New Faculty Spotlight
The department is pleased to welcome Dr. Qiaoyi (Joey) Liu, who joined our faculty in Fall 2026 as a Teaching Assistant Professor. Joey’s appointment allocates 30% of his time to Physics Education Research (PER), where he joins the ranks of J.T. Laverty and the emeritus—but still very active—Dean Zollman in this vital field.
Joey brings a unique and robust background to the department. He earned his Bachelor’s degree at Case Western Reserve University before moving to The Ohio State University, where he completed both an M.S. and a Ph.D. in experimental Atomic, Molecular, and Optical (AMO) Physics.
Following his doctoral work, Joey pivoted his focus toward the future of pedagogy. He completed a postdoctoral research position in PER at the University of Colorado-Boulder under the mentorship of Heather Lewandowski, honing his skills in how students best internalize complex physical concepts.
Joey’s current research sits at the intersection of traditional science and modern digital tools. He explores how online learning platforms, interactive computer simulations, and generative artificial intelligence can be leveraged to advance physics education.
"I design, implement, and study technology-enhanced instructional strategies that promote students’ conceptual understanding and essential skills," Joey explains. "A key component of my work involves the use of research-based assessments to measure the impact of curricular changes and compare student learning outcomes across courses and institutions."
Ultimately, his work aims to improve physics instruction and support student learning at both the institutional and national levels.
Since arriving in Manhattan, Joey has hit the ground running. He is already establishing collaborative partnerships with faculty in both the Physics and Mathematics departments at K-State, as well as building research ties with other universities. Students will be seeing much more of him soon, as he prepares to take over the Engineering Physics 2 course next fall.
Outside of the classroom, Joey is a proud and vocal Swiftie, and his timing for joining the department couldn't have been better. He is thrilled to be so close to "Chiefs Kingdom," the home turf of Taylor Swift’s fiancé, Travis Kelce, and the Kansas City Chiefs. Whether he’s analyzing data or sporting his favorite merch, Joey is happy to be in a place where the physics of the football field and the magic of the Eras Tour feel closer than ever. He’s ready to make the most of his time in the Heartland—no "Champagne Problems" here!
We are thrilled to have his expertise in both AMO physics and physics education research as we continue to evolve our curriculum. Welcome to the team, Joey!