Paul McKinley

My first real exposure to physics was in high school. Although it may not be a novel idea to those who have continued in the field, the idea of viewing the world through a “physics lens” was fascinating to me. Although I was not committed to pursuing physics upon entering college, both the courses I took during my first year at Pomona as well as my exposure to such a welcoming and collaborative physics and astronomy department made the decision to major easy. That component of our department culture which emphasizes not only education and research in the field of physics, but also the importance of increasing diversity and inclusion in all STEM fields are principles which I highly value.

Now as a sophomore physics major, I serve as a department student-faculty liaison and am currently a teaching assistant for the introductory physics courses. Because I know how influential a positive experience in physics and science can be early in one’s education, my efforts through our SPS chapter are focused on peer mentoring and outreach events we plan with local middle and elementary schools throughout the year. I am additionally interested in applying physics and engineering research in new ways which directly benefit people; my research last summer focused on developing image-processing techniques to utilize nano-biosensors for detection of infectious diseases in developing countries. This summer I am looking forward to working as one of the SPS Mather Policy interns in Washington D.C. and learning how science can better inform and shape policy at the national level.

Outside of physics, I am a runner on the Pomona-Pitzer cross country and track teams and volunteer as a college preparatory peer mentor at a local high school. I love cooking and just about any activity in the outdoors!