Current Grad Students in Physics

Sarah E. Spielman

Sarah E. Spielman received her B.S. in Physics in 2021 from Denison University. As an undergraduate, her research focused on high-precision laser spectroscopy of negative ions. As a Ph.D. student at Bryn Mawr College, she is currently working with Dr. Michael Noel, studying dipole-dipole interactions in ultracold Rydberg atoms. Her current research interests combine both experimental and computational techniques to investigate the thermodynamic evolution of quantum many-body systems. In her free time, Sarah enjoys hiking, swimming, playing her guitar, and cooking.

Stefan Masiuk

Stefan Masiuk earned his BA in Physics from The College of New Jersey in 2019 and his MS in Mechanical Engineering from Drexel University in 2023. Throughout his academic career, Stefan has focused his research efforts on experimental optics with a keen interest in light-matter interactions, ranging from spectroscopic techniques to lithographic thin-film fabrication. Before coming to Bryn Mawr, Stefan worked as a Process Engineering within the optics and photonics manufacturing industry. As a graduate student at Bryn Mawr, he hopes to continue his work in the realm of experimental optics. Beyond his academic pursuits, Stefan enjoys reading, kickboxing, going to the beach, and playing a variety of strategy games.

Ryan Rauenzahn

Ryan Rauenzahn received his B.S. degrees in Physics and Mathematics from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania in 2019 and his M.S. in Physics from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 2021. His prior research focused on plasma physics, particularly turbulence and magnetized plasmas, with strong connections to astrophysical plasma processes and stellar evolution. Before entering the program at Bryn Mawr, he worked for several years as a scientist in the explosives industry. As a graduate student at Bryn Mawr, Ryan aims to study plasma turbulence and apply these insights to astrophysical environments. Outside of his academic work, he values spending time with family and friends, and enjoys golfing, aviation, and applied electronics.