Matthew Guthrie

Assistant Professor in Residence

Department of Physics

Since joining UConn in 2022, my work has centered on three overlapping roles:

1. I teach introductory physics and astronomy, including conceptual physics and the calculus-based engineering physics sequence. Much of my teaching work focuses on active learning, curriculum development, inclusive group work, and helping students connect physical ideas across different contexts.
2. My research examines how students learn physics, with particular interests in inclusive group work, accessibility and disability in STEM, and transfer of learning. I am part of the NSF-funded Courses to Careers project, which works with disabled physics students and instructors to identify and address barriers in physics education and careers. I also study how the Lagrangian formalism can connect topics across the undergraduate physics curriculum. This work led to my 2026 book, Demystifying Classical Particles, Fields, and Relativity Through the Lagrangian Formalism.
3. I direct UConn’s planetarium and observatory. After leading efforts to restore and modernize both facilities, I now oversee their use for undergraduate teaching, astronomical observing, student projects, and public programs. I am leading the modernization of UConn’s planetarium (built in 1955) and observatory (built in 1979) facilities, integrating technology like a new projector and computerized telescope control hardware.

Outside of my academic work, I like to spend my time cooking, traveling, or sleeping.

The link below leads to a PDF of my formal CV, updated regularly.

(CV)

Feel free to email me any time if you want to chat.

Education

• Ph.D., Physics, University of Texas, 2018
• B.Sc., Physics, Michigan Technological University, 2011

Experience

• 2022-present: Assistant Professor in Residence, Department of Physics, University of Connecticut
• 2020-2022: Adjunct Professor, Three Rivers College, University of Central Florida, University of Connecticut
• 2018-2020: Postdoctoral Fellow, University of Central Florida
• 2014-2018: Assistant Instructor, University of Texas