Meet Assistant Professor of Engineering & Physics Jonathan Dawson, Ph.D., known by his students as “Dr. D.” Dawson is in his second year of teaching physics courses at Whitworth like Introductory Physics, Advanced Classical Dynamics and Introduction to Cosmos. Just this month (January 2025), a research study for which he was the lead co-author was published in the prestigious “Biophysical Journal”!
Q. What drew you to your academic discipline?
A. I got interested in physics when, in eighth grade, I read this book which my parents had gifted me, “A Brief History of Time” by the renowned physicist Stephen Hawking. I was fascinated by the idea of time travel and spacetime being intertwined. Fast forward a few years, and, as a summer student, I was introduced to the field of biophysics. I was blown away by the application of physics in biology. My current research involves using physics to understand how dividing cells give rise to collective behavior, like a flock of birds or a school of fish.
Q. Tell us about a fun class you teach.
A. I love all the classes that I have taught so far at Whitworth. But if I really had to pick one fun class, it would be Introductory Physics. I get excited about showing live, in-class demonstrations to my students. These demonstrations are fun, but more so, they make theoretical concepts of physics more relatable to my students and their everyday life experiences.
Q. What advice would you give to a student who’s interested in studying your discipline at Whitworth?
A. Pursuing an undergraduate degree in engineering and physics can be challenging. But at the same time, it is very exciting and it opens up diverse career opportunities. You have the ability to impact the world! My number one advice is: Stay curious. Participating in summer research is a great way to try out new things. Secondly, be mentored by a faculty member. This could have such a meaningful impact on your life.
Q. What’s something great about your Whitworth department?
A. Our students and the faculty! I love seeing our students working with their professors on exciting, impactful research. We want to equip our students to be scientists and engineers who are not only good at what they do but also think critically and choose wisely as they honor God, follow Christ and serve humanity.
JUST FOR FUN…
Q. What might your students be surprised to learn about you?
A. I speak four languages, and I have lived in three countries representing three different continents.
Q. What’s your favorite spot on campus and why?
A. Mind & Hearth cafe. I like their chai and chocolate cake (warmed up, please), and just the whole ambience. Every now and then, I see one of my students, and I just love saying hello to them and catching up with them.
Q. What artists or musical genre do you play when you need a pick-me-up?
I like South Indian classical and country. Currently, Michael James’ album “Closer to the Fire” is playing on my playlist. Thanks to my wife, I am developing a liking for Western classical music.
Worth a Look 