Allen Landers, PhD
Short Bio
Allen L. Landers is professor and chair of the Department of Physics at Auburn University. His research is in experimental atomic, molecular and optical physics, with an emphasis on synchrotron-based investigations of fundamental atomic and molecular dynamics.
His work focuses on fragmentation processes, electron correlation and coincidence measurement techniques that provide detailed insight into multi-particle interactions following photon and charged-particle impact.
As chair, he leads departmental strategic planning, faculty development and academic program initiatives while supporting growth in interdisciplinary teaching and research. He earned both his B.S. and Ph.D. in physics from Kansas State University.
Education
PhD Kansas State University 1999
BS Kansas State University 1993
Professional Experience
- Professor and Chair, Department of Physics, Auburn University
- Professor, Department of Physics, Auburn University
- Associate Professor, Department of Physics, Auburn University
- Assistant Professor, Department of Physics, Auburn University
Innovation
Dr. Landers’ research program centers on experimental studies of atomic and molecular processes driven by photon and charged-particle interactions. Using synchrotron radiation and advanced detection systems, his work examines molecular fragmentation dynamics, electron correlation, and energy redistribution following ionization.
A defining aspect of this research is the development and application of multi-particle coincidence measurement techniques, which enable kinematically complete characterization of reaction pathways. These approaches provide insight into fundamental AMO dynamics and contribute to broader understanding of photoionization, molecular breakup mechanisms and correlated electron motion.
Engagement
Dr. Landers supports outreach and educational initiatives through departmental and college activities that promote physics awareness and student engagement.
His contributions include participation in public science events, support for K-12 engagement efforts and collaboration with college-level outreach programs that expand access to STEM learning opportunities.
Honors and Awards
- SEC Academic Leadership Development Program Fellow, SEC Universities, 2016-2017
- Most Outstanding Professor, Auburn Physics, 2013 and 2016
- Young Faculty Scholar, College of Sciences and Mathematics, Auburn University, 2015
- Auburn University Award for Excellence in Outreach, 2014
- Eugene Clothiaux Outstanding Faculty Award, Department of Physics, Auburn University, 2014
- Dean’s Award for Outstanding Outreach, College of Sciences and Mathematics, Auburn University, 2013
- Auburn University Outreach Scholar, 2012-2013
- Howard Earl and Carolyn Taylor Carr Endowed Professorship, Auburn University, 2011-2020
- Dean’s Award for Outstanding Teaching, College of Sciences and Mathematics, Auburn University, 2006
Professional Service
Dr. Landers has served as chair of the Department of Physics at Auburn University since 2020, following prior service as the department’s Graduate Program Officer.
His service spans the department, college and university, as well as professional peer review activities for journals and funding agencies.
In his leadership role, Dr. Landers has supported sustained departmental growth in faculty hiring, research activity and instructional reach. He has helped advance curriculum development efforts, including cross-college instructional initiatives designed to better serve non-major student populations and emerging interdisciplinary programs.
He has also worked to strengthen the department’s research and academic infrastructure during a period of program expansion.
Teaching and Curriculum Development
Dr. Landers has taught a range of undergraduate and graduate physics courses spanning introductory service courses through advanced major and graduate offerings. His teaching emphasizes conceptual understanding supported by experimental and analytical perspectives.
He has also played a leadership role in curriculum development, including initiatives that expand and modernize physics instruction for diverse student populations and support cross-college programs.
These efforts have contributed to the evolution of service-course pathways and interdisciplinary instructional offerings within the department.
