Andrew Ferstl, Ph.D.

Office:  146 Pasteur

Phone:  (507) 457 5863

e-mail:  aferstl@winona.edu

Course web page: http://course1.winona.edu/aferstl

Education

• Ph.D., Physics, University of Minnesota, 2000
• B.S., Physics, Mathematics, University of Wisconsin-Madision, 1993

Courses Taught:

• College Physics (202)
• University Physics (221, 222, 223)
• Computational Physics (320)
• Electric Circuits (302/328)
• Computer Organization (332)
• Microprocessor (333)
• Modern Physics (340)
• Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics (345)
• Quantum Mechanics (451)
• Undergraduate Research (460)
• Science Education (201)
• Science Education (401)
• Introduction to Higher Education

Research Interest

My current interest lies in the very basic understanding of nature:  elementary particle physics.  It is essentially the application of particle physics to answer cosmologically motivated questions.  Specifically, I am studying a model of particle physics that predicts the existence of a particle that could solve the Dark Matter question.  You may visit http://arxiv.org for a daily listing of new research papers in physics.  You may also search this website for the papers that I have published in the last few year.

I am also interested in physics education research. 

Current & Past Research Projects

• Dark Matter detection rates
• The exact calculation of the E and B fields of an infinite solenoid with sinusoidally varying current

What do I do besides physics

Although "physics is fun", I do enjoy other activities such as:  mountain biking, volleyball (sand or hard court), and spending time with my family.