Dr. Chris Jones arrived as Professor of Physics and Chemistry in Fall of 2024. When asked why he decided to make the move to CIU, Jones explains, “CIU is serious about integrating faith and learning as it prepares students with academic rigor, especially in science courses.”

Dr. Chris Jones arrived as Professor of Physics and Chemistry in Fall of 2024. When asked why he decided to make the move to CIU, Jones explains, “CIU is serious about integrating faith and learning as it prepares students with academic rigor, especially in science courses.”

He has three areas of professional focus: the integration of faith and learning, community outreach, and active learning teaching methods.

He is passionate about the integration of faith and learning. He states, “Engaging students in serious academic inquiry at a Christian university requires both academic and Biblical integrity.” Jones gives advice on the practical side of this topic through professional development workshops, academic conferences, and informally when colleagues are exploring methods to improve their efforts.

From the start of Jones’ career, he has been involved in a diverse array of community outreach events in science and mathematics such as National Chemistry Week, Rocket Blast-offs, Math & Science Festivals, Science Fairs, and STEM Days. When asked about his motivation, Jones points out, “Jesus told us that it is better to give than to receive. (Acts 20:35) Teaching students to give back some of their knowledge and enthusiasm for science and math is academically reinforcing, Biblically sound, and just plain fun!”

The pedagogy he strives to see implemented is one based on active learning rather than passive lecturing. This ranges from the utilization of best practices in technology to collaborative group projects. “Today’s students need a positive and encouraging learning environment that actively engages them in critical thinking” says Jones.

Chris Jones has a B.A. in Physics with a minor in mathematics from Erskine College. His Ph.D. is from UT — Austin in materials science. He has additional research experience at the University of Alabama and Argonne National Lab. He has heard talks from seven Nobel Prize winners and Stephen Hawking. As an undergraduate, he was fortunate to have his name on a paper with John Pople who won the Nobel Prize in 1998. The Nobel prize winner in 2019, John Goodenough, was on the dissertation committee for his PH.D. work.

Education

• B.A. in physics, Erskine College, Due West, SC
• Ph.D. in materials science, the University of Texas at Austin, TX