Building Futures in Physics and Data-Tech

Data-driven modeling approaches emerged as physics researchers tackled the large data sets of astrophysics and particle physics experiments. Just like calculus and differential equations were critical requirements of the physics major in the past, it is imperative that the new data-driven methodologies be integrated in the curriculum to train the physics bachelor of the 21^st century.

In this project, we develop an integrated outreach, college preparation, and academic support platform for high school students in the Birmingham, AL metro area to succeed in the physics bachelor’s degree and launch into physics careers. Our hypothesis is that connecting physics with data technologies lowers the barrier for physics-loving students to enter and persist in the physics major. Further, we propose that teaching the novel tools/mathematics of massive data sets in the physics undergraduate curriculum fosters a new profile of professional physicist, better equipped to adapt to the job market of the future. We assess how effective is the connection between physics and data-driven modeling in recruiting and retention in the physics major, and how actual training in “data-driven modeling and tech” impacts the acquisition of physics concepts and competencies expected from the physics bachelor.