NATCHITOCHES – Dr. Damien Tristant, assistant professor of Physics and coordinator of the Physical Science Department at Northwestern State University, has been appointed chair of the Physics Section of the Louisiana Academy of Sciences (LAS).
In this statewide leadership role, Tristant joins an active group of Louisiana scientists and academicians dedicated to advancing science, research and education across disciplines. As Physics Chair, his responsibilities include coordinating statewide physics activities, helping to organize sessions for the annual LAS conference, reviewing research submissions and fostering collaborations among Louisiana’s universities and research institutions.
Founded in 1927, the Louisiana Academy of Sciences is the longest-running scientific organization in the state. Its mission is to promote scientific research, support science education, and provide a forum for the exchange of ideas among Louisiana’s scientific community.
The Academy will celebrate its 100th anniversary at the Centennial Convening of the Louisiana Academy of Sciences, to be held March 6–7, 2026, at Centenary College in Shreveport. Registration for the event is now open: https://web.cvent.com/event/43be42cd-7c15-451d-aba5-7e1446108fb4/summary
Dr. Christopher Lyles, director of NSU’s School of STEM, also serves as a member-at-large on the executive council of the Louisiana Academy of Sciences, further strengthening NSU’s representation and engagement at the state level.
“At NSU, my goal is to continue pursuing excellence in both teaching and research,” Tristant said. “Our faculty are deeply engaged in undergraduate research, guiding students through every step of the scientific process—from developing research questions and building foundational knowledge to conducting experiments, analyzing data and presenting their results. They also help students strengthen essential academic skills such as scientific writing and oral presentation.”
One of Tristant’s students, Shae Wetzel of Pitkin, recently published her research “Charge transfer during sodium-ion intercalation in graphite-like anodes as determined by Raman spectroscopy” in Carbon Trends, an international scientific journal.
“I hope to extend these opportunities beyond our department and inspire more students to take part in meaningful research experiences,” Tristant said. “I also aim to increase collaboration between institutions and industry to open new gateways for students.”
Through his leadership in the Louisiana Academy of Sciences, Tristant plans to expand opportunities for NSU students and faculty to present their research, connect with statewide scientific communities, and strengthen NSU’s visibility as a center of innovation and learning in the sciences.
To learn more about NSU’s School of STEM, visit https://www.nsula.edu/academics/colleges-and-schools/school-of-stem//