Laser-focused learning

After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Physics from Wright State in April, Jacen Urbaniak will pursue a Ph.D. in physics at Worcester Polytechnic Institute.

Jacen Urbaniak loves physics. He loves solving problems, learning how things work and working in a structured learning environment.

After graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Physics from Wright State University in April, he plans to pursue a Ph.D. in physics at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Massachusetts.

He plans to focus his research on photonics, the science of light waves, and study lasers and imaging. Photonics is one of Urbaniak’s many passions.

Urbaniak received the Science, Mathematics and Research for Transformation (SMART) Scholarship from the Department of Defense, which provides students in STEM with funding and offers them employment through the Defense Department.

While Urbaniak was born in Newport News, Virginia, he has spent most of his life in Sharonville, Ohio.

He chose to attend Wright State for a variety of reasons and said his first impression of the College of Science and Mathematics and the Department of Physics was incredibly positive.

“The Physics Department was very kind to me when I visited,” he said. “There was a good research program I was part of and I thought being next to Wright-Patt would give me a lot of good opportunities. I also enjoyed the atmosphere and size of Wright State.”

Urbaniak participated in the Applying Scientific Knowledge Program, which allows students in the College of Science and Mathematics to undertake a research program early in their college career.

Urbaniak is also working with Clark State University to develop course material for a laser materials processing curriculum. He is currently researching machines like welders, cutters and 3D printers and compiles the machining processes.