Jeffrey D. Kochanski
New Kensington, PA 15068
acy9i1@r.postjobfree.com
EDUCATION
Master of Science, QPA: 3.39
Major: Physics
University of Pittsburgh, August 1987
Physics Comprehensive Exam: Passed - May 1987
Bachelor of Science, QPA: 3.76 MAGNA CUM LAUDE
Major: Physics
Minor: Mathematics
University of Pittsburgh, April 1986
Teacher Certification: Physics, General Science, Math Slippery Rock University, May 1995
Computer Proficiencies: JAVA, VisualBasic, Fortran, C++, UNIX, Windows, Excel, Mathematica, MS-Word, Lotus, WebCT, Blackboard, "D2L", MyMathLab, PowerPoint, Microsoft Programs
INDUSTRIAL EXPERIENCE
Research Assistant: University of Pittsburgh
Nuclear Physics Lab - High Energy Ion Beam Study Group Operated a 2MeV Van de Graaff accelerator for
experiments on ion channeling through SiC crystals. Performed daily maintenance of the accelerator and the associated beamline. Constructed and installed a new beamline and adjusted the magnet for deflection at various angles. Performed many studies on radiation damage in metals. Monitored radiation levels in the lab; Computer processed experimental data; Analyzed gases using a mass spectrometer; Constructed lab
apparatus using various wood and metal shop machinery; Characterized crystal structure through X-ray diffraction; Maintained an ultrahigh vacuum system and cryogenic system.
Research Engineer: Alcoa Technical Center
Surface Technology Division
Responsible for all aspects of designing chemical
vapor deposition experiments with SiC and TiB2,
operating the CVD system, and analysis of the
coatings. Computed theoretical phase diagrams using several thermodynamics computer programs. Performed various studies on the physical and magnetic properties of hard drive computer memory disks.
Improved magnetic recording characteristics by studying magnetic moment, coercivity, retentivity, and hysteresis data which I obtained through vibrating sample magnetometry. Utilized Fourier spectrum
analysis of signal pulses to reveal characteristics of the recording media. Reduced friction between the disk and the recording head by analyzing various thin film coatings through wear-testing lubricated sample disks.
Chemist: P.P.G. Industries - Glass Research Lab
Operated a chemical vapor deposition system for the coating of glass with TiN. Duties included designing experiments, performing them, and analyzing the results. Tested the optical properties of the
coatings through ellipsometry, interferometry,
profileometry, and spectrophotometry. Optimized the refractive index and thickness of the TiN film so that most of the visible wavelengths would be transmitted with other parts of the spectrum reflected.
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
Math Instructor: Indiana University of Pa
Taught a variety of mathematics courses involving
algebra, logic, sets, geometry, statistics, probability, trig, calculus, and number theory. Worked on a committee to evaluate math courses for non-majors and initiate curriculum modifications. Co-sponsor of math and physics clubs.
Physics Instructor: Penn State University
Taught physics course emphasizing mechanics, motion, gravity, rotations, waves, and thermodynamics. Responsibilities included instructing students in class and lab, testing and grading, helping students individually, and developing the curriculum and
experiments.
Physics Instructor: University of Pittsburgh
Instructed students in class, demonstrated experiments, graded lab reports, tested students, and helped students individually with their problems. Also revised several of the laboratory experiments.
Math Teacher: Mt. Pleasant High School
Taught Algebra 1 and Pre-Algebra courses. Modified curriculum to meet the needs of special ed and at-risk students.
Physics Teacher: Kiski High School
Taught physics and advanced physics courses. Revised curriculum and developed several lab experiments.
Substitute Teacher: Various school districts
Daily substitute teacher of physics, chemistry, biology, science, and mathematics.
HONORS AND ASSOCIATIONS
Society of Physics Students; Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society Sigma Pi Sigma Physics Honor Society; Provost's Scholars Program; Kappa Delta Pi Education Honor Society; Dean's List Each Term
ACTIVITIES/INTERESTS
Little League Baseball Coach and Umpire; Youth Sports Organizer; Y.M.C.A. Volunteer; Big Brothers
Volunteer; Scientific Lectures; Amateur Astronomer; Science Fiction Literature; Chess