The director of the University of Maryland Center for String and Particle Theory, Gates is a leading researcher in supersymmetry—a concept that attempts to explain all of the particles and fundamental forces of nature in one theory by modeling them as vibrations of inconceivably tiny filaments of energy. As the author or coauthor of more than 120 research papers, articles and books—and a guest on “The Elegant Universe” as part of the PBS “Nova” series—Gates is known for his skill at communicating ideas at the forefront of physics to a general audience.

 

Sponsored by the Department of Physics, the Physics Café series presents world-class experts in a casual environment, where audience members and physicists can informally discuss new ideas. Past presentations have featured the time-warping properties of black holes, the exploration of planet Mars, the communication of elephants, and remote sensing of archaeological sites.

 

The presentation by Gates is offered in conjunction with the “Winter Recess” promotion by the Ithaca/Tompkins County Convention & Visitors Bureau. For more information on the program, visit www.ithacalovesteachers.com/.

 

For more information on the Physics Café, contact Beth Clark Joseph, assistant professor of physics, at (607) 274 3968 or bclark@ithaca.edu.