Physicist to chair European scientific board

Baha Balantekin, Eugene P. Wigner Professor of Physics, has been elected chair of the Scientific Advisory Board for the European Centre for Theoretical Studies in Nuclear Physics and Related Areas at Trento, Italy.

This organization aims to facilitate in-depth research on topical problems at the forefront of contemporary developments in theoretical nuclear physics and related areas such as particle physics, astrophysics, and
condensed-matter physics, by arranging workshops and collaboration
meetings.

It also contributes to the training of the next generation of theorists through several programs aimed at graduate students. It is supported by the member states of the European Union.

Chairs of the advisory board are usually elected from a group of prominent theoretical physicists at European universities and laboratories.  Balantekin is the first chair employed by a U.S. institution.