Dr. Melville Ulmer

Professor

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Biography

Mel Ulmer is a professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Northwestern University. With a PhD from the University of Wisconsin acquired in 1970, he has established himself as a key figure in observational astrophysics and technology development. His research primarily concentrates on understanding clusters of galaxies, tidal disruption events, and variable Active Galactic Nuclei (AGNs). In addition, Ulmer focuses on improving coronagraphs utilized for exoplanet imaging and supervises the analysis of archival data related to this field. His work extends into technology development, where he specializes in materials such as magnetic smart materials and shape memory alloys, with applications in deployable space optics and adjustable thin-walled X-ray optics. Ulmer has significantly contributed to the Oriented Scintillation Spectrometer Experiment (OSSE) on the Compton Gamma Ray Observatory, facilitating essential research opportunities in astrophysics.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

— Present

Northwestern University • Evanston, IL

Leading research and education in observational astrophysics and technology development.

Awards

#

Alan Berman Research Publication Award

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Fellow

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Fellow

Requirements for Northwestern University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Overall
Required:7
Prerequisites
U.S. Bachelor's degree or equivalent
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Transcripts
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Statement of purpose
  • Resume/CV
  • TOEFL/IELTS scores (if applicable)
Specialization Notes

Standard PhD requirements for TGS departments including Chemistry, Physics, and Sociology.