Professor Brett Isham

Teaching interests

Since August 1998 I have taught one lecture and one laboratory section per semester of introductory physics with calculus (first semester, second semester). My other teaching interests include electromagnetic theory, radio propagation, communications, signal processing, circuits, thermodynamics, atmospheric science, astronomy, mathematics, and computer programming. I addition, I have mentored six students in two student research projects. I also maintain a list of opportunities for student research internships.

Research interests

My main research interests lie in the exploration of space by radar. Most of my work has involved radar observations performed at the Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico and the EISCAT Observatory in northern Scandinavia in order to study the earth's ionosphere between 100 and 300 miles in altitude. The work is a mixture of engineering and physics, and involves programming and operation of large radar systems, processing of the radar data, and analysis and publication of the results. The goal is to better understand the physics of the electrons and ions in the ionosphere and their interaction with radio waves. Applications include remote sensing, communication and navigation systems, spacecraft systems, energy production, and plasma astrophysics.

The Arecibo observatory in Puerto Rico.
The EISCAT observatory in Norway.

Publications and presentations

Lists of selected publications and presentations are included on the pages devoted to the projects listed below. A complete list of publications is included in my CV.


Research projects

Ionospheric interactions (español): My main research project involves the study of the interaction between high frequency radio waves and ionospheric electron and ion turbulence on time scales of 1 to 100 milliseconds (1/1000 to 1/10 seconds), and the subsequent transition to macroscopic structured irregularities. Natural Langmuir waves: I am active in the search for correction terms in the equation which governs the propagation of electron Langmuir waves, in order to better understand their role in ionospheric physics and to enable the development of new radar remote sensing techniques.
Radar studies of the sun: I am collaborating in an effort to obtain support for the construction of a radar with which to study the atmosphere of the sun. Other atmospheric research projects: I have been involved in several other projects related to atmospheric research.

Student research projects

Ionospheric interactions: Two students are using computers to process and display scientific radar data while learning about space science and space technology. Electronic circuits (español): Two students are involved in the design and construction of electronic circuits which demonstrate principles having important applications in science and engineering.

Other projects

Outreach: It is important to share scientific results with the public and to promote a broader understanding of what science is, of what it is not, and of what it is capable of contributing to modern society. Habitat conservation: I am interested in discovering and protecting the wild areas of our planet, for our enjoyment, health, and survival; to ensure our legacy to our grandchildren; and to fulfill our obligation to the other creatures with which we share the earth.
Genealogy: I have made several trips to Europe to find the villages of my ancestors and to learn more about who they were and how they lived. Parenthood: I have wonderful daughter named Linnea, with whom I spend as much time as possible.

Opportunities for student research internships.

I receive research support from a variety of sources.

How much time do I spend on this stuff?

Contact information (español).

What is science?

The Professor from Esser

Copyright (©) 2000. All rights reserved.