Ronald E. Olson, Curators' Professor of Physics (Ph.D., Purdue University, 1967), employs quantum mechanical and semiclassical theories that are computationally intensive to determine cross sections in heavy particle collisions. Research is conducted on such varied systems as weakly-bound Rydberg atoms and anti-matter, to multiply-charged ions colliding with many- electron atoms. This research has direct relevance to accelerator development, magnetic fusion energy, and energy deposition by ion beams in radiotherapy.