Casey E. Berger
Assistant Professor of Physics
Associations
Physics and Astronomy
Gender and Sexuality Studies
About
Ph.D (Physics), The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
B.S. (Physics), The Ohio State University
B.S. (Film and Television Production) and B.A. (Philosophy), Boston University
My research interests are in computational and data science methods in many-body quantum mechanics. I am currently working on developing and assessing methods for circumventing the sign problem in many-body quantum systems, as well as applying machine learning techniques to challenging data problems and approaching machine learning applications through a critical lens. I am also passionate about using equity-focused pedagogy to create a classroom where everyone can learn and grow. Before my career as a physicist, I worked in talent management in Hollywood.
Current Courses
Fall Semester 2025
Newtonian Mechanics
A rigorous study of Newtonian mechanics. Beginning with Newton's laws, the concepts of energy, momentum, and angular momentum are developed and applied to gravitational, harmonic, and rigid-body motions. Prerequisite(s): MATH 106 and PHYS 107 or 109.
Introductory Quantum Mechanics
An investigation of the basic principles of quantum mechanics in the Schrödinger representation and the application of these principles to tunneling, the harmonic oscillator, and the hydrogen atom. Basic theoretical concepts such as Hermitian operators, Ehrenfest's theorem, commutation relations, a…
Senior Thesis
An independent study program for students working on a research problem in a field of interest, culminating in the writing of a senior thesis. Students register for PHYS 457 in the fall semester. Majors writing an honors thesis register for both PHYS 457 and 458.