Department of Physics & Astronomy
Alumni testimonials
Physics & Astronomy alumni hold positions as teachers, engineers, data analysts, project managers, researchers, health care workers, science writers, policy makers and lawyers, and many more. We interviewed some of our graduates about their professional paths and the role their physics or astronomy degree from our department played in shaping their current career.
Degree Programs
Undergraduate Program
An undergraduate education in physics provides a solid foundation for a lifetime of learning in a variety of disciplines, including science, engineering, math, finance, education, law, and medicine. Find out more

Optics Program
Established in 1983, the Optics Program at the University of New Mexico is one of the oldest and most successful science and engineering interdisciplinary programs with a strong international reputation in education and research.
OSE graduate students conduct research at facilities in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, and at UNM’s Center for High-Technology Materials.
There are numerous collaborations with the three National Laboratories in New Mexico - Sandia, Los Alamos, and the Air Force Research Laboratory, and with members of the optics industry cluster (New Mexico Optics Industry Association – NMOIA).
Upcoming Events
Randomness for quantum sensing
Jacob Bringewatt
CQuIC Seminars
Jul. 23, 3:30 PM
- Jul. 23, 4:30 PM
PAIS 2540
Recent News
P&A Welcomes New Accountant III Aaron Sais
July 13, 2026Tara Drake Promoted to Associate Professor
July 7, 2026Diana Dragomir Promoted to Associate Professor
July 7, 2026Tonmoy Chakraborty Promoted to Associate Professor
July 7, 2026Darcy Barron Promoted to Associate Professor
July 7, 2026









