Mark Paddock, Ph.D University of California, San Diego

I have worked at UCSD for over 25 years in biological physics, chemistry and circadian biology and taught over 3,000 introductory physics students, predominantly in the life-science majors. Teaching is rewarding and a true passion for me. I continue to utilize my chemistry and life science experiences by adding life science related content and improving and enriching the physics education of biology majors. I am wholeheartedly committed to concentrating on new formats in instruction while connecting the content directly to students. I have added many examples of physics in biology labs, biological courses and medical diagnostics. I am currently contributing to content for the revised Principles of Physics by Serway and Jewett allowing me to contribute to Physics education well beyond campus. Besides content, I continue to introduce instructive changes in my class to promote student engagement, which is key in reaching students.

One of my goals is to assist students from all backgrounds in physics education. I was recently involved in a special Physics 2A course in the summer of 2016 for the first Chemistry Academy at UCSD designed for transfer students from community colleges who traditionally struggle with the transition to UCSD, both academically and environmentally. I was able to assemble an incredible team of six assistants sharing the common goal of making the course very open and relaxed while challenging students. I continue to guide several of the students in their pursuit of education at UCSD.

I am also involved in community outreach programs to interact with an even broader audience ranging in age and experiences. I work with the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center training volunteers on the physics of their exhibits and in organizing and developing hands-on and thought provoking demonstrations for their special Night of Science (NoS) events. Previous NoS events led to my being on local television to promote the NoS event and connections with UCSD.

I am also actively promoting diversity and inclusion by mentoring students through the MARC, STARS and MAP programs. MAP provides me with connections to local high school students from underprivileged and underserved communities and schools. These opportunities promote my goal in promoting physics and physical principles to a broad range of students independent of age, race or background.

My goal in teaching is to provide a positive and open learning environment while relating physics concepts to students. As an Instructor in the classroom I adapted changes and added content to link physics concepts to life science. Through community outreach at Reuben H. Fleet and programs like MAP at UCSD I will continue to encourage scientific learning in students of all ages. The joy in teaching is being able to inspire and rewarding to see life science students grasp the value of physics.