Read full interview at U-M Public Engagement and Impact

One of this year’s Road Scholars is David Gerdes, Arthur Thurnau Professor, professor of physics and astronomy, and chair of the physics department. He studies objects in the outer solar system such as the Kuiper Belt and Oort Cloud. His research has also looked at the origins and evolution of the universe.

Arthur F. Thurnau Professor of Physics; Chair of Physics Department

What interested you in the Road Scholar tour?

I’ve lived in Michigan for more than 20 years and been to many parts of the state, including the U.P., but it’s usually been as a tourist. I know much less about the state as a place where people live, work, struggle with problems, and try to grow communities and businesses. So I really want to know about the forces that shape Michigan such as government, manufacturing, and people working to bring Detroit back. I am looking forward to going out and not talking for once and just listening and absorbing.
– David Gerdes

The Michigan Road Scholars Tour — an annual five-day traveling seminar that takes U-M faculty through the state — increases mutual knowledge and understanding between the university and the people and communities of Michigan.

You can keep up with the happenings on the tour May 6–10 by following #MIRoadScholars on Twitter.

Read full interview at U-M Public Engagement and Impact