We are pleased to announce that Professor Ron Poling has been named Head of the School of Physics and Astronomy. He will replace Allen Goldman who has held the post since 1996. Poling will officially begin his job as Head on July 1, 2009.

Poling says “Allen Goldman has provided the School of Physics and Astronomy with steady leadership as Head for thirteen years, and we are all deeply grateful for his exceptional service. Every day's news reminds us that the challenges of the coming years will be great, but that there are also opportunities. With Allen's help and with the energy and creativity of a vibrant community of faculty, students, staff, and alumni, I hope to be a part of finding and realizing those opportunities."

Professor Poling received his Ph.D. in Physics from the University of Rochester, and his B.S. (Physics) from the State University of New York at Buffalo. He joined the University of Minnesota School of Physics and Astronomy as an Assistant Professor in 1987. He became an Associate Professor in 1991 and has been a full Professor since 1996. Ron was an Alfred P. Sloan Research Fellow (1988-92). He was the recipient of the Clifford C. Furnas Memorial Award of the University at Buffalo (1998). He was elected an APS Fellow in 1998.