For more than 150 years, Columbia physicists have advanced groundbreaking discoveries, educated leading scientists, and helped shape physics as both a field of study and a profession. The Department of Physics is deeply grateful for the continued generosity of alumni, friends, and faculty who make such innovation and discovery possible.
Your gift supports critical research and has the ability to:
- Create opportunities for the next generation of young scientists by supporting talented early-stage researchers as they begin and build their scientific careers.
- Assist the development of novel technologies that are essential to improving lives, preparing for the future, and uncovering the underlying principles of the physical world.
- Enable the recruitment of world-renowned scientists, bringing together some of the most creative minds in science who are committed to pushing the boundaries of cutting-edge scientific knowledge.
- Encourage new approaches in physics and its intersections with other fields, including the natural sciences, engineering, mathematics, materials science, medicine, and technological innovation.
"A glimpse of this wonder can be the reward of a lifetime."
- Columbia faculty member and renowned physicist C.S. Wu on the thrill of scientific discovery
Key Priorities for Development
If you are interested in donating to or sponsoring targeted ventures, the following have been identified as especially important in supporting the department’s top objectives. For information about specific projects, visit our gift planning page.
Innovative Research Support: Continued investment in fundamental science is essential to drive the scientific innovations of tomorrow. For generations, Columbia Physics faculty have led pioneering research that deepens our understanding of the universe. To help us continue this tradition, please consider investing in faculty endowments, research expenses, and funding for research staff.
Graduate Student Studies: Sustained support for doctoral students is vital in attracting and empowering emerging scholars with the creativity and vision to challenge convention and advance the field in meaningful ways. Contributions towards fellowships, scholarships, and improved student spaces are always appreciated.
Undergraduate Field Experience: Laboratory work, theoretical research, and other in-depth physics experiences can be invaluable in building technical skills, boosting confidence, and even launching careers. However, financial obstacles like housing, living expenses, and travel are barriers that can prevent many students from being able to pursue these options. With your support, we can make such opportunities more attainable.
If you’d like to contribute to one of the partnership paths above or are interested in other ways to get involved, please reach out to Ashley Delphia, Director of Finance and Administration ([email protected]). We’re always excited to explore new and innovative partnership opportunities!
See our existing partnerships in action
Department News & Announcements
We never tire of showcasing the accomplishments of our talented faculty, researchers, and students. Many of their projects and accolades would not have been possible without contributions from donors, grants, and other funding opportunities. We encourage you to learn more about these achievements and the impact they're having on STEM research.
An article in Quanta Magazine underscores Professor Alberto Nicolis's role in shaping a modern understanding of fluid dynamics
The annual Larkin Awards, which are administered out of the University of Minnesota, recognize "extraordinary contributions to theoretical physics"
Professor Tuts has been an integral part of the US ATLAS Collaboration for more than two decades while balancing numerous responsibilities as a valued member of the CU Physics faculty
How to contact us
Questions about giving to Columbia Physics? Contact Ashley Delphia, Director of Academic Administration and Finance, at [email protected]