Research: Research in atomic and molecular physics is directed towards a detailed understanding of the collisions and interactions of ions with atoms and molecules, and electrons and photons in a wide variety of plasma environments. In progress are studies of (a) reactions of excited states in plasma etching environments, (b) growth and stability of cluster ions at low temperature, (c) ultraviolet spectroscopy of multiply-charged ions and (d) reactions of ions and electrons at elevated temperatures. Facilities used in support of this work include optical spectrometers, high voltage discharge cells, pulsed and continuous lasers, computer-controlled fast data acquisition systems, and magnetic sector mass spectrometers. Such capabilities allow detailed examination and adjustment of the plasma environments of interest and simulation of such weakly ionized plasmas as found in the ionospheres of planets, laser discharges and fusion plasmas.

Has been a member of the U.T. Dallas faculty since 1972.
Assistant professor Physics 1972-75
Associate professor Physics 1975-1984
Served as Program Head in Physics 1975-78
Assistant, Associate Dean Graduate Studies 1978-1994
Professor Physics 1984
Dean Graduate Studies 1994

Since 1972 has served as
1981-1991 UTD Patricia Roberts Harris (PRH) Coordinator
1991-93 PRH Southwest Region Coordinator
Chair and Vice Chair of Commencement Committee,
University Marshall
President, and member Sigma Xi Society, U.T. Dallas Club and Chapter
UTD Ford, Fullbright and NSF Foundation coordinator
Faculty representative on Council of Governmental Relations (NAS)
Coordinator of orientation programs for TA’s, New Faculty, Lecturers, ESL
Membership on university committees on Distance Learning, Educational Policy,
Safety, Housing Advisory, Scholarship, Intellectual Property, radiation safety.

Primary area of research interest is in the examination and exploitation of low energy collisional and radiative processes in plasmas of planetary, processing and laser interest using mass and optical spectroscopies.

Primary areas of teaching for Austin are in Modem Physics, Atomic and Molecular Processes, Atomic and Molecular spectroscopy and Physical Measurements.

More information about the Physics Department.