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Title
Lecturer and Co-Adjunant
Area of Study/Expertise
Physics Education
Email
ML1490@rutgers.edu

Michele Lau

Education

Rutgers University- New Brunswick, NJ

  • Ed.M. 5-Year Program with Certification in Physical Science and Physics Education (K-12)
  • B.A. Physics (with High Honors)
  • B.A. Communication – Specialization in Leadership in Organizations and Community

Professional Background

I am a Physics Lecturer and Co-Adjutant in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Rutgers University, as well as a Ph.D. student in Physics Education with the Graduate School of Education. Currently, I serve as the Co-Vice President of Events for the GSE Student Affairs Committee (GSAC), where I help coordinate programs that foster community and professional development. I am also an active member of the Physics Instructional Resource Association (PIRA), a national network dedicated to improving physics teaching through the sharing and development of demonstration resources.

Current Research and Teaching

My research focuses on instructional explanations and the design of physics lecture demonstrations, with the goal of understanding how these tools can make complex concepts more engaging and accessible for students. In my teaching, I strive to combine clear explanations with interactive, hands-on demonstrations to promote active learning in the classroom. I teach undergraduate physics courses and integrate a variety of visual and experimental tools to help students connect theory to real-world phenomena.

Outreach and Related Work

I have worked closely with the Rutgers physics demonstration program for over six years, contributing to the design, setup, and performance of demonstrations in both large lecture courses and public outreach shows. I regularly participate in events such as the Rutgers Faraday Show and the American Association of Physics Teachers’ national demo shows.

Related Hobbies

I am a physics enthusiast and an amateur woodworker and metalworker. In my free time, I enjoy making physics demo videos on Instagram and my new YouTube channel, @PhysicsDIY.

Awards

  • Chancellor-Provost Student Staff Excellence Award (2023)
  • Paul Robeson Thesis Scholar Award (2023)
  • Chair’s Award for Exceptional Service to the Department of Physics and Astronomy (2023)

More details or previous activities…

My CV can be found here.