Guggilla Working to Shape the Future of Physics Education
AAMU Physicist Elected to Editorial Board of Effective Practices for Physics Programs
Dr. Padmaja Guggilla has reached a significant achievement with her election to the Editorial Board of Effective Practices for Physics Programs (EP3), marking a four-year term from 2024 to 2028.
Crafted by the American Physical Society (APS) Best Practices for Undergraduate Physics Programs (BPUPP) Task Force, the EP3 Guide is designed to help leaders in physics departments create plans and practices to apply to their institution’s specific situations and needs. The EP3 Editorial Board, established by American Physical Society (APS) and the American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT) ensures the guide remains abreast of the latest research and disciplinary standards.
“I am truly honored and excited to take on this new role,” says Gugilla. “This unique opportunity is not usual for HBCU faculty to get. This will not only allow me to represent HBCUs and share my HBCU expertise, but also stress the importance of fostering collaboration and sharing best practices within the academic community.”
Guggilla, a distinguished Professor of Physics brings with her a wealth of experience. With over 70 published contributions and securing nearly $15 million in research funding, her impact in academia is profound. She is an alumna of the University and has worked at AAMU for 15 years.
“The best part of my job at AAMU has always been the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on both students and the broader scientific community,” says Gugilla. “Serving as Associate Dean of Student Success for CETPS and Chairperson of the Department of Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics has allowed me to help students thrive academically and personally. Witnessing their growth and success has been incredibly rewarding.”
Driven by a lifelong curiosity about the natural world, Guggilla's journey into physics has been one of passion and dedication. Her appointment to the EP3 Editorial Board is a personal milestone, aligning perfectly with her mission to foster excellence in physics education and make a tangible difference in the field.
“This new position signifies a commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in physics education,” Guggilla stated. “I aim to leverage my experiences to support physics departments in enhancing their programs and increasing enrollments, contributing to the collective effort to shape the future of physics education in the nation.”
Guggilla has a Bachelor of Engineering degree from Osmania University, a master’s in electrical and electronics engineering from the University of Alabama in Huntsville and earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Physics at AAMU in 2007.