Batelaan named inaugural recipient of professorship

July 20, 2023

Herman Batelaan

Herman Batelaan, professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, was named the inaugural Burton Evans Moore Professor of Physics. Selection is based on ability and accomplishments in teaching and research as well as academic purpose, and the appointment is held for five years.

Professorships are one of the highest forms of recognition provided by the university. Donor Burton Eberle Moore established this professorship to commemorate the life of his father, who was a professor in the department from 1905-1925. The faculty member is selected by the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, submitted to the chancellor of the university and the president of the university system for review, and approved by the Board of Regents.

"We are excited to select Dr. Batelaan for his remarkable scientific contributions," Ken Bloom, chair and professor in the department, said.

Burton Evans Moore, front row left, with colleagues in the Department of Physics in 1905. The department was housed in Nebraska Hall until moved into Brace Laboratory later that year. Select/tap image to enlarge.

Batelaan's group studies the fundamental interaction between light, electrons and atoms, including theoretical analysis, simulation using supercomputers (HCC and XSEDE), and experiments. He is collaborating with colleague Cornelis "Kees" Uiterwaal on a Catalyst award-funded project, Quantum Business, Arts and Science for Society (Q-BASS).