Micheal Kahangirwe

Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD) equation of state at finite baryon density; phase transitions; lattice-informed extrapolation schemes; neutron-stars, mergers, and nuclear astrophysics; and nuclear cyberinfrastructure development.

Post Doc Research Associate - Kent State University - Kent, Ohio, USA

(2025-09)

• Develop unified nuclear equation of state models bridging heavy-ion collisions and neutron star physics.
• Contribute to MUSES cyberinfrastructure for dense matter modeling.
• Collaborate across multi-institutional nuclear theory teams integrating lattice QCD and astrophysical constraints.

Adjunct Instructor - Stark State College - Akron, Ohio, USA

(2026-07 - 2026-08)

• Teaching General physics II, College Physics II w/Algebra, PHY122

Graduate Teaching Assistant, Department of Physics - University of Houston - Texas, USA

(2021-01 - 2025-08)

• Led laboratory sessions and tutored students at the Physics Learning Center.
• Graded exams, assignments, and assisted professors with classroom instruction.
• Provided research guidance to undergraduate students.

Teaching Assistant (NuPEERS), 3-Day Nuclear Summer School - Dillard University - Louisiana, USA

(2024-06-12 - 2024-06-16)

• Assisted during lectures on nuclear theory and led lab/homework sessions for undergraduates.
• Assisted professors with class management.

Graduate Research Assistant - University of Houston - Texas, USA

(2021-08 - 2025-08)

• Developed theoretical models to address problems in nuclear physics.
• Contributed to building MUSES cyber-infrastructure code for heavy-ion and neutron star equations of state.
• Developed open-source software for calculating the QCD Equation of State at finite density.
• Presented research findings in group meetings, workshops, and conferences.
• Mentored undergraduate and graduate students on research projects.

Teaching Assistant, Physics Department - Makerere University - Uganda

(2017-08 - 2018-08)

• Instructed undergraduate students in Physics and Mathematics.
• Conducted office hours and provided academic support through the Physics Learning Center.

Physics and Mathematics Teacher (High School) - Kisubi School - Uganda

(2018-02 - 2018-08)

• Designed and delivered lesson plans in Physics and Mathematics.
• Supervised laboratory activities and promoted critical thinking in students.

Internship - Civil Aviation Authority (C.A.A.) Uganda - Entebbe International Airport, Uganda

(2016-05 - 2016-08)

• Gained hands-on experience with airport maintenance, and troubleshooting systems such as X-ray security screening, Air traffic control, and airfield ground lighting.

Ph.D. in Physics (Ph.D. + MSc) - Physics - University of Houston (2020-08 - 2025-08)

Master of Science in High Energy Physics - High Energy Physics - ICTP-East African Institute for Fundamental Research, University of Rwanda (2018-08 - 2020-07)

Bachelor of Science in Physics and Mathematics - Physics and Mathematics - Makerere University (MAK) (2014-08 - 2017-05)