The Department is home to academic and research programs in Applied Physics and in Materials Science — each having its own philosophical approach and administering its own educational activities. The programs share a dedication to answering the most important questions and delivering lasting impact in broad areas of technological importance. Research topics in the department span from bulk metallic glass and nanomechanics, to photonics and optoelectronics, to plasma physics and energy technologies, to biophysics and biomechanics.