Professor Gary Varner joined the UH Mānoa faculty in 2005, however, his work with UH and the physics and astronomy department dates back to the early 1980s. Throughout his career, he made significant and critical contributions to numerous physics experiments worldwide.

“Gary was not only a brilliant scientist but also a caring individual, always extending support and kindness,” said friends and colleagues from the Physics and Astronomy Department. “We will forever cherish his important role in our endeavors.”

UH Manoa Physics Professor Susanne Still and a collaboration team from Simon Fraser University received funding from a joint grant given by the Foundational Questions Institute (FQXI). In a letter of on August 3rd, 2023 of Physical Review Letters, the joint theory-and-experiment effort verifies that engines which are utilizing information to exploit non-equilibrium forces show significantly improved energy harvesting performance.

Professor John G. Learned, a world authority in particle astrophysics, is the recipient of the 2023 Yodh Prize award. The Yodh Prize recognizes a scientist whose research career has had a major impact on the understanding of cosmic rays. The Prize also invites the awardee to UCI for a public presentation, seminar and further festivities in the late Fall of 2023. Professor Learned has authored more than 300 publications and has ore than 47,000 citations. He has been a pioneer in launching a new field of particle astrophysics. Professor Learned said, “There is great satisfaction in being recognized by one’s peers for having a long and successful career in investigating the mysteries of physics.”

Retired University of Hawaiʻi physicist Michael Jones believes the film “Oppenheimer” will make people aware of the grave dangers of nuclear weapons on “The Converstation” with host Russell Subiono of Hawaii Public Radio. Dr. Jones hopes scientists will continue to do everything in their power to prevent the use of weapons of mass destruction.