Alexandra Terrana, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Accomplishments
- Ph.D. from York University; M.Sc. from the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics; B.Sc. from McMaster University
- Vanier Graduate Scholarship from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada
- Author of several publications in theoretical physics, teaching, and learning
- Numerous presentations at national and international conferences in physics and education
While obtaining her Ph.D. in Physics from the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics at York University, Alexandra Terrana conducted research in cosmology and gravitation, motivated by the mysteries of dark matter and dark energy. Using analytical methods and numerical simulations, her work illuminates the best basis for models of our universe on the largest scales. She has also pursued science education research, including student learning effectiveness in online environments.
Professor Terrana has experience in teaching a broad range of Mathematics and Science, and thrives on the challenge to make seemingly complex material accessible and exciting for students. Her focus in the classroom is on students' development of skills to break down and solve problems.
At Minerva University, Professor Terrana teaches and develops the first-year Formal Analyses Cornerstone and the Physics of Life Core Course. She also coordinates the Cornerstone Curriculum, including the incoming-student preparation program and the first-year Structured Study Sessions. She is passionate about providing students with the academic support they need to thrive at Minerva.