John Mason PhD

Biography

Re-appointed July 2025 – Term expires June 2027.

John Mason discovered Western years ago while considering a career as a college professor and thinking about where to live and teach. When his first postdoctoral position ended, a job opening for a Physics professor at Western appeared, and he joined the faculty.

A major highlight of Mason’s teaching career has been mentoring students on senior seminar projects, an experience that continually brings new learning opportunities. Professionally, Mason has contributed to the broader scientific pursuit of knowledge through research on potential experimental signals of new physics “Beyond the Standard Model.” He is also proud to have played a role in developing the Engineering program at Western.

Mason finds physics exciting because it offers an incredibly precise and accurate way of understanding the natural world. This discipline not only defines the limits of human knowledge but also illuminates paths for advancing that knowledge. Watching this understanding grow is a constant source of inspiration.

How did you discover Western?

I discovered Western years ago when I was considering becoming a college professor and thinking about where I’d like to live and teach. Happily, there was a job opening at Western for a Physics professor when my first postdoc ended, and the rest is history.

What are some of the highlights of your career?

A major highlight of my teaching career has been mentoring students working on senior seminar projects. I always learn something new. Professionally, I have enjoyed playing a role in the general scientific pursuit of new knowledge, through my work on possible experimental signals of new physics “Beyond the Standard Model.” I am also happy to have contributed to the development of the Engineering program here at Western.

What most excites you about your field?

Physics is an incredibly precise and accurate way of thinking about the natural world. What’s more interesting is that this way of thinking can very clearly characterize the limits of human knowledge as well as the ways to progress that knowledge forward. It is exciting to see that knowledge grow constantly.

What is your favorite thing about the Gunnison Valley?

Gunnison is a great place to work, play and raise a family. I just like living here.