicted by prevailing all over the world now offer some version of theory at the time—into a waxy solid known as nonstick cookware. polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), with the iron Today, Teflon is used in a wide range of surface inside the container acting as a catalyst. industrial applications: in windshield wipers; EP3 Guide While he initially considered the experiment a as a stain repellant in carpets, furniture and Supporting physics departments as they failure, PTFE proved to have some remarkable clothing; in lightbulbs; in glass coatings; and respond to opportunities and challenges properties. It was corrosion- and high-heat- resistant, for instance, and had very low surface friction. HISTORY CONTINUED ON PAGE 7 View it at ep3guide.org

Series II, Vol. 30, No. 4 APS COUNCIL OF REPRESENTATIVES 2021 General Councilors Baha Balantekin* (Division of Nuclear Physics), April 2021 Gabriela Gonzalez, Vivian F. Incera*, Elizabeth Simmons (Division of Particles and President Robert McKeown*, Robin L. B. Selinger* Fields), Stuart Henderson (Division of Physics of © 2021 American Physical Society Sylvester J. Gates*, Brown Theoretical Physics Beams), Amitava Bhattacharjee* (Division of Center, Brown University International Councilors Plasma Physics), Karen Winey (Division of Polymer Karen Hallberg, Ursula Keller, Physics), Charles H. Bennett (Division of Quantum Editor...... David Voss President-Elect Ahmadou Wagué*, Enge Wang Information), Heinrich Jaeger (Division of Soft Frances Hellman*, University of California, Matter), Laurie McNeil (Forum on Education), Staff Science Writer...... Leah Poffenberger Berkeley and Lawrence Berkeley National Chair, Nominating Committee LaNell Williams* (Forum on Graduate Student Contributing Correspondents ...... Sophia Chen and Alaina G. Levine Laboratory Maria Spiropulu, Caltech Affairs), Virginia Trimble (Forum on the History of Design and Production ...... Meghan White Physics), Jim Adams (Forum on Industrial and Applied Vice President Chair, Panel on Public Affairs Physics), Emanuela Barzi (Forum on International Robert Rosner*, The University of Chicago William Collins, Lawrence Berkeley National Physics), Beverly Karplus Hartline* (Forum on Laboratory Physics and Society), Nadia Fomin (Southeastern APS News (ISSN: 1058-8132) is published APS News, One Physics Ellipse, College Park, MD Past President Section), Nora Berrah* (New England Section) monthly, except for a combined July-August 20740-3844, Email: [email protected]. Philip H. Bucksbaum*, Stanford University and Editor in Chief issue, 11 times per year, by the American Phys- SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory Michael Thoennessen, Michigan State University Senior Management Team ical Society, One Physics Ellipse, College Park, Subscriptions: APS News is an on-membership (on leave) Jonathan A. Bagger, Chief Executive Officer; MD 20740-3844, (301) 209-3200. It contains publication delivered by Periodical Mail Postage Chief Executive Officer Mark Doyle, Chief Information Officer; news of the Society and of its Divisions, Topical Paid at College Park, MD and at additional mail- Jonathan A. Bagger, American Physical Society Division, Forum, and Section Councilors Jane Hopkins Gould, Chief Financial Officer; Groups, Sections, and Forums; advance infor- ing offices. Michael Coleman Miller (Division of Astrophysics), Beth Gunzel, Chief Human Resources Officer; mation on meetings of the Society; and reports Speaker of the Council David Schultz (Division of Atomic, Molecular, and Matthew M. Salter, Publisher; to the Society by its committees and task forces, For address changes, please send both the old Baha Balantekin*, University of Wisconsin Optical Physics), Daniel Fisher (Division of Biological Francis Slakey, Chief External Affairs Officer.; as well as opinions. and new addresses, and, if possible, include a Physics), Tanja Cuk (Division of Chemical Physics), James W. Taylor, Deputy Executive Officer and mailing label from a recent issue. Changes can be Treasurer William Halperin (Division of Condensed Matter Chief Operating Officer; Letters to the editor are welcomed from the emailed to [email protected]. Postmaster: James Hollenhorst*, Agilent Technologies Physics), James Freericks (Division of Computational Michael Thoennessen, Editor in Chief membership. Letters must be signed and should Send address changes to APS News, Membership Physics), Howard Stone (Division of Fluid Dynamics), include an address and daytime telephone num- Department, American Physical Society, One Corporate Secretary Manuela Campanelli (Division of Gravitational ber. APS reserves the right to select and to edit Physics Ellipse, College Park, MD 20740-3844. Jeanette Russo, American Physical Society Physics), John Fourkas (Division of Laser Science), * Voting Members of the APS Board of Directors for length and clarity. All correspondence re- Peter Schiffer (Division of Materials Physics), garding APS News should be directed to: Editor, Coden: ANWSEN ISSN: 1058-8132 April 2021 • 3

ANNUAL LEADERSHIP MEETING Science Communicators Discuss Rebuilding Trust in Science BY LEAH POFFENBERGER

rom February 4 to 6, the According to Thorne, both the 2021 APS Annual Leadership ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and F Meeting brought together the Trump presidency highlighted a number of prominent leaders problems in America that must be in science to address issues addressed: widespread confusion facing the physics community. A about, mistrust of, and resistance session on Saturday, February 6, to science. Rebuilding trust in titled "Communicating Science science, in particular skeptical to Nonscientists in Post-Election adults, requires the contribution and Post-Pandemic America," of all scientists making an effort gathered panelists at the fore- to connect with non-scientists. front of science communication Thorne says that for scientists to to discuss the growing challenge be effective communicators, they of communicating science in an must “eschew arrogance” and increasingly polarized society. create messages about science that Annual Leadership Meeting speakers (Left to Right): Kip Thorne, Cailin O'Connor, Alan Alda, Brian Greene, and April Burke Nobel laureate Kip Thorne can inspire, while conveying how (BRIAN GREENE PHOTO CREDIT: ELENA SELBER) (California Institute of Technology) science works. For communities started the session with a brief that are particularly resistant to tainty can be weaponized. O’Connor Greene then raised the question next step is to build a message presentation that introduced some the messages of scientists, Thorne also discussed the impact that the of how to train scientists in that specifically fits that audience. of the barriers to communicating emphasized the importance of con- internet and social media have had techniques that might help com- The panel discussion also science to nonscientists, especially necting with people on a personal on the spread of misinformation. municate truth in the face of touched on themes such as the skeptics. Thorne then participated and local level, recruiting well-liked Burke provided insight on how misinformation. Alda, known by role of scientists in society and in a panel discussion, moderated public figures who aren’t scientists aspects like uncertainty in science, many for his acting career but in a democracy, the necessity of by World Science Fair Co-founder to discuss an issue, and focusing skepticism, and economics play famous in the science commu- improved science communication Brian Greene (Columbia University). on solutions, rather than fear, on roles in lobbying in Congress to nity for his dedication to teaching education in college curricula, and Other panelists lending their unique topics like climate change. support the scientific endeavor. scientists to communicate at the how to make a field like physics perspectives to communicating To kick off the discussion portion In influencing the thinking of Alan Alda Institute, suggested more relevant in people’s everyday science were: Alan Alda, actor, of the session, Greene asked the members of congress, she says getting into the minds of those lives. At the same time, the panel writer, and founder of the Alan Alda panelists to reflect on how to that uncertainty can be important one is attempting to reach and suggested that a key to communi- Center for Science Communication communicate about uncertainty to discuss: that’s why scientists speaking to the audience in their cating about physics isn’t only its at Stony Brook University; April in science. Thorne recommended want funding to search for answers. language about what concerns everyday uses, but its potential to Burke, congressional lobbyist for talking about the best knowledge we For skeptical staffers or members them. At the Alda Institute, he present the mystery and beauty LIGO, Fermilab, and other science have, while O’Connor acknowledged of Congress, Burke recommends says they often have scientists of science and inspiring wonder. organizations; and Cailin O’Connor, that some areas, especially those finding something everyone can experiment with improvisation UC Irvine philosopher of science, that aren’t politically controversial, both agree on, such as positive to learn how to quickly establish The full recording of this session is expert on science communication, can benefit from discussing uncer- economic or technological impacts, connections with another person available online at www.youtube. and author of The Misinformation tainty in science, but in other areas, to help further the argument for and learn what they care about. com/watch?v=NlhmMBVFF10. Age: How False Beliefs Spread. like vaccines, scientific uncer- funding scientific research. Once the connection is made, the

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS APS Members Advocate for Key Science Policy Issues During First-Ever Virtual CVD BY TAWANDA W. JOHNSON APS Honors he 2021 APS Congressional set up a virtual lounge that allowed “The organization of the Visits Day (CVD) was one for APS members to communicate with virtual CVD was seamless. I was T the Society’s record books, one another between meetings and so impressed with how clearly as the first virtual CVD was held ask questions and provide real time the team laid out where I had to APS Medal for Exceptional Achievement in Research with more than 60 APS members feedback to APS OGA staff. be, how to prepare, and where to Deadline: from around the country partici- During their meetings, volun- go,” said Laura Ríos, Assistant pating—including some currently teers advocated for six science policy Professor of Physics at California Dannie Heineman Prize for Mathematical Physics living abroad—in more than 80 priorities, which were determined Polytechnic State University. “The Deadline: congressional meetings. Based on with input from APS members and hard work that was put in, partic- members’ accounts, their expe- leaders. They asked Congress to: ularly in creating the one-pagers Edward A. Bouchet Award riences were both positive and include at least $26 billion in relief to share with our congressional Deadline: productive. funding in the next COVID-19 relief representatives, will make future To prepare for this year’s unique, bill for key federal science agencies; in-person meetings that much George E. Valley, Jr. Prize all-virtual, two-day event, the prioritize robust funding increases more impactful.” Deadline: APS Office of Government Affairs for those science agencies; bolster Andrea Liu, Hepburn Professor Julius Edgar Lilienfeld Prize (APS OGA) staff made several key research capacity at emerging of Physics at the University of adjustments designed to help APS research institutions to broaden Pennsylvania and former Speaker Deadline: members have the most effective STEM participation; overturn a of the APS Council, described a Maria Goeppert Mayer Award meetings possible. For example, recent EPA rule that eliminated similar positive experience during Deadline: APS OGA staff worked with APS particular methane emissions the virtual CVD. Communications staff to develop a regulations; and support the fol- “I thought the virtual visits went Prize for a Faculty Member for Research at an new website hosting the one-page lowing bills: the “Securing Helium very well! The first staffer we spoke Undergraduate Institution summaries of APS’s science policy for Science Act,” the “Keep STEM Deadline: priorities, which was accessible by Talent Act,” and the “Combating congressional staffers. They also Sexual Harassment in STEM Act.” ADVOCATE CONTINUED ON PAGE 7 LeRoy Apker Award For Undergraduates Deadline:

LEARN MORE: aps.org/programs/honors

Andrea Liu Jay Mathews Laura Rios 4 • April 2021

APRIL MEETING CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 MEMBERSHIP UNITS at 12:00 PM will cover the APS At 12:00 PM, attendees will have The APS Division of Particles and Fields Innovation Fund, a program that an opportunity to meet and chat BY ABIGAIL DOVE provides funding to advance col- with the editors of the Physical laborative projects that support the Review family of journals. Sunday ith over 2,600 members, APS mission. Physics faculty may evening, the National Society for the APS Division of also be interested in the 2:00 PM Black Physicists and the National Particles and Fields (DPF) session titled “Managing Threats Society for Hispanic Physicists are W is a home for physicists interested to Your Department: Building a hosting a reception at 5:30 PM. An in fundamental particles and fields, Thriving Physics Program” that will LGBT+ Roundtable will be held at their structure, and their interac- provide information on the Effective 6:30 PM. tions and interrelationships, as well Practices for Physics Programs (EP3) At 8:30 AM, Monday’s sessions as the design and development of Guide and Toolkit for Departments will start with a plenary and panel high energy accelerators and other Under Threat. discussion of science on a global instrumentation for high energy Saturday morning at 8:30 scale, featuring Young-Kee Kim physics. AM, April attendees will have a (University of Chicago), Fiona This area of research spans the chance to hear from the newest Harrison (California Institute very small to the very large. As Nobel laureates in Physics at the of Technology), JoAnne Hewett DPF chair Tao Han (University of Kavli Foundation Plenary. Ghez, (SLAC—National Accelerator Pittsburgh) put it, “we study the Genzel, and Penrose will speak on Laboratory), and Luisa Cifarelli smallest building blocks of the the various aspects of black hole (University of Bologna). From 1:30 universe and their interactions. research for which they shared the to 3:30 PM, student members can This has a fundamental connection Nobel Prize. At 10:45 AM, the first of attend a Graduate School Fair, to A neutrino horn capable of handling one megawatt of particle beam is prepared with early universe cosmology and the scientific sessions start, with 21 chat virtually with representa- at Fermilab in advance of the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment. Neutrino the Big Bang.” physics is one of many areas of interest to members of DPF. parallel tracks. Meeting attendees tives from various institutions. Ongoing research in the physics CREDIT: FERMILAB also have a chance at 12:00 PM to Another student event at 3:30 PM, of particles and fields is advancing learn from Physical Review editors Meet Your Future: Career Panel on three major frontiers: the energy because they almost never interact awarded for research with a close about serving as a referee for the and Networking, will give students frontier, the intensity frontier, and with other matter. Measuring the connection to particles and fields. Physical Review journals. At 12:40 insights into preparing for non- the cosmic frontier. The energy mass and other properties of neu- The 2020 Nobel Prize in Physics PM, the APS Division of Particle academic careers. frontier involves the use of particle trinos has critical implications for (see APS News November 2020) was Physics will host their annual Grad The final day of the confer- accelerators to explore high-energy understanding matter/antimatter awarded for discoveries about black Slam, showcasing grad student ence will feature another plenary subatomic collisions. Such collisions asymmetry and the origin of the holes: Roger Penrose demonstrated research with lightning talks. session, starting at 8:30 AM, produce phenomena not seen since universe. mathematically that black holes Sunday, April 18, will include titled "Advancing an Inclusive the immediate aftermath of the Finally, the cosmic frontier is are a consequence of the general many more opportunities to hear Community," with speakers Big Bang, thereby providing clues centered on the study of visible theory of relativity, and APS Fellows the latest in research, from the Geraldine Cochran (Rutgers about topics ranging from the origin matter, as well as the dark matter, Reinhard Genzel and Andrea Ghez continuing search for dark matter to University, New Brunswick), of mass to the existence of other and dark energy that constitute 95% discovered a supermassive black applications of quantum computing. Brian Nord (Fermilab, University dimensions. of the universe, using a combina- hole at the center of the Milky Way. A special student-only session, of Chicago), and Dara Norman The intensity frontier involves tion of accelerator experiments, Earlier, the 2019 Nobel Prize in “Physics Crossing: Virtual Tours (NOIRLab). Parallel scientific the use of accelerators to study telescopes, and other astronomical Physics (see APS News November and Career Workshop,” at 10:30 AM sessions will continue through more rare and subtle phenomena, in observations. 2019) was awarded to APS Fellow will allow attendees to network the day, ending at 5:45 PM. particular, neutrinos—electrically Underscoring the fundamental James Peebles for his theoretical with other student members, neutral particles that are among importance of this work, Han framework about the shape and representatives from companies For the complete scientific program the most abundant particles in the pointed out that the two most and laboratories, and APS staff. and to learn more about special events universe, yet very difficult to detect recent Nobel Prizes in Physics were DPF CONTINUED ON PAGE 7 The session will also include a at the 2021 April Meeting, visit april. career workshop on preparing aps.org. for careers outside of academia.

FYI: SCIENCE POLICY NEWS FROM AIP

Fundamental Physics Innovation NSF Expansion Proposal Gains Steam in Senate AWARDS BY MITCH AMBROSE

he Senate is gearing up to Unlike NSF’s other director- consider legislation that may ates, the technology directorate T propose the most signifi- would have authorities analogous to cant restructuring of the National those used by the Defense Advanced Science Foundation since its estab- Research Projects Agency, which lishment in 1950. Called the Endless allows its program managers con- YOUR LAST CHANCE TO APPLY Frontier Act, the version of the bill siderable leeway to drive toward introduced last year proposed to targeted R&D outcomes. Typically, Act, which authorized an array LECTURESHIP AWARDS rename NSF as the National Science NSF has used external peer review of semiconductor R&D initiatives and Technology Foundation and of grant proposals to steer its Supports visits that enable seminars & and a subsidy program to support add a directorate to the agency programs. exchanges of ideas domestic chip production. He added charged with advancing a set of The bill has received mixed reac- it would also seek to alleviate the “key technology focus areas.” tions in science policy circles, with current acute shortage of chips VISITOR AWARDS Senate Majority Leader Chuck some observers arguing it could worldwide, which is slowing pro- Schumer (D-NY), a lead sponsor dilute NSF’s traditional focus on Supports extended visits between researchers duction in the automotive industry, of the bill, announced in February fundamental research and that it to learn, develop, & share techniques or among other sectors. that it will be the “centerpiece” places an outsized emphasis on scientific approaches “I want this bill to address of a broader legislative package university-led research. Others, America's short-term and long-term CONVENING AWARDS aimed at increasing US competi- such as MIT President Rafael Reif, plan to protect the semiconductor tiveness with China. Schumer said have defended the bill, noting it Supports scientific meetings to generate or supply chain and to keep us number he is aiming for the package to be has provisions that protect NSF’s build on ideas within the community one in things like AI, 5G, quantum bipartisan and plans for the Senate existing directorates and arguing computing, biomedical research, to vote on it this spring. He did not that bold changes to the US research storage,” Schumer remarked. indicate if the Endless Frontier Act system are needed in the face of His push comes as competing has been modified since last year increasingly stiff technological FINAL CYCLE DEADLINE: JULY 15 ideas are being circulated for how to but said it would propose to “surge competition from China. supercharge the US research system. resources” into NSF. Schumer has said his three For instance, the final report of Last year’s version proposed that goals for the overarching legis- the congressionally chartered Congress allocate $100 billion to the lative package are to invest in US National Security Commission on new directorate over five years, well innovation and manufacturing Artificial Intelligence, released in outstripping NSF’s current annual capacity; strengthen alliances with March, proposes creating a National budget of $8.5 billion. The additional NATO, Southeast Asia, and India; Technology Foundation rather than funds would be channeled toward and push back on “predatory prac- overhauling NSF. Read online an assortment of university-led tices” by China that have led to job Meanwhile, President Biden has research centers, test beds, and losses in the US. In addition, he aps.org/apsnews ordered a review of national supply consortia, and a portion would has said it could include “emer- be allocated through the agency’s gency funding” to implement the

existing directorates. recently enacted CHIPS for America FYI CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 April 2021 • 5

ANNUAL LEADERSHIP MEETING EDUCATION Federal Policies to Strengthen The National Mentoring Community Conference Science Celebrates Mentorship with Online Meeting BY DAVID VOSS BY LEAH POFFENBERGER

t the APS Annual Leadership ach year, the APS National connections, professional devel- mentor-mentee relationships. The Meeting in February, several Mentoring Community opment, and peer support. The conference also provided numerous A experts came together vir- E (NMC) brings together NMC conference is an important opportunities for networking and tually to discuss the science policy mentors and mentees at the NMC mechanism by which students and community building through landscape. The session, titled Conference as an opportunity to mentors are provided with resources GatherTown, a program that lets “Federal Policies to Strengthen build connections, grow new skills, and training. This year’s confer- users move an avatar through a Science in Service to the Nation,” and learn how to get the most out ence was organized in partnership virtual space to initiate conver- featured two panels with online of mentor-mentee relationships. with the National Society for Black sations. Three plenary sessions discussion moderated by science The 2021 NMC Conference, held Physicists, the National Society for focusing on challenges in physics, journalist Miles O'Brien. from February 18 to 21, continued Hispanic Physicists, and Oklahoma ranging from the search for dark In the first panel discussion, the tradition with an online format, State University. matter to creating a more equi- “The View from Capitol Hill,” physi- Lane (Rice University), Sethuraman allowing NMC members to safely The Virtual NMC conference table field, featured accomplished cist US Rep. Bill Foster (D-IL-11) and Panchanathan (NSF), and Ellen gather and connect for a full began on February 18, with a women in astrophysics: Chanda former Rep. Bart Gordon (D-TN-6) Williams (University of Maryland). weekend. series of community building Prescod-Weinstein (University tackled legislative challenges and The panel agreed that we are in a The NMC facilitates mento- and networking sessions before of New Hampshire), Jedidah Isler opportunities in restoring science Sputnik moment and confronted ring relationships between African transitioning to a more tradi- (Dartmouth College), and Brittany to a place of prominence in the by the twin crises of the pandemic American, Hispanic American, tional conference format the next Kamai (UC Santa Cruz and Caltech). government. The discussion covered and global climate change. Meeting and Indigenous undergraduate day. Workshop sessions, split The first plenary, titled Dark topics such as the COVID pandemic these challenges will require sup- physics students and local physics into mentor- or mentee-focused Matter in the Disordered Cosmos, as a “Sputnik moment” to spur porting domestic scientific talent mentors. It also seeks to provide topics, gave attendees a number investment in science and the need and attracting the best and brightest students from marginalized ethnic of opportunities to gain new skills to keep open scientific channels of from abroad. At the same time, or racial groups with opportunities, or learn how to get the most out of NMC CONTINUED ON PAGE 7 communication even in the midst global scientific cooperation in of global economic competition. basic research needs to remain Climate change and alternative open, while continuing to protect energy innovation, immigration economic assets like intellectual reform to retain global talent, and property. Moves by the Biden science education were also major Administration, such as elevating topics. the OSTP Director to a Cabinet The second panel, “Moving position, are a source of encour- Forward in a More Competitive agement for the panel. Landscape,” had a conversation about the global situation in A video recording of the entire science policy. The members of event can be found via the Annual the panel were Sir Peter Knight Leadership Meeting website: aps.org/ (Imperial College London), Neal meetings/leadership.

Brittany Kamai Chanda Prescod-Weinstein Jedidah Isler

INDUSTRIAL CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 ANNUAL LEADERSHIP MEETING assignments you don't like. The cation programs in which they best thing you can do is advocate either fronted or reimbursed the Physics Slam Showcases Research by Student and for yourself with your functional cost of classes up to a certain dollar manager to ensure that the assign- amount each year. It was certainly Early Career Award Recipients ments you get are aligned with your challenging at times to balance work BY DAVID VOSS career goals and interests. That and school, but it was so worth it to being said, I have found my teams be able to keep progressing in my t the APS Annual Leadership to be one of the best parts of my job. career and to continue my educa- Meeting in February, nine Even if I happen to have an assign- tion at the same time. My hope is A students and early career ment that isn't my favorite, having to transition into a role that will scientists were invited to present a great team makes coming to work more fully utilize my new degree rapid-fire three-minute talks on fun! I also ensure that I participate in the next year. their research. Each of the speakers in employee-run committees to was a recipient of one of the over pursue work culture initiatives 20 student and early career awards On behalf of APS, I would like to thank that I am passionate about. I lead a Audra Macie for the opportunity to given by APS every year. This first committee that sponsors different interview her for this article. For phys- Physics Slam was organized and events in the office to build com- ics students who are nearing a deci- moderated by 2018 APS President munity and comradery. Due to sion about next steps in their careers, Roger Falcone (University of COVID-19, the committee has had it is imperative to obtain accurate California, Berkeley), who was Jeremy England (Georgia described how measurement noise information about your possible to increase our creativity to help also chair of the APS Apker Award Institute of Technology) received in a thermoreflectance imaging options. Audra provided insightful those who are working remotely to the 2021 Irwin Oppenheim Award. system can be used to maximize information to help students make selection committee. resolution through the phenomenon feel connected to their colleagues the right decisions for themselves. Michelle DiBenedetto (University In his talk, he discussed three kinds working in the office. For those who are APS members, the of Washington) received the 2020 of self-organization in "life-like" of stochastic resonance. Dan: You mentioned that you IMPact mentoring website (impact. Andreas Acrivos Dissertation Award systems such simple robot groups Yuan Shi (Lawrence Livermore completed your master’s degree aps.org) offers opportunities to be in Fluid Dynamics and discussed or spin glasses: self-replication, National Laboratory) received the after you started working. I have mentored by industry professionals her work on studying the transport novelty detection, and many-body 2020 Marshall N. Rosenbluth who are experts in various corporate known quite a few early-ca- of microplastics in the ocean as dynamical coordination. Outstanding Doctoral Thesis fields. — Dan Pisano. reer physicists who have earned a function of the particles' sizes Bryan Boudouris (Purdue Award. Shi described how quantum advanced degrees to increase their and shapes. University) was awarded the 2021 computers operating at cryogenic subject knowledge in the area in Eleni Katifori (University of John H. Dillon Medal. Boudouris temperatures could be used to study which they were working. Was that Pennsylvania) received the 2021 described a new kind of macro- the behavior of stellar plasmas BAE SYSTEMS the case for you? Early Career Award for Soft Matter molecule called a radical polymer millions of degrees hotter. Audra: I earned my master’s in • Employs 87,800 employees Research. She presented her work on which provides the opportunity to Scott Baalrud (University of Space Systems Engineering from in more than 40 countries modeling living transport networks, design new kinds of amorphous Michigan) received the 2020 Thomas organic electronic devices. H. Stix Award for Outstanding Early Johns Hopkins University. I chose • Provides “advanced, such as vascular systems, so that Nicholas Poniatowski Career Contributions to Plasma the degree because it allowed me technology-led defense, the lessons learned can be applied (University of Maryland, College Physics. He presented a new kinetic to further my skills as a systems aerospace and security to other structures such as infor- Park) was recipient of a 2020 Leroy theory to understand a state of engineer and to take electives from solutions” mation networks. the applied physics department. I Jaroslav Trnka (University of Apker Award. He presented results matter intermediate between started my program in the spring • Develops aircraft controls, California, Davis) received the of experiments on the resistivity plasma and condensed matter. of 2018, and I completed my degree electronic warfare, 2021 Henry Primakoff Award for of an electron-doped cuprate that reconnaissance systems suggest that the high temperature in December of 2020. My current Early-Career Particle Physics. The entire Physics Slam session can and communications employer has a generous continuing He presented his recent work on metallic phase behaves like a low be viewed on the Annual Leadership systems for the com- education reimbursement program a new geometric framework for density metal. Meeting website: aps.org/meetings/ that paid for three classes per year. mercial and military understanding particle scattering Elise Koskelo (University of leadership. For more information on To be fair to my previous employers, electronics markets in quantum field theory called the Cambridge) was recipient of a APS honors go to: aps.org/programs/ honors. they also offered continuing edu- Amplituhedron. 2020 Leroy Apker Award. Koskelo 6 • April 2021

ETHICAL CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 PROGRAMS falsification, and plagiarism,” said student members collected by the APS Chapters Pilot Program Holds First All- Houle, who served as POPA Chair at AIP Statistical Research Center Chapters Events the time and led the development that follows up on the original of the new guidelines approved task force surveys conducted in BY LEAH POFFENBERGER by the Board and Council in 2019. the early 2000s. The two-year endeavor established “The proceedings of the Ethics n October 2020, APS launched a a standing Ethics Committee, Committee have gone slowly and new effort to support graduate which includes representatives deliberately, but we understand I students, post docs, and early from the Committees on Education, there is passion and desire for career scientists at their home insti- Minorities in Physics, Status of change,” said Marder, acknowl- tutions. The effort, APS Chapters, Women in Physics, and Scientific edging concerns of members that welcomed its first eight partici- Publications. the development and enforcement pating institutions in November Under the leadership of its inau- of ethical standards in physics is to begin shaping the program gural chair Michael Marder, the long overdue. and helping pinpoint what APS Ethics Committee has developed “I am delighted that the resources Chapters members are new policies and procedures for the American Physical Society has most interested in. served to further this goal, bringing fun interacting and competing in disclosure of professional conduct in embraced the issue and is hard at The eight institutions par- Chapters officers together along- trivia and scavenger hunts. In the the consideration of individuals for work examining our profession ticipating in the Chapters pilot side staff representatives from future, the Chapters program hopes APS honors and leadership positions from inside to out,” said APS CEO are: Drexel University, Florida six different areas of interest to to hold similar online events for within the Society. The committee Jonathan Bagger. State University, The Ohio State Chapter members: Careers, DEI networking, as well as introducing also outlined a process by which The ethics session at the Annual University, University of Central Efforts, Women in Physics, Public new activities to bring members a transgressor may be stripped of Leadership Meeting included a panel Florida, Rochester Institute of Engagement, Government Affairs, together across different Chapters APS awards, prizes, or Fellowship, with representatives from industry, Technology, The University of and Journals. Former APS CEO Kate to share their ideas and experiences. removed from an official leader- a national lab, and academia. Thom Texas at Arlington, Los Alamos Kirby, Past APS President Philip H. In the coming months, each ship position, or excluded from Mason described his experience National Laboratory, and Lawrence Bucksbaum, and Director of Project individual Chapter will be putting APS meetings. The APS Revocation developing an ethics policy while Livermore National Laboratory. Development Theodore Hodapp on their own events, specific to Policy was approved by the Council Director of Oak Ridge National Since their selection, each of the were also in attendance. their own needs, with help from and the Board in November 2020. Laboratory. The policy was ini- Chapters has elected officers and “The point of the workshop was the APS staff and departments According to the new policy, APS tially drafted by the lab’s lawyers begun organizing events for their for Chapter participants to get to they connected with during the will not conduct its own investi- and focused on legal and compli- Chapter members. APS has also know who does what at APS and December workshop. gations of alleged misconduct. A ance factors like conflict of interest organized two all-Chapters events: to have informal conversations. “The APS Chapters can fill an revocation request must include disclosures. a workshop for Chapters officers I wanted them to understand important need for some of our most supporting evidence “from a “This was not only a legal issue. on December 16 and a virtual net- what APS has to offer…we have so valuable APS members, graduate credible body,” such as an academic There are many things that may working event on February 24, many resources and activities for students and postdocs just starting institution or governmental agency. be legal but still aren’t right,” said featuring trivia games and a scav- graduate students and postdocs to out their careers in physics,” said The Ethics Committee would then Mason. So he convened a committee enger hunt. get involved in” said Farah Dawood, Bucksbaum, who was influential conduct a preliminary review and of research staff at all levels of the “In many institutions, there is no Chapters Program Manager. in starting the program during his decide whether to elevate the organization, from early career community for graduate students, The Physical Review journals presidential year. “APS Chapters case to the Board, which would in scientists to corporate fellows, to postdocs, and early-career scien- staff, for example, is offering provide an opportunity to meet and turn decide whether to convene put forth their own policy. “What tists who are interested in career training for authors and referees. "I discuss physics, provide resources a Revocation Panel that would they came back with was actually a development in physics-related represented the journals during the for activities like seminars and provide the accused an opportunity much higher standard that demon- fields. [T]he increasing need to kick-off event last December and retreats, and also participate to respond to the request. Three strated the research staff were not connect with others due to the interacted with the representatives in many other activities of the of the four panelists would need satisfied to simply meet the letter pandemic led to this new Chapter of the chapters at that event," said Society.” to vote in favor of revocation for of the law.” being created at an ideal time,” said Warren Lin, APS Head of Editorial The application period to create action to be taken. “As physicists, we must hold Dina Zohrabi Alaee, Treasurer and Development. "Currently we are in an APS Chapter as part of the pilot Educating the community on ourselves to the highest ethical Secretary for the Chapter at RIT. the process of planning a training re-opened in early April. Graduate ethical best practices and how to standards,” said Bagger. “I look “APS Chapters are a great oppor- session with The University of Texas students, post-docs, faculty, or staff create positive change from within forward to working with the Ethics tunity for them to [improve] their at Arlington Chapter in April." members are welcome to apply to will be a key focus of the committee Committee and the APS membership professional and social skills, and While the December event start a Chapter at their institu- in 2021, and beyond. To that end, as we work to define the standards mental health.’’ focused on getting to know APS, tion. Chapters are open to graduate new subcommittees on Research to which we will hold ourselves and A primary mission of APS the February event provided an students, postdocs, and early career Integrity and Ethics Education each other accountable.” Chapters is to support individuals opportunity for Chapters members members at their respective insti- have been established. Committee in building inclusive and equi- to get to know each other—both tution, with the only requirement members are also analyzing new The author is APS Head of Public table communities and to create bonding with their own Chapter being at least five members of a survey data of early career and Relations. a space of learning for all. The and meeting members of other Chapter are also members of APS. program also seeks to connect each Chapters. Using Gather.town, a Chapter to APS staff and resources platform that gives each person an To learn more about the APS Chapters FYI FROM PAGE 4 for professional development or avatar they can use to move about a Program or to get information about to meet other needs and inter- virtual gathering space, attendees starting an APS Chapter, visit aps.org/ chains in critical technologies and The author is Director of FYI. ests. The December 16 workshop were able to kick back and have membership/chapters.cfm. voiced support for providing tens of billions to the US semiconductor Published by the American Institute industry. He has not yet commented of Physics since 1989, FYI is a trusted on the Endless Frontier Act or the source of science policy news that is AI commission’s recommenda- read by congressional staff, federal tions, though those proposals agency heads, and leading figures in generally align with aspirations the scientific community. Sign up for he voiced during his campaign to free FYI emails at aip.org/fyi. Have a great idea for a spend hundreds of billions of dollars on R&D in cutting-edge industries. collaborative project that aligns with the RR APS mission and our Strategic Plan? if RR R RR Submit a proposal to the APS Innovation Fund Selected proposals receive $25,000-100,000/year for up to 2 years. Deadline: April 22, 2021 TM ownoa a go.aps.org/innovationfund oaoaee physicsworld

April 2021 • 7

ADVOCATE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 NMC CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5 to, from Senator Pat Toomey’s office meetings. A concurrent let- out of their busy schedules—and featured Bouchet Award winner talk with a message for students in (R-Pennsylvania), loved the APS ter-writing campaign with APS likely put aside Zoom fatigue—to Prescod-Weinstein, speaking about attendance: “You are powerful, you webpage with all the one-pagers on advocates produced more than 600 virtually meet with APS volun- her research as a theoretical cos- are capable of building your own it—he had never seen that before. letters to Congress. teers. Joining those meetings mologist working to untangle world that involves liberation, and Working from that webpage was “As we all know, it’s hard to were six congressional members: the mystery of dark matter. She all of that is part of what makes actually easier than using physical replicate in-person interactions, Sen. Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM); Rep. recounted the first time she thought you critical to scientific inquiry. handouts since they could easily but our members expertly navi- Lizzie Fletcher, (D-TX-07th); Rep. about dark matter as a problem to You can’t do it by yourself—none find the right one, and we didn’t gated the challenges and delivered Van Taylor (R-TX-3rd); Rep. Pete consider—during a conversation of us can. Assemble a team that is have to worry about running out,” incredible results,” said Pruett. “I Sessions (R-TX-17th); Rep. John in 2009 with Vera Rubin. Prescod- responsive and excited about what she said. “There are certainly am so grateful to our advocates for Moolenar (R-MI-4th); and Rep. Weinstein encouraged students to it is you’re doing. Feel empowered benefits to in-person meetings, putting forth so much time and Judy Chu (D-CA-27th). think about the problem of dark to hold on to that vision.” as well. It's a little easier to read a effort into making sure that the “We extend our deepest thanks matter, especially in her area of The third and final plenary person’s reaction in person than voice for physics was loud and clear to these members of Congress for emphasis, the study of axions. “We featured Kamai, ShutDownSTEM on Zoom and to tailor the message on Capitol Hill this year.” making science a priority and for have no idea what dark matter is, co-founder, who spoke on “Elevating accordingly. More importantly, it There is already movement in taking the time to meet personally but that’s a great problem for the- Society by Transforming the Way builds camaraderie and enthusiasm the 117th Congress on several of with our teams,” added Pruett. oretical physicists,” she said. We Do Physics.” Kamai, a native on the CVD team to walk around the issues advocated for by APS Mark Elsesser, Interim Director Prescod-Weinstein also Hawaiian astrophysicist, framed the and spend the time together during members. Specifically, US Rep. Joe of APS OGA, said he, too, was elated described her personal origin story, talk, which described her journey breaks and meals.” Neguse (CO-D-2nd) recently rein- at the success of this year’s virtual and her path to her current field in through physics, around Polynesian Added Jay Mathews, Associate troduced the “Securing Helium for CVD and looks forward to the physics, which forms part of her voyaging. Her destination, she Physics Professor at the University Science Act” that, if enacted into staff being able to offer in-person new book The Disordered Cosmos. She said, was understanding the entire of Dayton, “This is my fourth year law, would provide researchers sup- meetings again. emphasized to students that you universe, and her vessel is physics in a row of participating in CVD, and ported by federal grants the ability “It was exciting to see the don’t have to look a certain way or and astrophysics. “My journey was every year, I am glad I participated. to continue to purchase helium from Government Affairs team and APS follow one set path to be successful. influenced by academia, STEM, and I had productive and interesting the Federal Helium Reserve at a members partnering in a brand “You might not see people who look the culture that exists inside and conversations with some of the discounted rate for eight years after new way to advance our policy like you in particle physics, but that outside of these spaces,” said Kamai. congressional staffers. However, I its sale. The “Combating Sexual priorities in a safe environment means particle physics desperately She described several tools that missed going to the Capitol, getting Harassment in STEM Act,” which during the pandemic. The innova- needs you,” she said. To conclude helped her navigate through STEM: lost in the House and Senate office would, among other goals, establish tions we made during this year’s her talk, Prescod-Weinstein also Hana club, a group she founded buildings, taking the underground an interagency working group to CVD allowed our members to have discussed the importance of diver- with other friends and academics tram between the House and Senate coordinate efforts to reduce sexual effective meetings virtually, but we sity and inclusion efforts that for co-working and support, and side, and eating lunch in the con- harassment involving personnel also greatly appreciate the value extend beyond STEM to “mate- Operation Voice, her method of gressional dining rooms. The other supported by grants, is also sched- of in-person meetings, as noted rially change the conditions that reclaiming her voice in academia. missing piece was all of the inter- uled to be reintroduced this year. by our volunteers, and are eager marginalize people.” Kamai also discussed the con- action between CVD participants President Biden’s broad immigra- to return to those interactions in Isler, an astrophysicist and troversy surrounding Maunakea, and APS staff, especially the debrief tion bill includes policy provisions the future,” he said. founder of the STEM En Route to a dormant volcano on the island meeting at the National Press Club that are aligned with the two key To learn more about key science Change (SeRCH) Foundation, spoke of Hawai’i that is both sacred at the end of the day.” visa and immigration provisions policy issues and to take action on at the second plenary focused on land and the site of telescopes for Callie Pruett, Senior Strategist of the “Keep STEM Talent Act,” a them, go to APS OGA’s Action Center how mentoring can change the astrophysics research. “I started for Grassroots Advocacy, said she bill APS has supported. at aps.org/policy/issues/. world. Her talk, titled Mentoring thinking: Where are the other was thrilled with the enthusiasm During CVD, APS OGA was as World Building: Co-Creating indigenous physicists?” said and professionalism displayed by especially thankful that so many The author is Senior Press Secretary Futures from the Hyperspace, used Kamai. “I then started the Society the volunteers during the virtual members of Congress took time in the APS Office of External Affairs. literary ideas to discuss the role of Indigenous Physicists…a space mentoring can play in creating to have unique conversations…and a more just ecosystem in STEM engage with indigenous leaders to and support people from mar- co-create with each other.” She DPF CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4 ginalized groups in the field. She also co-led ShutDownSTEM, which defined mentoring as: “a mutually partnered with groups Isler and makeup of the universe and to facilities, precision measurements This kind of planning is essential for respectful and beneficial relation- Prescod-Weinstein are part of, to Michel Mayor and Didier Queloz with leptons, and quantum sensors particle physics in particular, with ship that allows for transfers of stop business as usual in STEM on for the first discovery of a planet and computing, as well as 14 invited its reliance on shared equipment knowledge in both directions…that June 10, 2020, as a means of com- outside our solar system. sessions, including talks detailing and projects that can last several co-constructs a desired future.” mitting science to making steps In addition to this international the latest results from the CERN years to decades. The idea of world building towards eradicating anti-Black recognition of the field, another Large Hadron Collider, recent Because of the COVID-19 is that students—or anyone in racism. APS, Nature, Caltech, and point of pride for DPF is its com- advances in theoretical physics, new pandemic, this year’s community STEM—can bring together their NASA were among the institutions manding presence at the APS April frontiers in dark matter research, summer study meeting will be post- unique experiences as well as a that made changes to policies as a Meeting, where it sponsors a mix and presentations of the division’s poned until summer 2022, to be held vision for the future and come up result of the shutdown. Kamai ended of dedicated sessions on parti- 10 annual awards. at the University of Washington’s with a way to make that world her talk by encouraging students cles and beams as well as joint The years 2020–2022 mark an Seattle campus, with many working possible. Isler says that mentors to find spaces they feel heard and sessions in partnership with other especially important period for groups also holding satellite virtual have a role in this by helping their use their voices, acknowledging APS units such as the Divisions of DPF with the organization of the meetings. mentees figure out how to build the work mentors in attendance Astrophysics (DAP), Nuclear Physics division’s decadal study, the Particle Looking inward, the DPF execu- this world, rather than dictating are doing, and calling for all STEM (DNP; see APS News January 2021), Physics Community Planning tive committee has two major goals what it is. She also discussed the practitioners to take responsibility Gravitational Physics (DGRAV), and Exercise. Also called “Snowmass” for the division. First, to continue to concept of "hyperspaces": places in society and step up as leaders. Physics of Beams (DPB), encour- after the typical site of the gathering advance the field of particle physics, for marginalized communities to aging cross-talk and collaboration in Snowmass, Colorado, this study and second, to engage the research come together, taking a break from between these closely related provides an opportunity for the community—particularly the next The NMC conference was sponsored often oppressive spaces, and have branches of physics. particle physics community to come generation of young scientists. To by: NSBP, NSHP, OSU, and Kenton and exchanges that generate change in Amy Brown. To join the NMC, visit aps. This year’s April Meeting is together to identify and document a this end, DPF has no shortage of the broader culture. Isler closed her org/programs/minorities/nmc/. scheduled for April 17-20 in a scientific vision for the next decade opportunities for peer support, col- social distancing-friendly virtual of research in the field of particles laboration, and inspiring mentors. format. The agenda is headlined by and beams in the US and abroad. Overall, DPF stands out as a three plenary sessions: “Science Subsequently, the Particle Physics powerhouse within APS, promoting HISTORY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2 on a Global Scale,” “Advancing an Project Prioritization Panel (“P5”) research, global collaboration, and Inclusive Community in Science,” uses the input from Snowmass to exchange of ideas at the forefront even in certain hair products. In production, before his retirement in and the Kavli Foundation Keynote, define a 10-year strategic plan for of one of the most high-profile the medical sphere, it is used as 1975. Eventually he was diagnosed which will feature the three 2020 particle physics research in the US. areas of physics. More information a graft material in surgeries and with cancer and died on May 12, Nobel laureates in physics. This also involves identifying top on this unit can be found on the as a coating on catheters, since it 1994, at home in Texas. He was 83. Additionally, DPF is sponsoring priorities for the US Department of DPF website. keeps bacteria and other infectious or co-sponsoring four focus sessions Energy and the National Science agents off the surface. Teflon is also Further Reading: on topics including conceptual- Foundation, two of the biggest The author is a freelance writer based a common ingredient in weather- Lyons, Richard D. “Roy J. Plunkett is izations of future muon collider funders of particle physics research. in Stockholm, Sweden. resistant paints. dead at 83, created Teflon while The city of Philadelphia awarded at DuPont,” The New York Times, May 15, 1994. Plunkett the John Scott Medal in 1951 to honor an invention that contrib- Plunkett, R.J. “The History of Polytet- rafluoroethylene: Discovery and uted to the “comfort, welfare, and Development,” High Performance happiness of human kind.” Those Polymers: Their Origin and Develop- APS STORE who attended the ceremony even ment. Proceedings of the Symposium Browse t-shirts, bumper stickers, and other swag for received complimentary Teflon- on the History of High Performance Polymers at the American Chemical students, family, colleagues, and yourself on the APS Store! coated muffin tins. He was also inducted into the National Inventors Society Meeting, New York, April Hall of Fame in 1985. 15-18 1986. R.B. Seymour and G.S. store.aps.org Kershenbaum, eds. New York: Plunkett went on to head up Elsevier, 1986. production of the gasoline additive tetraethyl lead, as well as freon 8 • April 2021 THE BACK PAGE APS Annual Leadership Meeting: Past President’s Address PHILIP H. BUCKSBAUM

n an ordinary year, this address from the Just-Past This theme of coming together is so much a part of who President of APS would be delivered to the leadership we are as physicists and as an American Physical Society. I at the dinner following a day of the leadership convo- Part of the genius of the APS election system is the strong cation meetings. cooperative spirit it generates among the leadership, and I It would be traditional for me to say that I’m the only thing have benefitted tremendously from the six APS Presidents standing between you and dessert. Or something like that. who precede and succeed me: Laura Greene, Roger Falcone, But this hasn’t been an ordinary year, has it? Not for me, David Gross, Jim Gates, Frances Hellman, and Bob Rosner. and not for any of us. And the Council speakers during that time, especially Dan One year ago, on Saturday morning, February 1, 2020 I Kleppner, Tim Gay, John Rumble, Andrea Liu, and Baha stood before a live audience, including many of you leaders Balantekin. of the APS to deliver my “2020 Vision”. I am eternally grateful also to former APS CEO Kate Kirby I spoke about the honor and privilege of leading this and her fabulous senior management team. Kate’s tireless special organization, and about the boundless opportunities advice and good judgement has been crucial during my year. we have as physicists to explore the universe and discover Kate’s retirement coincided with the end of my Presidential new knowledge. year, so the most important task I faced as President and I spoke about the need for APS to serve better the youngest leader of the APS Board was finding her replacement as members of our profession, our students, to see to it that CEO, a task made that much more difficult by the pandemic they had every opportunity to succeed. The new APS Chapters restrictions for travel and meetings. I couldn’t be more pleased are starting to address this need. with the appointment of Jon Bagger to the CEO position, and I also spoke about the challenges that science was facing. I know that APS remains in good hands. Here again, leaders About our collective shock when some of the highly in our community came together to undertake that search. respected members of our field were led away in handcuffs As we approach the 1-year anniversary of the March and accused of federal crimes in their conduct of research. Philip H. Bucksbaum Meeting cancellation in 2020, there is much, much, left to I spoke about the potential erosion in the public’s trust do together. in us, the scientists, and even the public’s trust in the term in Washington on special leave to focus on the work 2021 President Jim Gates has a strong vision, and his science itself. of my APS Presidential year, I was stuck at home as nearly focus, the Cultural Climate of Physics, is so important for I spoke about the culture of science, how the wonderful all of us were. Well, that is, the fortunate ones. our future to regain and reinforce that public trust that we freedom we enjoy to pursue our own curiosity to advance Stuck at home, but I was busier than ever. need. I know you share my enthusiasm and look forward scientific knowledge carries an obligation, and how we needed In frequent teleconferences and other communications to to working with him. to rededicate ourselves to the highest ethical standards to earn agencies and Congress and OSTP, we helped the government The change in administrations in the White House has back that public trust, and reinforce the core values called assess the harm done to the research community by the eliminated some of the stress in our community. For example, out in our own APS Strategic Plan. Council Speaker Andrea pandemic, and we advised on mitigation strategies to keep President Biden has announced his intention to renew the Liu and I even crafted the first draft of a Board Statement grad students and postdocs employed and grants running, New Start Treaty with Russia, an important step towards on that topic during that Leadership weekend last year. even though labs were shut down. reducing the threat of nuclear war, a very big concern in And, those of you who were there, listened, and nodded, When some other proclamations and orders came out of the physics community. and applauded. Remember? the previous administration that hurt our community, such In addition, the head of the White House Office of Science What were we thinking? We had no real vision of the as wrong-headed directives to close our borders or cancel and Technology Policy will sit at Cabinet level under President 2020 we were about to face. visas to the students and postdocs who are vital to our Biden, which will get science into the conversation in white Where were you when the storm hit? For me, the weather work, policies that blamed the pandemic economic stress house policy areas. It’s about time. changed on the Saturday morning only four weeks later, on foreign scientists stealing American jobs, of all things. Another result is that we may have seen our last Presidential February 29, 2020 at 9:55 AM as I headed into a string When that happened, we pushed back. And then I got to Annual Budget with double-digit decreases in science quartet performance at Herbst Theater in San Francisco, see again the real value of the APS members coming together. funding, something that was an annual occurrence in the and just before silencing my phone I got a curious email We leaders wrote Presidential Letters and drafted Board past administration. from someone I didn’t know at the Stanford Medical School. Statements. And at long last there may even be a light at the end of It said, “You have to cancel the March Meeting.” I remember Our members made thousands—thousands—of contacts that long COVID tunnel, as vaccines roll out across the world. thinking, what is this? The March Meeting is only a day to their government representatives directly, in letters, But there is still much to do together. away. I was planning to head to Denver shortly myself. phone calls, and even in op-ed articles. Research security and unfair foreign competitors in About eight hours later, following a day of phone calls We even led our fellow learned societies in the natural science are still top concerns in the administration and among the March Meeting Chairs, former APS CEO Kate Kirby sciences to organize, to cosign briefs in support of court Congress, and we must make sure that scientists are part of and her senior management team, and the Board Executive challenges. the policy discussions on how to respond without harming Committee and amid news bulletins about the rapidly In short, by coming together, we made our voices heard. the international engagement that makes science work. evolving public health crisis, we sat down on Zoom. As Jim I could not be prouder to be a member, and even more, to be At the same time, science funding, and the state of STEM Gates already recounted in his opening address (APS News, an elected leader, of such an organization. Our APS Office education in the US have renewed visibility as the lamp of March 2021), we considered the science, and we recounted of External Affairs led by Francis Slakey last year really scientific understanding leads the way out of the pandemic the news, and we weighed our options. And we pulled the stepped up their game, and the enthusiastic actions and into a potential “New Sputnik Moment.” plug on the March Meeting 2020. I never went to Denver, much of the shoe leather came from you and the rest of the So as I depart, I can’t help but feel energized. We have and probably neither did you. membership. Thank you for that. new leadership in the APS, new leadership in the country, For us, it was a heart-wrenching tragedy done to avert a In the summer of our pandemic distress, our dark days new opportunities to support and broaden the physics still larger catastrophe. And it was the right move. I would got still darker, as the country reacted in horror over the community and promote its values to our nation and the do it again, I think we all would. deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and others at the world. Tomorrow, sessions will highlight some of those But of course, the larger catastrophe was not really hands of police. This led to great introspection across the opportunities. averted anyway, not in the US nor in the world—it was just country. And as physicists and Americans, we can no longer Best of all, BEST OF ALL, 2020 is now in the past. So too large. And it’s still with us. ignore our own cultural blind spots, when the fraction of let’s resolve to make the most of 2021 by working together But then something happened that gave me great courage African Americans in physics is far less than in the general for physics. and great hope: Our community came together. Through population, and the fraction in APS is even lower than that. Thank you all for your tremendous support and help and spontaneous grass-roots efforts and with tireless help from Soul searching is surely not enough. This was another work over the past year, and for the privilege of serving as APS Chief Information Officer Mark Doyle and APS staff call for our community to come together. your President. running mostly on adrenaline, large blocks of the March Here my successor Jim Gates came through with a bril- I look forward to our meeting in person in the near future. meeting happened anyway, on-line. liant leadership idea to start a new workshop initiative to And the APS meetings staff under Director of Meetings change the climate in physics—DELTA PHY. At the same The author served as APS President in 2020. He holds the Hunter Clemens took that ball and ran with it, creating a time, APS-IDEA took off, a grass-roots effort to share best Marguerite Blake Wilbur Chair in Natural Science at Stanford virtual April Meeting, and a virtual DAMOP meeting, and practices among Physics Departments seeking diversity, University, with appointments in Physics, Applied Physics, and much more. This virtual Leadership meeting, too. equity, and inclusion. IDEA was seed funded by the APS in Photon Science at SLAC. This article is adapted from his pre- Rather than move to Washington DC as my wife Roberta Board through our Innovation Fund, an initiative of the sentation at the 2021 APS Annual Leadership Meeting (aps.org/ and I had planned to do this year, to enjoy a Stanford Spring Board that was made permanent this year. meetings/leadership).

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