Biography
Professor James Borgardt came to Juniata in 1998 from the University of Arizona, where he was an Instructor in Physics. He earned his Ph.D. and M.S. in Physics from the University of Arizona, and Bachelor of Science degrees in Physics, and Mathematics, with a minor in Global Peace and Security from the University of California at Santa Barbara. At Juniata, he is the Chair of the Physics Department, and Chair of the Baker Advisory Board for Peace and Conflict Studies. He has taught courses principally in the Physics Department, and also in Peace and Conflict Studies (PACS). He has a demonstrated commitment to interdisciplinary work, including courses supporting Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) efforts, having co-taught courses with faculty in Anthropology, Biology, Education, Environmental Science, History, PACS, Philosophy, and Psychology. He has also twice served as the interim Director of Health Professions, and as the Director of the Stewards of Diversity, supporting EDI initiatives.
Dr. Borgardt specializes in nuclear forensics and radiation detection. He has contributed to global security efforts through his involvement in initiatives such as the Galaxy Serpent tabletop exercises, which brought together over 30 nations to strengthen nuclear forensics capabilities. His research focuses on passive radiation detection and has led to collaborations with international organizations, enhancing practices for managing radioactive materials. He is also deeply committed to interdisciplinary teaching and advancing equity in STEM fields. He co-leads courses that integrate physics with environmental science, psychology, and social justice, offering students a broad perspective on how science intersects with societal issues. As a former Fellow at John Jay College of Criminal Justice and a member of the SEA Change Project Advisory Board, he works to promote inclusivity in science, particularly advocating for underrepresented groups in physics and securing grants to support these efforts.
In addition to his teaching and research, Dr. Borgardt is actively involved in mentoring students and supporting his department. As a visiting scientist at Pacific Northwest National Laboratories, he led student research teams in radiation detection funded by a Department of Energy grant. He has also co-authored the "Toolkit for Departments Under Threat" with the American Institute of Physics, providing guidance for physics departments facing administrative challenges. Dr. Borgardt’s dedication to his students and colleagues, as well as his contributions to the scientific community, continue to shape his career at Juniata College.