Josh Frieman. Photo: Drew Reynolds/Courtesy University of Chicago Magazine
Fermilab and University of Chicago scientist Josh Frieman has been elected president of the Aspen Center for Physics. His three-year term began on July 9.
Founded in 1962, the Aspen Center for Physics promotes research in physics, astrophysics and related fields through a program of individual and collaborative research, summer workshops and winter conferences. Located in Aspen, Colorado, the center gives physicists a quiet yet stimulating place to work, either in groups or individually. Every year, more than 1,000 scientists from around the world participate in the center’s programs, carrying out cutting-edge research on fundamental questions about the physical universe.
The Aspen Center for Physics is governed by up to 80 elected members, including nine trustees. A member of the center, Frieman previously served as its vice president and as a trustee. As president, Frieman will oversee the affairs of the organization and work with the members and trustees to help set its strategic direction.
Members and officers of the Aspen Center for Physics volunteer their time to the organization’s operation.
Frieman is currently the head of the Fermilab Particle Physics Division and is a professor of Astronomy and Astrophysics at the University of Chicago. He led the Dark Energy Survey from 2010-18. A fellow of the American Physical Society, of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, and of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, he is currently chair of the American Physical Society Division of Astrophysics. He previously served on the Particle Physics Project Prioritization Panel of the High Energy Physics Advisory Panel, on the Astro 2010 Decadal Survey Committee, and on the Astronomy and Astrophysics Advisory Committee.