Dr. Brendan Mullan

Assistant Professor

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Biography

Brendan Mullan is an Associate Teaching Professor and Director of Undergraduate Laboratories in the Department of Physics at Carnegie Mellon University. He focuses on guiding the ongoing evolution of experimental physics courses using data-informed practices rooted in physics education research. Mullan has developed and taught a variety of courses in astronomy, astrobiology, and physics at several universities, incorporating innovative elements such as video games, narrative storytelling, and inquiry-based learning. He is also recognized as a National Geographic Science Communicator and has received accolades from the British Council, NASA, and the Creative Nonfiction Foundation for his contributions to science communication. His research interests include star clusters and their tidal debris, the implications of population growth and energy use, and astrobiology within the Anthropocene. Mullan has co-authored multiple publications in reputable journals, engaging in collaborative research that explores stellar populations and the infrared search for extraterrestrial civilizations. His distinguished teaching and research contributions have earned him several accolades, including the Finkelhor Distinguished Lecturer award from Point Park University in 2023 and recognition as a National Geographic Emerging Explorer in 2013.

Research Interests

Experimental Physics Education Astrobiology Star Clusters Stellar Populations Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence

Experience

Associate Teaching Professor

2023-01-01 — Present

Carnegie Mellon University • Pittsburgh, PA

Director of Undergraduate Laboratories in the Department of Physics.

Associate Professor

2021-01-01 — 2023-01-01

Point Park University • Pittsburgh, PA

Senior Curriculum Assessment Strategist

2022-01-01 — 2023-01-01

Point Park University • Pittsburgh, PA

Director Core Curriculum

2022-01-01 — 2023-01-01

Point Park University • Pittsburgh, PA

Assistant Professor

2015-01-01 — 2021-01-01

Point Park University • Pittsburgh, PA

Assistant Director, Honors Program

2017-01-01 — 2022-01-01

Point Park University • Pittsburgh, PA

Co-Founder Director Science

2015-01-01 — 2021-01-01

Wrinkled Brain Project •

Director

2014-01-01 — 2015-01-01

Buhl Planetarium Observatory • Pittsburgh, PA

Research Scientist Educator

2013-01-01 — 2021-01-01

Blue Marble Space Institute of Science •

Awards

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Finkelhor Distinguished Lecturer

2023-01-01
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Creative Nonfiction Science Story Fellow

2020-01-01
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Center Inclusive Excellence Splashmaker Year

2018-01-01
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Honorary Membership in Alpha Chi Honor Society

2016-01-01
#

Emerging Explorer

2013-01-01
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Science Communication National Champion

2012-01-01
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Fellow

2009-01-01
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Zaccheus Daniel Fellow

2010-01-01
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Founders Award

2007-01-01

Requirements for Carnegie Mellon University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.5
GRE General
Verbal
Required:158
Quantitative
Required:149
Analytical Writing
Required:4
Overall
Required:4
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Psychology or related field Research experience/publications
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Transcripts
  • GRE scores (optional but reported in profile)
  • English Proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo)
Specialization Notes

Admission is extremely competitive with no strict GPA cut-offs; holistic review is used.